What is Ruh? Difference Between Ruh and Attar?
For centuries, Kannauj has been known as the Perfume Capital of India, where the art of natural perfumery is preserved through age-old distillation techniques. Two terms that often create curiosity in the world of fragrances are Ruh and Attar. Although both are precious, they are not the same. Let’s explore what makes Ruh unique and how it differs from Attar.
🌹 What is Ruh?
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Process: Using the ancient method of hydro-distillation in traditional copper vessels (called deg and bhapka), the delicate aroma molecules are carefully extracted.
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Purity: A Ruh contains 100% concentrated essence of the source material, making it the most authentic representation of a plant’s fragrance.
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Examples:
Because of its rarity and purity, Ruh is highly priced and used in luxury perfumery, meditation, and even traditional healing.
🌿 What is Attar?
Unlike Ruh, an Attar is a natural perfume created by distilling flowers, herbs, or spices into a base oil—traditionally pure sandalwood oil.
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Blending: Attars are often blends of multiple botanicals, giving them complex, layered scents.
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Longevity: The sandalwood base not only deepens the fragrance but also helps it last longer on the skin.
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Examples:
Attars are alcohol-free, skin-friendly, and worn as natural perfumes. They are also widely used in aromatherapy, spiritual practices, and cosmetics.
🔑 Key Differences Between Ruh and Attar
| Aspect | Ruh | Attar |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Pure essence of a single flower/plant | Blend of botanicals distilled into sandalwood oil |
| Purity | 100% concentrated extract of single plant part/flower only | 100% concenrated but Sandalwood based or include other ingredients |
| Fragrance Profile | True-to-nature, single note | Complex, multi-layered scent |
| Rarity | Extremely rare and expensive | More accessible and widely available |
| Examples | Ruh Gulab, Ruh Khus | Shamama Attar, Mitti Attar |
🌸 Which Should You Choose?
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If you want the pure soul of a flower or herb, choose Ruh. It’s the closest you can get to experiencing nature’s fragrance in its rawest form.
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If you want a long-lasting perfume with depth and warmth, an Attar is the perfect choice.
Both are treasures of Kannauj, carrying the legacy of India’s rich perfumery heritage.
✨ Conclusion
The world of natural perfumery is filled with wonders, and both Ruh and Attar represent the timeless craftsmanship of Kannauj. Whether you prefer the unblended purity of a Ruh or the complex charm of an Attar, both are alcohol-free, natural, and deeply connected to tradition.
At Kannauj Attar, we offer a wide collection of authentic Ruh, Attars, Essential Oils, and Floral Waters, crafted using age-old distillation techniques. Explore our range and bring home the essence of nature in its purest form.