Tonka bean fragrance

Parfum fève tonka

Type : Trees

Facette olfactive : Vanilla & Musk

Obtention : Alcohol treatment

Origine géographique : Venezuela, Brazil

See our tonka bean fragrances
Also known as coumarin, tonka bean is a magical ingredient that has been used in the world of perfumery for centuries. Its warm, sensual, and exotic scent creates a seductive, instantly recognizable fragrance.
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SUMMARY

What does the word tonka bean mean?

The word "tonka" comes from the languages ​​of the indigenous peoples, the Galibi and Tupi, of Guyana and Brazil, Tupi-Guarani. Originally spelled "tonga" or "tunga," meaning "fruit" or "bean." It was the Europeans who decided to use the word "tonka" and then differentiate this seed contained in the fruit of the teak tree from beans.

In the beginning…

The tonka bean, this exotically fragrant seed, has become a staple in the world of perfume. Native to the Amazon, it was introduced to Europe in the 19th century and quickly won over French perfumers. Originally used as a vanilla substitute, it became prized for its ability to bind other ingredients and extend the life of perfumes. Harvested in South America and the Caribbean, where the Dipteryx odorata tree can grow up to 30 meters tall, its fragrant flowers attract bees and pollinating insects. In recent decades, it has become the most popular spice, bringing its captivating character to many perfumes.

DID YOU KNOW? In the Amazon region, the tonka bean is considered a symbol of luck and happiness. Local residents believe in its protective and beneficial powers. However, it's important to note that there's no guarantee that simply wearing a tonka bean-based piece of jewelry, such as a Craftazur Tonka necklace, will produce the same magical effect!

 

Tonka bean cultivation

Dipteryx odorata is a tree native to South America. Tonka beans are harvested in many of its regions:
Venezuela. This region is recognized as the largest producer of tonka beans in the world. The humid climate and fertile soils create ideal conditions for growing these trees. Brazil. Also a very large producer of tonka beans, particularly in the northern region of the country. The Brazilian tonka bean has a milder scent than that of Venezuela. In addition to perfumery, tonka beans are also used in cooking in this country. Colombia. This is another important source of tonka bean cultivation, but more so in the Santander and Norte de Santander regions. Colombian tonka beans are prized for their vanilla-flavored sweetness.

Tonka bean cultivation has been challenging due to the tree's long maturation period and its susceptibility to pests and diseases. To address these challenges, some companies specializing in planting the tonka bean-producing tree, the Dipteryx odorata, have begun planting these beans sustainably and responsibly. In doing so, they ensure a steady supply of this precious ingredient and contribute to the preservation of the Amazon rainforest and the livelihoods of local communities. This planting process involves selecting the best-quality seeds and propagating them in a nursery until they are strong enough to be transplanted into a field. These trees require fertile, well-drained soil, sunlight, regular watering, and fertilization.

The tonka bean harvesting process is a delicate and time-consuming task, requiring careful attention to every detail. Once the tree ripens and produces pods, the fruit is harvested. The shell is cracked to reveal the seeds. These must be gently extracted and left to dry in the sun for several weeks, then macerated in rum for 24 hours. This drying process is crucial because it allows the seeds to develop their flavors. Once the seeds are dry, they are sorted according to their size, color, and scent intensity. The highest-quality seeds are then packaged and shipped to perfumers around the world.

What did you know about the tonka bean in perfumery?

In perfumery, macerated and dried beans are ground into powder. They are then treated with volatile solvents. This substance is then rinsed with alcohol to deliver a 100% tonka bean absolute. Depending on its concentration, its color is brown or amber and its odor is powerful. Furthermore, the tonka bean is most often used for its versatility. Indeed, it can be used in a variety of olfactory families: gourmand, oriental, or floral. With its diverse scents, the tonka bean can be used to create both women's and men's fragrances.

The tonka bean is known for its very diverse and intriguing scent profile. Let's take a closer look! Once used as a vanilla substitute, the tonka bean is known for its creamy yet sweet vanilla aroma, making it irresistible. In addition to its vanilla scent, it's also known for its almondy aroma, almost indistinguishable from almonds. Finally, coumarin, found in tobacco leaves and the tonka bean, gives it a spicy and woody scent, adding depth to this ingredient and complexity to any perfume.

Good to know

Tonka bean has several medicinal properties. It can be used as a pain reliever, cough suppressant, antispasmodic, fatigue-fighting stimulant, blood thinner, and detoxifier. However, in high doses, the coumarin present in this bean becomes toxic and can cause fairly serious, but fortunately reversible, liver damage! This, of course, applies to heavy consumers of this ingredient.

The legendary tonka bean fragrances...

At the beginning of the 20th century, perfumers began to take an interest in this ingredient for its unique vanilla scent. However, it was the house of Guerlain that would truly bring tonka bean to the forefront. The ingredient was present in the famous Guerlinade, a collection of raw materials unveiled in 1921. It would become the brand's signature scent. It can be found in:

Tonka Impériale , an eau de parfum from Guerlain known for its rich, spicy notes of tonka bean, cinnamon and saffron.

Shalimar Eau de Parfum: Inspired by the Shalimar gardens built by Shah Jahan, this fragrance made history as the first oriental perfume. Following its citrusy top notes, we find a pioneering combination: a delicate floral heart composed of jasmine, rose and powdery iris, and gourmand and sensual notes. Among these base notes, we find tonka bean alongside patchouli and vanilla.

As a result, the tonka bean became prized by many perfumers:

Tobacco Vanille by Tom Ford , between the blend of vanilla and tobacco, this fragrance is one of the most popular for tonka bean lovers. Warm and sweet, this fragrance is perfect for fall and winter.

Scandal by Night by Jean-Paul Gaultier , this powerful and sensual fragrance blends floral notes with vanilla and honey scents. Here, tonka bean punctuates this fragrance on a gourmand base note.

Delicious bean by Christian Dior , this oriental fragrance combines tonka bean with vanilla, creating an intense and gourmet scent.

Chanel Allure Homme Sport Eau de Toilette embodies dynamic energy and modern freshness. Its sparkling citrus notes blend with woody and spicy accords, creating an elegant and sporty fragrance that inspires confidence and adventure.

Yves Saint Laurent Manifesto Eau de Parfum is a bold and captivating fragrance. Its rich notes of jasmine, vanilla, and amber wood create a sensual and captivating scent, a true expression of assertive femininity.

Bon Parfumeur tonka bean perfumes

Sweet and spicy, you will find tonka bean in our eaux de parfum 603 and 901.

Soft and mystical, let yourself be seduced by the 603 eau de parfum , with scents of leather and tonka bean.

For a shot of energy and spice, be inspired by the 901 eau de parfum , with its sweet vanilla scents. And you, which tonka bean will you wear?

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