Attars
The History Of Attar
The word ‘Attar’ or ‘Ittar’, derived from the Persian word ‘itr’, means ‘perfume’, ‘scent’, or ‘essence’. Attar’s production dates back several thousand years, making it one of the oldest forms of perfume that humanity has ever known.
Throughout its long history, Attar has been employed in various ways across different cultures. In India, it was used for its fragrance, as well as for medicinal purposes in Ayurveda. In ancient Egypt, Attar was involved in the mummification process, while the Greeks used it for therapeutic benefits. Yet, Attar holds a particular significance within Islamic culture.
Islamic tradition cherishes Attar for its fragrance and its spiritual connotations. It is believed that the Prophet Muhammad greatly appreciated fine scents, and the use of perfume is encouraged within Islamic teachings. Attar became a prominent part of the Islamic world during the golden age of Arabic perfumery, from the 8th to the 14th centuries, when Arabian chemists pioneered methods of extraction and distillation. The ritualistic use of Attar in mosques for cleansing and purifying the environment is a testament to this enduring tradition.
Attar’s journey from the ancient world to the present day has seen it secure a central place in various cultures. The allure of its fragrance, coupled with its historical and religious significance, continues to make it an important part of spiritual and everyday life, particularly within Islamic tradition. Its usage in mosques, especially, symbolizes purification and the divine connection between humans and their creator.
The Process Of Making Attar
The traditional method of creating Attar, known as ‘Degs & Bhapka’, involves hydro-distillation. This process begins with the collection of the raw materials. Fragrant plants, such as roses, jasmine, or sandalwood, are handpicked and then placed in a large copper still called a Deg. The Deg is filled with water and heated over a slow, wood fire. As the water heats up, it extracts the aromatic compounds from the plant materials.
The steam carrying the aromatic compounds rises into a hollow bamboo pipe, called a ‘Chonga’, connected to a copper receiving vessel called a ‘Bhapka’. This Bhapka is immersed in a cooling tank with water, which condenses the steam back into a liquid. This liquid is collected in a leather bottle, known as ‘Kuppi’, which allows the water and oil to separate naturally due to their different densities. The oil that floats on top is the precious Attar.
Modern methods have somewhat mechanized this process while still aiming to retain the quality and integrity of the traditional practice. Techniques like steam distillation, cold percolation, and solvent extraction are common in contemporary Attar production.
The sheer variety of Attar comes from the diverse range of ingredients used, each contributing a unique scent profile. Floral notes like rose, jasmine, and lotus are common, as are earthy scents from ingredients like sandalwood and vetiver. More exotic Attars may use the aromatic resin of the agarwood tree, producing what is known as Oud Attar, one of the most expensive perfumes in the world.
The process of creating Attar is a labor of love, requiring meticulous attention to detail and a deep appreciation for the artistry involved. Each drop of Attar carries the essence of this rich tradition, making it much more than just a perfume—it is an aromatic celebration of history, culture, and craftsmanship.