Pronunciation: [ˈaɡə͡lwˌʊd] (IPA) 
The spelling of "agalwood" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as æɡəlwoʊd. The first sound is the vowel sound "æ" as in "cat," followed by the consonant sound "ɡ" as in "go." The next syllable begins with the vowel sound "ə" also known as a schwa sound. The "l" sound follows and is held for a short duration before the "woʊd" syllable which sounds like "woad" but with lips rounded for the "oʊ" sound.
Agalwood, also known as agarwood or oud, refers to a fragrant resinous material obtained from the heartwood of several species of trees belonging to the genus Aquilaria. This highly prized substance is primarily used in perfumery and is renowned for its unique and intoxicating aroma.
Agalwood is formed as a result of a particular reaction within the tree when it is infected by a specific type of mold. In response to this infection, the tree produces a resinous substance as a defense mechanism, which gradually accumulates in the heartwood over many years. The resin, once it solidifies, transforms into a dark, resinous wood that is highly valued for its aromatic properties.
The scent of agalwood is often described as complex, deep, and woody, with hints of sweet, balsamic, and sometimes animalic undertones. Due to its rarity and the labor-intensive nature of its extraction, agalwood is among the most expensive natural raw materials used in perfumery.
In addition to its olfactory qualities, agalwood also holds cultural and religious significance in various parts of the world. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, perfumery, and religious rituals. Given its desirability, agalwood is at risk of overharvesting and illegal logging, leading to regulatory measures and sustainable cultivation practices to protect these trees and ensure their conservation for future generations.
The word "agalwood" or "agarwood" originates from the combination of two separate words: "agar" and "wood".
The term "agar" comes from the Sanskrit word "agaru", which refers to the resinous heartwood of the Aquilaria tree. The Sanskrit term was subsequently adopted into various languages, including Arabic as "oudh" and Hindi as "agar".
The word "wood" simply refers to the material taken from trees.
"Agarwood" or "agalwood" is known for its highly aromatic and valuable resin-infused wood, which is derived from the Aquilaria tree and is extensively used in traditional perfumery and incense. The term "agalwood" is more commonly used in Southeast Asia, while "agarwood" is commonly used in the Western world.
