Clary Sage from France (Salvia Sclarea) Absolute

Clary Sage Absolute: Aromatic Complexity and Herbal Depth

What is Clary Sage Absolute?

Clary sage absolute is an exceptional raw material used in high-end perfumery. It is obtained by extraction with organic solvents from the flowering tops of the Salvia sclarea plant, cultivated primarily in France, a country renowned for its excellence in aromatic production.

This absolute offers a complex and multifaceted herbal aroma, deeply natural and highly valued by perfumers seeking fresh, green, amber, and slightly spicy tones.

Olfactory Profile of Clary Sage Absolute

The aroma of clary sage absolute is characterized by:

• Intense and fresh herbal : With a powerful top note reminiscent of freshly cut grass and hay.
• Woody and dry : With a soft base that provides structure and warmth.
• Amber and sweet : Thanks to sclareol , the component that gives it its characteristic sweet, warm and enveloping note.
• Green and slightly medicinal : Includes herbal tea-like nuances, lavender and camphor notes.
• Balsamic and mossy : Provides depth and a feeling of comfort in the dry down.

This aromatic richness makes the absolute a highly versatile option, ideal for both feminine and masculine compositions.

Key Aromatic Components

The following natural compounds are responsible for the absolute's distinctive aromatic profile:

• Linalool

Also present in lavender, it provides a subtle floral touch.

• Linalyl acetate

It gives a fresh, fruity and herbaceous character, present in the opening of the aroma.

• Sclareol

The star of the show. This diterpene, exclusive to clary sage, is responsible for the amber, sweet, and slightly woody notes. It's key to this absolute and is also a precursor to ambroxan, one of the most widely used synthetic compounds as a substitute for ambergris.

Due to its high sclareol content, clary sage absolute can be considered a natural substitute for ambergris, providing body and strength to any formula.

• Alpha-terpineol

It introduces a very subtle woody and spicy touch.

• Geraniol

It provides a light pink floral hue, softening the whole.

 

• Beta-caryophyllene

It provides a spicy, dry and earthy background, enriching the heart of the absolute.

Applications in Perfumery

This absolute is a powerful tool for:

• Add depth and persistence to floral or green notes.
• Suggest natural ambergris chords, without using animal ingredients.
• Enrich chypre, fougère, floral or balsamic fragrances.
• Create a feeling of naturalness, calm and warmth.

Conclusion

French clary sage absolute is a jewel of botanical perfumery. Its complex and balanced olfactory profile makes it an essential ingredient for perfumers seeking naturalness, elegance, and a unique aromatic character.

Thanks to its molecular richness, especially its sclareol content, this absolute not only shines on its own but also acts as an extraordinary natural fixing base. A must-have for any serious collection of aromatic ingredients.