Chinese Agarwood

Botanical

What is it

Chinese agarwood (Aquilaria sinensis) is the resinous heartwood produced by a tropical tree in response to fungal infection or injury. It is highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine and as a fragrance ingredient.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Calming and digestive support (traditional use)

Mixed Evidence

Long traditional use in TCM and as incense. Modern controlled human evidence is essentially absent.

How it works

Agarwood contains sesquiterpenes (agarofurans, agarospirols) and chromones that give it its characteristic aroma and pharmacological activity. Laboratory studies show anti-inflammatory, sedative, and digestive activity. Traditional Chinese uses include calming the mind, supporting digestion, and treating chest discomfort. Modern controlled human evidence is limited.

Dosage

Traditional decoction doses are 1.5-4.5 g of agarwood daily. Standardized extracts vary widely; follow product label.

When and how to take it

Traditional preparations are typically taken once or twice daily. Follow practitioner or product guidance.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Wood chips or powder (decoction)

Traditional preparation.

Sesquiterpenes extracted in hot water and alcohol

Essential oil

Used in incense and perfume.

Concentrated aromatic compounds

Safety

Generally well-tolerated in traditional doses. Aquilaria species are CITES-protected due to overharvesting; sustainability and source authentication are concerns. Some commercial products may be adulterated.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited data. Be cautious with concentrated essential oil products.

Interactions

Possible additive effects with sedatives based on traditional pharmacology. Limited specific data.

Frequently asked questions

Is agarwood sustainably sourced?⌄

Wild Aquilaria are CITES-protected. Look for cultivated, certified sustainable sources.

Is it the same as oud?⌄

Yes. Oud is the Middle Eastern name for agarwood, prized as a perfume ingredient.

References

Chinese Agarwood on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Chinese Agarwood (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Chinese Agarwood with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

Coming to App Store
Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.