Ingredient

Dipteryx Odorata Seed Extract (Tonka Seed Extract)

Dipteryx odorata

From the floor of the Amazon rainforest to fragrant extraction rooms in France, sweet tonka bean extract gently takes us on an aromatic and reassuring journey.

The tall camaru tree (Dipteryx odorata) belongs to the legume family (Fabaceae) and grows in Costa Rica, Brazil and Peru. It bears fruits that contain a single seed, jet-black, oblong and smooth, called the tonka bean.

Where does Lush purchase tonka bean extract?

Lush purchases tonka beans directly from indigenous and local communities of the Amazon forest. Among these are the Kayapo people of Brazil. They pick up fallen fruits from the forest floor and break them one by one with a hammer to release the precious beans. Dried in the sun and gathered into big bags, they are then sent to Grasse, France, where they are transformed into an absolute, also called ‘extract’.

What does tonka bean extract smell like?

Alina Gliwinska, perfumer at Lush, is particularly fond of this ingredient, which she considers incredibly versatile:  "Tonka absolute, also known as Tonka Seed Extract, is a beautifully rich and comforting ingredient. In my opinion, it is one of the best gourmand materials. It is deep, strong, and particularly useful for rounding out blends and adding a refined, creamy richness."

She adds, "It offers an inviting aroma: warm, sweet, caramelic, coumarinic (with just a touch of dry hay-like notes), softly creamy, and slightly nutty. Tonka’s scent carries a blend of vanilla, almond, caramel, and gentle spice notes, with a subtle powdery softness that adds depth and smoothness to any fragrance composition."

What are the benefits of tonka bean extract?

• Has a sweet and comforting aroma.
• Can enrich fragrances, especially vanilla ones.
• Very soothing to the skin.
• Calming to the mind, evoking a certain nostalgia.

"Tonka absolute works wonderfully as a base note", Alina Gliwinska explains, "helping to soften sharper elements while bringing balance and depth to a perfume. It blends especially well with vanilla, sandalwood, benzoin, and amber to create warm, comforting fragrances. It also pairs beautifully with florals such as jasmine, rose, and orange blossom, adding softness and elegance. It is equally effective with citrus notes, where it adds richness and sweetness, creating a delicate contrast between fresh top notes and a warm, gourmand base. Finally, spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and clove enhance its natural warmth and depth."