Stora Skuggan: Hexensalbe
Some perfumes cast spells the moment you hear about them. Hexensalbe was one of those for me. The name, the folklore roots, the quiet cult buzz around it—this scent already had a space waiting on my skin before I even uncapped the bottle. Thankfully, it lived up to the enchantment.
The Scent
From the very first sniff, you’re met with a soft but distinct liquorice note; smoky, rooty, and elegant. It doesn’t shout, it weaves. It's the kind of liquorice that feels alchemical, not candied. Think dried herbs steeped in shadows rather than sticky aniseed sweets. And just as you start to sink into that dark lull, a green spiced freshness emerges, like crushed stems underfoot or leaves brushed aside in a half-forgotten forest path.
What I find most compelling about Hexensalbe is its restraint. It could have gone big, but it didn’t. Instead, it stays close, warm, and incredibly well-balanced. Nothing jostles for attention. Everything is in soft conversation. It's smoky, but not ashy. Herbal, but not sharp. Green, but never raw. The blending is thoughtful and hypnotic, like a potion designed to calm your nerves and steal your heart at the same time.
The notes
Top: Licorice & Wormwood
Heart: Angelica, Rosemary, Belladonna & Tuberose
Base: Patchouli, Black hemlock & Oakmoss
Hexensalbe wears beautifully, staying close to the skin while evolving over hours. There’s a grounded comfort in the dry down, like the lingering scent on your jumper after sitting near a firepit in an overgrown garden.
Who is this for?
This is for the quietly magical. For the ones who read tarot on the train, who make good soup, who know the names of trees. It’s mysterious but approachable, like the friend who might read your aura but will also remind you to stay hydrated.
Final thoughts
Hexensalbe feels like a spell whispered, not chanted. It’s practically perfect; original, wearable, and evocative. It’s a standout from Stora Skuggan’s already imaginative lineup and a masterclass in how to make a scent feel truly otherworldly without becoming costume-y.
Star rating: ★★★★★ (5 / 5)
Review disclosure
Review from two days of wear and sampling from a 2ml sample from a Stora Skuggan discovery set. Bought from Stora Skuggan.
