Tonka fragrance, What does tonka bean smell like?, Origins of tonka bean in perfumery, The journey of tonka bean scent discovery, Characteristics of tonka bean aroma, Comprehensive guide to tonka bean fragrance
“Explore the alluring world of Tonka Bean fragrance with Scent Bunny. Dive deep into its origins, unique scent profile, and why it’s cherished in luxury wax melts. Discover what Tonka Bean truly smells like.”
What are Tonka beans and where do they come from?
Tonka bean is the seed of the catchily named Dipteryx odorata tree, or Coumarouna odorata, which is why it is also known as coumarin – the chemical isolate that is used in perfumery.
It’s native to South and Central America and a common ingredient in many fragrances. Its usage dates back to the late-19th century and the main producers today are Nigeria and Venezuela.
Tonka beans have been used for centuries in traditional South American medicine, where they were believed to have healing properties. The beans contain coumarin, a chemical compound that has been found to have anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties.
In perfumery and flavor industry tonka beans are widely used, it is a popular ingredient in perfumes, candles, and other scented products. It is also used as a flavoring in foods and drinks such as ice cream, tobacco, and liqueurs.
This edible, shrivelled black beans have a strong, sweet, and slightly spicy aroma. The beans are harvested from the tree, then dried and aged for several months before use.
How dose it smell?
The aroma of tonka beans can be described as complex and rich, with a combination of warm, sweet, and slightly woody notes. The most prominent aroma notes of tonka beans are:
Vanilla:
The aroma of tonka beans is often compared to vanilla, with a rich and sweet aroma that is both comforting and familiar.
Caramel:
Tonka beans have a caramel-like aroma that is warm, sweet, and slightly nutty. This note adds a depth and complexity to the aroma of tonka beans.
Almond:
Tonka beans have a nutty aroma that is reminiscent of almonds. This note adds a slightly sweet and buttery note to the aroma.
Cinnamon:
Tonka beans also have a spicy aroma that is similar to cinnamon. This note adds a warm and slightly spicy undertone to the aroma of tonka beans.
Woody:
Tonka beans also have a woody note that can be described as a dry, warm and slightly bitter, this note adds a grounding and earthy element to the aroma of tonka beans.
The aroma of tonka beans is often described as warm, comforting, and familiar, with a rich and complex aroma that is both sweet and slightly spicy.
It has a sweet aroma that is often likened to almond or vanilla, with undertones of tobacco that can lend a creamy, warm element to a fragrance composition.
It’s a scent that is ideal for those who appreciate complex and nuanced fragrances.
What do the experts say?
As perfumer Alienor Massenet explains, ‘tonka is warm and smooth – but unlike vanilla, it can remind you of hay. I love to use it because it’s big and powerful, very sensual. Used with an amber note, it creates a real addiction…’
Dior’s Perfumer-Creator François Demachy adds: ‘The tonka bean is a concentrate of sensations and aromas.
“The aroma of Tonka bean is like a warm embrace, enveloping you in a cocoon of comfort and pleasure.” – Jennifer Peace Rhind, aromatherapist and author
What are some products that contain tonka in its scent profile?
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Jo Malone London Tonka & Myrrh Cologne Intense
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Molton Brown Oudh Accord & Gold Eau de Parfum
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The Body Shop Almond Milk & Honey Body Butter
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Lush Lord of Misrule Shower Gel
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L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil
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Bath & Body Works Warm Vanilla Sugar Body Butter
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The Body Shop Shea Body Butter
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Burberry Brit Rhythm Eau de Toilette
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The Body Shop Vanilla Chai Shower Gel
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Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille Body Oil
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Lush Sleepy Body Lotion
What scent bunny products contain tonka in there scent profile?
Bunny Love – Reminiscent of Tonka and Myrhh. Rich, hand-harvested sap of the Namibian myrrh tree, mingling with the warm almond and lush vanilla notes of the tonka bean. Noble and intoxicating. Click here for product
Bunny Hotel – Experience The Decadent Aroma Of Madagascan Vanilla And Tonka Bean, Perfectly Blended With Soft Amber For A Truly Sumptuous Scent. Click here for product
Stormy Bunny – A refreshing blend of vibrant citrus lemon and bergamot entwines with fresh clean ozone, delicate jasmine flower and heliotrope accords resting on a bed of amber, tonka and tantalising musk’s. Click here for product
Indulgent Bunny – A creamy and indulgent blend of smooth white vanilla, deliciously spicy and rich entwined with sweet decadent amber, a warm base of Tonka, cedar and velvet musk underpins the blend. Click here for Product
Daydream Bunny – Sweet citrus notes blended with light florals & orris roots on a bed of sweet tonka & musk. Click here for Product
“So the next time you’re in the mood for a warm, cozy scent that will make you feel like you’re wrapped in a hug, give tonka a try. Whether it’s in a perfume, a candle, or a body lotion, you won’t be disappointed!”
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