Castoreum is a brown, secretion produced in the castor sacs of male and female beavers, located near the base of the tail. Beavers use it (mixed with urine) to mark their territory. It’s made by macerating the dried castor sacs in strong alcohol (like ethanol). The alcohol extracts the aromatic compounds, producing a brown, strongly scented tincture. Castor tincture is a traditional and highly valued natural perfume ingredient made from the aged, dried scent glands of the adult Beaver.

Concentration: 1:5.

Uses

Perfumery: Provides a leathery, smoky, musky note and works as a natural fixative to make fragrances last longer.

Traditional medicine (historic): Once used as a remedy for headaches, cramps, anxiety, menstrual pain, and respiratory complaints. Rarely used today.

Flavoring (historical): Very small amounts were once approved for use in food and beverages, especially in vanilla or raspberry flavorings, though this is extremely rare now.

Today Primarily used in niche perfumery and by historical herbalists. Modern medicine and food production almost never use it, since there are synthetic and plant-based substitutes.