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For many Muslims, scent is more than just a pleasant smell. It connects us to our faith, traditions, and memories. Two of the most loved traditional scents in the Muslim world are oud and bakhoor.
They are used in homes, mosques, and on the body. But many people still ask: What is the difference between oud and bakhoor? Are they the same? Which one should you use?
If you're looking to understand these scents better, this blog is for you.
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Oud comes from the agarwood tree. When this tree becomes infected with a certain type of mould, it produces a dark, fragrant resin. This resin is what we call oud.
Oud is very rare and expensive. It has been used in Islamic and Arabic perfume traditions for centuries. You may have heard of oud oil, oud attar, or oud perfume. All these products are made from this special resin.
The scent of oud is deep, woody, and rich. Many describe it as warm and luxurious. In some cultures, it is even called "liquid gold".
In Islam, applying fragrance is a Sunnah. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) loved good scents.
Narrated by Aisha (RA):
“I used to perfume Allah's Messenger (PBUH) with the best scent available till I saw the shine of the scent on his head and shine beard.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 5923)
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Bakhoor is not a single ingredient like oud. It is a mixture. It usually includes wood chips soaked in fragrant oils, along with natural ingredients like rose, musk, sandalwood, and sometimes even oud.
These mixtures are then shaped into small pieces or blocks. People burn them using a bakhoor burner (also known as a mabkhara).
When you burn bakhoor, it releases a thick, sweet-smelling smoke. This smoke fills the room and can cling to clothes, furniture, and curtains.
Bakhoor is very popular in many Muslim homes, especially during special occasions like Jumu’ah, Eid, or when guests arrive.
There are many surprising benefits of wearing bakhoor that you might not know. Explore them here!
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Many people wonder, Is bakhoor and oud the same? The answer is no.
Let’s look at the key differences between oud and bakhoor:
| Feature | Oud | Bakhoor |
|---|---|---|
| Made from | Agarwood resin | Wood chips, oils, and resins |
| Form | Oil, attar, or wood | Blended blocks or chips |
| How it’s used | Applied to the skin or burned | Burned with a charcoal or electric burner |
| Scent | Woody, deep, long-lasting | Sweet, floral, or spicy |
| Use | Personal fragrance | Home fragrance |
So, the difference between bakhoor and oud lies in how they are made, used, and how they smell.
Oud is often used as a perfume or oil. Bakhoor is mainly for scenting the home. But both are part of Islamic home fragrance traditions.
Oud can come as an oil, a spray perfume, or even small wood chips.
a. Oud oil or attar: Apply a small drop on your wrist, behind the ears, or on your clothes.
b. Oud spray: Use it like any normal perfume. It’s best after ghusl or before prayer.
c. Oud chips: These can be burned like bakhoor but are usually more expensive.
To enjoy bakhoor, you’ll need a bakhoor burner. There are two types: charcoal burners and electric ones.
a. Place a small piece of bakhoor on the burner.
b. Light the charcoal or switch on the electric burner.
c. Let the scent fill the room.
d. Be careful if using it around children or near curtains.
Bakhoor is often used before guests arrive or after cleaning the home. It gives the house a warm and welcoming scent.
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This is another common question: which lasts longer, oud or bakhoor?
In most cases, oud perfume or oil lasts longer. When you apply it on the skin or clothes, the scent can stay for many hours, even the whole day.
Bakhoor, on the other hand, fills the air quickly, but the scent fades faster. However, if you burn a strong bakhoor, the scent may linger on fabrics for a while.
So, if you're looking for something long-lasting on your body, go for oud. If you want to make your home smell lovely, choose bakhoor.
If you’re wondering where to buy oud and bakhoor online, Riwaya is a great place to start. They offer a wide range of authentic and natural products, perfect for Muslims in the UK.
You can find everything from pure oud oils to beautiful bakhoor blends, including popular options like oud and rose bakhoor. This mix combines the deep, woody scent of oud with the soft, sweet fragrance of roses, ideal for adding warmth and elegance to your home.
Riwaya works with trusted sellers who use natural ingredients, making it easy to shop with confidence.
Some people like to use oud and bakhoor together. This is known as scent layering.
Here’s how you can do it:
a. Burn bakhoor in your home while you get ready.
b. After you dress, apply a small amount of oud perfume.
c. The mix of both scents creates a deep and rich aroma.
This method is especially nice for weddings, Eid, or special gatherings.
For Muslims, fragrance is not just for smelling good. It is part of our Islamic identity. It is a Sunnah, a sign of cleanliness, and a way to make our homes and lives feel peaceful.
The Prophet (PBUH) loved perfumes and encouraged their use. Using traditional Muslim scents like oud and bakhoor connects us to this beautiful Sunnah.
In the UK, many Muslims are turning back to these traditional products. They are natural, meaningful, and rich in heritage.
So, what is the difference between oud and bakhoor?
a. Oud comes from the agarwood tree and is used as a perfume.
b. Bakhoor is a mix of wood and oils used to scent your home.
c. They are not the same, but can be used together.
Both oud and bakhoor are beautiful parts of our Arabic perfume traditions. Whether you prefer the richness of oud attar or the sweet smoke of bakhoor resin, there is something for everyone.
Explore, experiment, and bring these traditions into your daily life. Let your faith and fragrance go hand in hand.
If you make or sell oud and bakhoor, Riwaya is the perfect place to grow your business. You’ll be part of a trusted Islamic marketplace that connects you with customers who love traditional, halal fragrances.
Whether you blend your own bakhoor, sell pure oud oils, or curate beautiful gift sets, Riwaya makes it easy to get started. You don’t need a shop, just your passion, your products, and the desire to share them with the Ummah.
There’s low upfront cost, full flexibility, and the chance to earn in a way that feels meaningful. You’re not just selling, you’re helping people bring beautiful sunnah scents into their homes.
Join Riwaya as a seller today. Let’s grow together.
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