Agarwood, also known as oud, is a highly valuable and aromatic resinous wood that is derived from the Aquilaria tree species. The native regions of Agarwood span across several countries in Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Here are some of the primary native regions where Agarwood is found:

Southeast Asia: Agarwood is widely distributed across Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. These countries have a long history of Agarwood cultivation and trade.

Indian Subcontinent: Agarwood is also found in certain regions of the Indian subcontinent, including India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. The Aquilaria tree species can be found in specific areas within these countries, particularly in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Manipur in India.

China: Agarwood is native to some southern provinces of China, including Yunnan, Guangxi, and Hainan. Chinese Agarwood is highly regarded for its unique aroma and is often used in traditional Chinese medicine and incense production.

Other Regions: Agarwood trees are also found in other parts of the world, although they are not considered native regions. These regions include Papua New Guinea, Laos, Myanmar (Burma), and parts of the Middle East.

It's important to note that while Agarwood is native to these regions, the Aquilaria trees have been heavily exploited for their resinous wood over the years. As a result, wild Agarwood populations have significantly declined, and the species is now protected in many countries to prevent illegal logging and unsustainable harvesting practices.

The different types of Agarwood can be broadly categorized based on their geographical origin and species variation. Let's compare the differences between the types of Agarwood mentioned earlier, namely Southeast Asian Agarwood, Indian Subcontinent Agarwood, Chinese Agarwood, and Agarwood from other regions:

Southeast Asian Agarwood:

Geographical Origin: Native to countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Aroma Profile: Southeast Asian Agarwood is known for its rich, complex, and deep fragrance. It often possesses sweet, woody, earthy, and spicy notes with hints of floral or fruity undertones.

Market Demand: Southeast Asian Agarwood has been highly sought after for centuries, commanding high prices due to its unique aroma and cultural significance in traditional practices such as incense and perfume production.

Indian Subcontinent Agarwood:

Geographical Origin: Found in regions of India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, particularly in states like Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Manipur in India.

Aroma Profile: Indian Subcontinent Agarwood is characterized by a warm, deep, and resinous aroma. It often exhibits sweet, balsamic, and spicy notes with hints of floral or medicinal undertones.

Cultural Significance: Agarwood holds great cultural and religious importance in the Indian subcontinent, where it is used in rituals, traditional medicine, and the production of attars (perfume oils).

Chinese Agarwood:

Geographical Origin: Native to southern provinces of China, including Yunnan, Guangxi, and Hainan.

Aroma Profile: Chinese Agarwood is highly regarded for its distinct and delicate fragrance. It is often characterized by its sweet, floral, and slightly fruity notes with subtle woody undertones.

Traditional Use: Chinese Agarwood has been utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for its perceived therapeutic properties and has a long history of use in incense ceremonies and religious practices.

Agarwood from Other Regions:

Geographical Origin: Agarwood trees are also found in other regions, including Papua New Guinea, Laos, Myanmar (Burma), and parts of the Middle East, though they are not considered native regions.

Aroma Profile: The aroma profile of Agarwood from other regions can vary widely depending on factors such as species variation and local environmental conditions. It may exhibit a range of fragrances, including earthy, woody, resinous, or floral notes.

It's important to note that within each of these broad categories, there can be further variations in aroma profiles and quality based on factors such as the specific species of Aquilaria or Gyrinops, the age of the tree, resin content, and the specific region or microclimate where the Agarwood was cultivated or harvested.

The variations in aroma and quality contribute to the diversity and uniqueness of Agarwood types from different regions, making each type highly valued in its own right. The preferences for specific types of Agarwood can vary among consumers and depend on cultural traditions, personal tastes, and the intended use of the Agarwood.