ambergris
Ambergris is not the saliva of a dragon, but an intestinal secretion of the sperm whale, floating on the sea surface like wax; it is the most powerful fixative among famous fragrances.
Source: A calculus-like secretion from the intestines and stomach of the sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus), expelled or floating on the sea surface after death, soaked in seawater for years and oxidized into waxy masses.
Origin: Tropical and subtropical seas (Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean), traded since ancient times via Arabia and Europe.
Fragrance: Its own scent is faint and distinctive, reminiscent of seaweed, warm with an animalic note; once added to incense, it can "lock" in other fragrances and multiply their lasting power—hence it is called the "king of fixatives."
Uses: A fixative for fine perfumes and blended incense. The West regards it as equally precious as Eastern agarwood.
Distinguishing Name and Reality
"龙涎"(dragon saliva) was the ancients' interpretation based on the literal meaning of the name, not actual dragon saliva. It is comparable to the Arabian and European incense traditions in theGlobal Incense Compendium. Today it is a product of a protected species, and synthetic substitutes are mostly used.