Fresh

Elemi smells like a bright, lemony forest after rain. Imagine peeling a fresh lemon and discovering it has a slightly spicy, almost peppery warmth beneath the citrus—that's elemi's character. There's something almost medicinal about it, reminiscent of walking through a pharmacy or opening a tin of soothing balm, but far more refined and fruity. It's crisp and clean without being sharp, with an underlying creamy, almost balsamic depth that prevents it from feeling thin or harsh.

Woody

Imagine walking through damp earth after rain, then crushing dried autumn leaves in your hands. That's patchouli's essence: earthy, almost animalic, with a subtle sweetness lurking underneath. It smells vaguely like rich soil mixed with dried tobacco and a whisper of chocolate. There's a dark, slightly musty quality—think opening an antique wooden chest. It's grounding and intensely aromatic, never delicate. Fresh patchouli has peppery brightness; aged patchouli becomes deeper, warmer, almost leather-like.