Cade, also known as juniper tar, is a substance derived from the destructive distillation of the wood of the cade juniper (Juniperus oxycedrus). Juniperus oxycedrus, commonly known as Prickly Juniper or Cade Juniper, is native to the Mediterranean region. Its natural range includes parts of southern Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. Specifically, it can be found in countries such as Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Greece, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Turkey. Our cade is sourced from Spain.

This evergreen shrub or small tree is well-adapted to the Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Juniperus oxycedrus is known for its distinctive needle-like leaves and its small, dark berries that take about two years to ripen.

It has a smoky, tar-like aroma that is used in perfumery to add depth, character, and an earthy quality to fragrances. It's important to note that cade has a strong and dominant aroma, and a little goes a long way. It is typically used in small quantities in perfumery to avoid overpowering the fragrance composition. It can be blended with other ingredients, such as woods, resins, or spices, to create more nuanced and balanced fragrances.

In perfumery, cade is a base note found in our Smoky family. It is often employed in compositions that aim to recreate smoky or woody atmospheres, such as those evocative of a campfire or a dense forest. The distinct smokiness of cade can add a unique and powerful element to fragrances, contributing to their overall complexity and richness.

Cade is particularly valued in the creation of leather accords in perfumery. Its smoky, tarry scent can emulate the aroma of leather, giving perfumes a rugged, animalic, and sensual character. Cade is also used in certain masculine fragrances to add depth and masculinity.

Overall, cade is a valued ingredient in perfumery, known for its smoky, tar-like aroma that adds depth and character to fragrances, particularly in leather and woody compositions. Its distinctive scent helps create unique olfactory experiences and can evoke a sense of mystery, ruggedness, and the natural world.

In some cultures, the juniper tree and its derivatives, including cade or juniper tar, have been used for their medicinal properties. Cade oil has been employed as a natural remedy for skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. It has also been used as an antiseptic and as a treatment for respiratory issues.

Juniper trees, from which cade is derived, have been associated with folklore and mythology in different cultures. In some traditions, juniper trees are believed to possess protective and purifying qualities. They are often used in rituals and ceremonies aimed at warding off negative energies or evil spirits.

Cade and juniper-based materials have been used in perfumery and incense for their aromatic properties. The smoky and resinous scent of cade can evoke a sense of earthiness, grounding, and spirituality. It has been incorporated into perfumes, colognes, and aromatic blends to add depth and complexity to the olfactory experience.

Cade and juniper tar have been used in various cleansing and purification rituals. For instance, in some Native American traditions, smudging with juniper branches or burning juniper berries is believed to cleanse and purify a space or an individual, removing negative energies and promoting spiritual well-being.

In certain regions, juniper trees, from which cade is derived, hold cultural significance. They may be regarded as sacred or symbolize endurance, protection, or resilience. Juniper branches or twigs are sometimes incorporated into decorations or used in traditional celebrations and festivals.