Musk

Musk, substance with a strong, persistent odor from an abdominal gland on the male of the musk deer found in high Asian mountains. The long-lasting odor of musk has made it an important ingredient in perfumes throughout history. Musk also delays evaporation of more volatile scents in a perfume, and is used as a fixative in blends where other scents are dominant. In Asia it is sought as an aphrodisiac, and it is believed to be medically beneficial as a stimulant. Fresh musk is viscous but dries to a grainy powder and a tincture of this powder is used in perfumes. The basic oil that is the source of the odor has been identified and called muskone. Synthesized muskone is also used in soaps and cosmetics. See Perfumery.