Description
The civet, scientifically known as Civettictis civetta, is a nocturnal mammal predominantly found in Africa and Asia. Renowned for its musky secretion, the civet has been historically esteemed for its multifaceted uses.
Medicinal use: Civet musk was once utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for its perceived therapeutic properties, believed to alleviate certain ailments like convulsions, and spasms, and even as an aphrodisiac. However, its medicinal use has declined due to ethical concerns and the availability of alternative treatments.
Cosmetic use: Civet musk was an esteemed ingredient in perfumery, imparting a distinct aroma, depth, and fixative qualities to fragrances. Its rich, animalistic scent contributed to high-end perfumes, although in modern times, synthetic alternatives are preferred due to ethical considerations and animal protection efforts.
Aromatherapy Application: The essence of civet was believed to possess calming and grounding effects, used sparingly as a base note in blends to evoke a sense of balance and tranquility.
Interesting fact – Their musk, secreted from perineal glands, was historically collected by gently scraping it from the glands. This practice, known as civet farming, was used to harvest the aromatic secretion without harming the animals. However, due to ethical and animal welfare concerns, many perfumers have shifted toward synthetic alternatives, impacting the traditional collection methods.
