Clary Sage, also known as Salvia sclarea, is a large fragrant herb native to the northern Mediterranean Basin. It has a lengthy history as a herb, with its use dating back to the 4th century BCE. It was documented by Greek philosopher Theophrastus and 1st century CE Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder. In the world of fragrances, Clary Sage is often used as a fixative, an ingredient that binds and intensifies scent. It provides a sustainable, vegetarian, environmentally-friendly alternative to ambergris, which is produced by whales. Today, the cultivation of Clary Sage takes place mostly in Europe, Morocco, and the US, with large scale production concentrated in northeastern North Carolina.
Natural or Synthetic?
Clary Sage is primarily used in its natural form, extracted from the Salvia sclarea plant. Its oil, obtained through steam distillation, offers a distinct herbal and slightly floral aroma. Synthetic versions may be used to augment the natural oil or replicate its scent in more cost-effective formulations.
Fragrance Families Clary Sage Most Commonly Found In
Show fragrances that contain Clary Sage as a note