Nag Champa” is a perfume originally manufactured in the Hindu and Buddhist monasteries of India and Nepal. It is traditionally made from a sandalwood base, to which are added a variety of flower oils -including that from the flower of the Champac tree. Each monastery has it’s own secret formula which is revealed to no-one outside the order!
The sacred tree belongs to the magnolia family and grows to about 30 metres in height. Its flower is yellow and star shaped, and as well as being the source of the perfume, also gives a yellow dye. Frequently planted in temple grounds, the wood is used for making sacred images, drums etc.
