The Chemistry and Fragrance of Natural Musk Compounds

NATURAL OCCURRENCE OF MUSK ODOR

Since antiquity, the scent glands or secretions of certain animals have been highly valued for use in perfumes. During the Sung Dynasty (10th to 13th centuries), Chinese merchants exchanged silk, brocades, and weapons for these scent secretions, which were prized much more than gold. What are the sources of these natural odorants and what are the constituents responsible for the odor?
These highly desired odor materials are available from a wide range of natural origins belonging to both the animal and vegetable kingdoms. In plants, the odorant is a component of the essential oils, and among animals the material is produced in glands or other organs as well as in body fluids. The term musk, which is used to designate this entire group of odorants, derives from the name of an animal, the musk deer (Moschus moschiferus).