Spicy

Green cardamom smells like stepping into a spice bazaar on a crisp morning. Imagine biting into a cardamom pod: there's an immediate cool, almost minty freshness with subtle eucalyptus undertones, followed by warmth—not heat, but a gentle, creamy spiciness reminiscent of freshly ground pepper mixed with a whisper of camphor. It's simultaneously bright and comforting, like the aromatic steam rising from chai tea, with an underlying herbaceous quality that feels alive and slightly peppery on the back of your nose.

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.