Cardamom

What does it smell like?

A fresh eucalyptus-like lift gives way to sweet, woody spice. It can be airy as well as warm.

What is it?

Green cardamom, Elettaria cardamomum, provides aromatic seeds used for perfumery materials.

The material

Seeds within cardamom capsules.

Where does it come from?

India is associated with its origin; Guatemala is a documented commercial oil source.

Types and forms

Essential oil, absolute, oleoresin and CO2 extract are distinct forms, not guarantees of identical smell.

Natural and manufactured materials

Natural extracts exist, and perfumers can also reconstruct or support this scent with aroma materials. A listed note is not proof of a particular natural ingredient, species or extraction method.

How it is produced or composed

Prepared seeds can be distilled or extracted, depending on the intended material.

Its role in perfume

Adds lift and warmth across the opening and heart; useful in florals and spicy-woody compositions. Pyramid positions are useful tendencies, not fixed rules or performance guarantees.

Material type

• Natural material and perfume note

Documented regions

• India
• Guatemala

Accords and scent relationships

• Spicy
• Pairings are editorial exploration ideas, not formula rules.