Evernia prunastri, commonly known as oakmoss, is native to many regions in the Northern Hemisphere. It can be found in various parts of Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. Ours is sourced from France.

Oakmoss is a lichen, which is a unique organism resulting from the symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae. It typically grows on the bark of oak trees and other deciduous trees, such as beech and maple. Oakmoss is well-known for its earthy, woody, and mossy fragrance, making it a valuable ingredient in perfumery.

Oakmoss has a distinct and complex scent that is often described as earthy, damp, woody, and slightly musky. It is reminiscent of a forest floor after a rainfall. The aroma of oakmoss adds depth, character, and a sense of grounding to fragrances.

Oakmoss is highly valued for its fixative properties, meaning it helps to slow down the evaporation of other fragrance ingredients in a perfume composition, thus extending the longevity of the fragrance. It is a Base note found in our Earthy family.

Oakmoss is a versatile fragrance ingredient and is used in a wide range of perfume compositions. It is particularly popular in chypre fragrances, which are characterized by a blend of citrus top notes, floral middle notes, and oakmoss as a base note. Oakmoss also works well in woody, oriental, and mossy fragrances, adding a natural and earthy element.

Oakmoss is a popular ingredient in ritual perfumes, anointing oils, and sacred blends. It is often combined with other fragrant materials, such as resins, herbs, or floral essences, to create unique and meaningful scent profiles. These fragrances can be used to anoint oneself, sacred objects, or ritual tools, enhancing the ritual experience and intention.

Overall, oakmoss is a highly prized fragrance ingredient in perfumery known for its rich and earthy aroma. Despite regulatory considerations, the unique scent and fixative properties of oakmoss continue to make it a valuable component in creating complex and long-lasting fragrances.

Oakmoss can be included as an offering to ancestors during ancestral veneration rituals. It is believed that the scent of oakmoss helps to invoke the presence of ancestors and create a connection between the living and the deceased. Oakmoss can be placed on an altar or sacred space dedicated to ancestors as an offering of gratitude, respect, and remembrance.

Oakmoss may be used in smudging rituals to purify and cleanse the energy around ancestral altars or sacred spaces. By burning oakmoss as incense, its aroma is believed to cleanse the space, remove any negative or stagnant energy, and create a sacred environment conducive to ancestral communication and connection.

Oakmoss can be added to ritual baths or washes used for ancestral rituals. The water infused with oakmoss is believed to carry the energy of grounding, protection, and connection to the ancestral realm. Bathing or washing with oakmoss-infused water is seen as a way to honor and commune with ancestors, seeking their guidance and blessings.

Oakmoss can be included in ritual anointing oils or perfumes used during ancestral rituals. These oils or perfumes are applied to the body, particularly on pulse points or areas associated with intuition and spiritual connection. The scent of oakmoss is believed to facilitate a deeper connection with ancestors, enhancing one's ability to communicate with them and receive their guidance.