‘Alternative’ Oud

There are two types of Oud in the dunya. There’s the so-called ‘oud’ of the auction and bazaar websites, which consists of low-grade agarwood oils diluted with DOP (dioctyl phthalate) and other highly toxic chemicals. This oil is known by its harsh leathery aroma, lack of coherence, linearity, utter lack of a spiritual dimension, and unharmonious dry-down.

I call it alternative oud. At best, it is an affordable substitute for premium oud oil. At worst, it defrauds you of the joy and spirituality of true oud oil while introducing deadly toxins into your body.

The second kind of oud is as rare as the first is common. It is the aroma of class and refinement you would smell if you got very close to the Sultan of Brunei, or the King of Bahrain. Sheer elegance and opulence mark its aromatic quality, as it is devoid of all harshness, leathery notes, and dull linearity. Much more than a costly fragrance, this oil possesses a spirituality that has been cherished by the messengers of God since time immemorial.

The prophet Solomon (peace be upon him) sings its praises in the Song of Songs, and prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) taught that Indian oud contains the cure for seven diseases.

If you are looking for the first type of oud, I am afraid I can’t be of much help. But if your search is for the second type of oud – then you have certainly come to the right place. Ahlan wa Sahlan wa Marhaban!