The History of Chinese Agarwood: A Millennium of Elegance and Heritage

Agarwood, known as "oud" in some regions, has a profound connection with Chinese history. For centuries, this precious aromatic wood has been highly cherished, carrying deep - seated cultural, religious, and practical meanings.

In the Pre - Qin period, agarwood first entered China. As a rare item, it was only accessible to the nobility. Its fascinating aroma made it a choice for simple sacrificial and ritual ceremonies. People burned agarwood sticks to release the fragrance, communicating with the divine and commemorating ancestors.

After the opening of the Silk Road, agarwood trade increased. During the Qin and Han Dynasties, it became popular among the imperial court and the upper class, used for incense - burning and making high - end spices. Emperor Wu of Han's love for agarwood increased its demand, and people also explored its use in repelling insects.

The Tang and Song Dynasties were the golden age of agarwood culture. In the Tang Dynasty, literati often wrote about agarwood. Incense - making with it reached new heights. By the Song Dynasty, agarwood was integrated into daily life, such as during tea - tasting. Scholars like Su Shi and Huang Tingjian used oud oil to refresh themselves. The trade thrived, and port cities traded various forms of agarwood.

During the Yuan Dynasty, agarwood remained popular among the court and nobility. In the Ming and Qing Dynasties, agarwood culture revived, trade was active, and it was applied in traditional Chinese medicine. The craftsmanship of agarwood carving also reached new heights.

Today, agarwood culture is still flourishing. Agarwood, oud oil, and related products are popular globally. Oud oil is used in high - end perfumes, and agarwood extracts are used in cosmetics. Technological progress has improved cultivation and processing, ensuring its sustainable development.

Agarwood has always been an important part of Chinese cultural heritage and will surely continue to be passed down and shine more brightly.