Jasmine sambac, a species of jasmine native to South and Southeast Asia, is a small shrub or vine prized for its intensely fragrant flowers. Known as Mogra in India and Pikake in Hawaii, this plant blooms throughout the year, producing clusters of small, waxy, white flowers. These flowers are particularly noted for their beautiful, heady, and sweet fragrance, which is more musky and rich than the slightly cleaner scent of the more common Jasmine officinale.
The scent profile of Jasmine sambac is complex and highly valued in perfumery. It features a sweet, fresh floral base note richly layered with green and slightly fruity undertones, sometimes described as having a subtle herbaceous or tea-like quality. This intoxicating scent is often associated with exoticness and sensuality, making it a popular choice in the formulation of high-end perfumes and scented oils. The essence of Jasmine sambac is typically extracted through enfleurage or solvent extraction, processes that preserve its delicate fragrance compounds.