Black sandalwood, known scientifically as Dalbergia melanoxylon, is a distinct variety from the more commonly known white sandalwood (Santalum album). It is primarily found in East Africa and is revered for its dark color and durability, making it popular in fine woodworking and craftsmanship, especially in musical instruments, carvings, and furniture.
The scent profile of black sandalwood is robust, with a rich, deep woody aroma that is less sweet compared to white sandalwood. Its fragrance is complex, featuring earthy tones with subtle hints of smokiness and often a slight peppery or leathery quality. This makes black sandalwood a favored ingredient in the fragrance industry, particularly for creating masculine or sophisticated, elegant perfumes and colognes. Its aroma is grounding and often used in aromatherapy to help reduce stress and anxiety, thanks to its soothing properties. Unlike white sandalwood, which is often utilized for its soft, creamy, and somewhat milky scent, black sandalwood's aroma is more intense and assertive, lending a unique and enduring quality to scented products.
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