There are many valuable things in the world, but there is one natural substance that is estimated to be worth many times more than gold, diamonds and platinum. It is neither metal nor gem; This is musk. The question is what is it that is smuggled into countries to obtain it, yet scientists consider it a medical miracle? What does it look like, where is it found, and why does it sell for so much? Learn the real secret of musk in this report.
Where is musk found?
Musk is one of the world’s most prized natural fragrances. It is not derived from a plant or tree, but from a rare wild animal, the male musk deer. The musk deer is found in the high mountains of the Himalayas, Tibet, Siberia and Nepal, and its numbers are now very low. Hence the price of musk is skyrocketing.
What does musk look like?
The musk deer has a small, sac-like gland on its body, especially near its navel. This gland produces a dark brown, sticky and highly aromatic substance which is dried and made into musk. Surprisingly, freshly harvested musk has a very strong smell, but as it dries, its aroma becomes softer, deeper and more alluring.
Why is musk so expensive?
Musk is so expensive because of its quality, rarity and high market demand.
For several reasons, as musk is only obtained from male musk deer. Each deer produces a very small amount of musk per year, making it one of the rarest natural scents in the world.
The unique scent of musk makes it the backbone of some of the most expensive perfumes in the world. It acts as a fixative, keeping the fragrance of any perfume longer. As the perfume ages, the musk adds to its fragrance.
Musk also holds special importance in Ayurveda. Musk is not just a scent; It is also a treasure trove of medicinal properties. It naturally reduces inflammation, helps prevent tumors, protects the nervous system and has been used in Ayurveda for centuries to treat heart disease, fainting and certain chronic conditions.
How much does it cost?
Musk is one of the most expensive products on the market today. According to some reports, 20 grams of musk sells for up to ₹2.5 lakh. Musk powder sells for up to ₹30,000 per kg. Its price can be many times higher in the international market, due to which its illegal trade has also increased rapidly.
Legal restrictions and safeguards
Musk deer is a strictly protected species in India. Hunting is strictly prohibited and trading muskrats without permission is considered a crime. The government and the forest department are running special conservation programs to protect it.