fragrance note

Litsea Cubeba

2 perfumes

Litsea cubeba, often referred to as May Chang, offers a vibrant, high-pitched citrus profile that leans closer to lemon verbena and lemongrass than standard bergamot. Belonging to the citrus family, it possesses a sharp, green, and slightly spicy edge that provides an immediate, sparkling lift to the top notes of a composition. It pairs naturally with lavender and rosemary in aromatic fougères, or with ginger to sharpen spicy accords. In the Gulf, this note is a master of endurance during the sweltering summer months; its crisp, clean character cuts through the humidity, making it a favored choice for refreshing daily wear. Arab perfumers frequently utilize it to balance the density of heavy resins or deep oud bases, adding a necessary brightness that prevents complex blends from becoming overly cloying in the heat.