Name for the dried, powdery secretion from the gland between the navel and penis of the male musk deer. It is possibly derived from the ancient Indian term "muskah" (testicle). The substance has structural similarities to pheromones (sexual scents), which is why it is said to have an aphrodisiac effect. Mainly responsible for the slightly sweet, animalic aroma is the oily substance muscon with a share of up to 2%. However, the term "musk" is also used for glandular secretions of other animals (musk ox, musk buck, muskrat, musk duck) and plant saps (of musk juggler flower, musk mallow) with a similar odour, but these are "false musks". Today, musk is mostly produced synthetically and used in the perfume and cosmetics industry.
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