Home › Glossary › Purple Yam

Purple Yam

Q: Is Purple Yam natural or synthetic?

. Extraction: Fantasy note — no purple yam essential oil exists commercially. The scent is recreated using synthetic lactonic and earthy accords..

FRUITS, VEGETABLES AND NUTS / sweet · earthy · nutty

Purple Yam

Category	FRUITS, VEGETABLES AND NUTS
Subcategory	sweet · earthy · nutty
Origin
Volatility	Heart Note
Botanical	Dioscorea alata
Appearance	Purple to dark violet paste
Odor Strength	Medium
Producing Countries	India, Nigeria, Philippines, Pacific Islands
Pyramid	Heart

Purple Yam is a bright root vegetable known for its unique flavor and color, often used in culinary applications.

Scent
The Full Story
Fun Fact
Extraction & Chemistry
In Perfumery

Scent

Purple Yam has a sweet, creamy aroma with earthy undertones. Its scent can be likened to a blend of sweet vanilla and subtle nutty notes. This profile is both bright and grounding.

Scent Evolution

When experienced in a perfume, the initial impression is often, like freshly baked goods. As it develops, the scent reveals softer nuances akin to sweet potato and hints of floral undertones.

Evolution over time

Immediately

Sweet and creamy aroma with earthy undertones

After a few hours

Softer nuances akin to sweet potato

After a few days

Comforting and indulgent olfactory experience

The Full Story

Purple Yam, also known as Ube, is a tuber native to Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines. This striking root vegetable has a deep purple hue. Historically, it has been a staple in various Asian cuisines, known for its nutritional benefits and versatility. In perfumery, its scent profile is gaining traction.

Origin and Production

Sourcing Purple Yam involves careful cultivation and harvesting, primarily in tropical regions where the climate supports its growth. Farmers typically plant the tubers in well-drained soil, and once harvested, they can be processed to extract their aromatic properties. The richness of Purple Yam lies in its flavor and in its potential olfactory contributions.

Chemistry and Scent Profile

As the fragrance industry evolves, Purple Yam is becoming more significant because of its scent profile that complements a variety of other notes. Its sweet and earthy aroma provides a rich backdrop for more complex fragrance structures. Its striking color and aroma also lend a sense of authenticity and naturalness to modern fragrance compositions.

Did You Know?

Purple Yam is a culinary delight and rich in antioxidants.

Related Notes

Discover more: Argan, Potato, Shea Butter, and Pumpkin.

This note in Première Peau. Rose Monotone. Sample all seven extraits in the Discovery Set.

Did You Know?

Did you know?

Purple Yam is a culinary delight and rich in antioxidants, adding health benefits to its appeal.

Extraction & Chemistry

Extraction method: Fantasy note — no purple yam essential oil exists commercially. The scent is recreated using synthetic lactonic and earthy accords.

Molecular Formula	N/A — natural tuber, complex mixture
CAS Number	N/A — natural tuber, no single CAS
Botanical Name	Dioscorea alata
IFRA Status	No known restrictions
Synonyms	Ube, Purple Sweet Potato
Physical Properties
Odor Strength	Medium
Appearance	Purple to dark violet paste

In Perfumery

In perfumery, Purple Yam typically is a heart note because of its rich and sweet characteristics. It pairs wonderfully with vanilla, tonka bean, and other sweet gourmand notes, improving warmth of a fragrance. it can harmonize with floral elements such as jasmine or ylang-ylang, creating a beautifully balanced composition that is both sweet and structured.