In ancient times, Indians already used cardamom as a spice, but also for its medicinal properties. It was later exported along trade routes to Mesopotamia before being brought to Europe by Arab merchants. However, cardamom cultivation only began in the early 20th century to diversify coffee plantations.
According to some etymologists, the word “cardamom” originates from Indian and means “spice plant.”
Cardamom in Perfumery
Cardamom is a perennial plant that belongs to the Zingiberaceae family. It has long stems with elongated leaves forming a small bush that can reach up to 4 meters in height. Its fruits contain small green seeds, which are dried and then ground into a spice.
Cardamom thrives in tropical climates and is mainly cultivated in Southeast Asia in countries such as Guatemala, Nepal, Cambodia, and Thailand.
In perfumery, two species of cardamom are used: green cardamom (Elettaria Cardamomum) and brown cardamom (Amomum Subulatum).
Raw Material Derived from Cardamom
Cardamom plants are planted in July, and the fruits are harvested by hand from December to March. The seeds are then dried to enhance the development of specific aromatic molecules before being ground.
They are then steam-distilled for 5 to 6 hours to obtain cardamom essential oil.
This essential oil is rich in Eucalyptol and Terpenyl Acetate. Its price is moderate to low for a perfumery raw material but relatively high compared to other spices.
Cardamom from a Perfumer’s Perspective
Cardamom belongs to the spicy olfactory family but is classified as a cool spice with aromatic notes. It is used in both top and heart notes of fragrances. Although it pairs naturally with spicy accords, it also blends beautifully with floral, woody, or amber accords, adding a touch of freshness.
Green cardamom essential oil is highly volatile, with fresh, spicy, and aromatic notes reminiscent of eucalyptus and pine, along with a subtle, sparkling citrus touch.
Brown cardamom essential oil is also fresh and aromatic but spicier, more camphorated, with a subtly smoky, leathery note.
Some Perfumes around the Cardamom note
- Bulgari pour Homme – Bulgari – 1996
- Déclaration – Cartier – 1998
- Dzongkha – L’Artisan Parfumeur – 2006
- Hypnôse Homme – Lancôme – 2007
- In the City of Sin – By Kilian – 2012
- Cardamom Coffee – Lush – 2016
- Cardamom – Zara – 2018
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