Imagine yourself wandering through a deciduous forest. The surrounding trees have shifted into a sea of russet and brown. Yet, amidst these faded autumnal hues, a single tree stands out, adorned with vibrant, golden-yellow blossoms. Before you even draw near, a sweet, refreshing breeze carries its captivating aroma to meet you.

     This is the Golden Gardenia, known scientifically as Gardenia sootepensis (or "Kham Mok Luang" in Thai). To some, it is a familiar friend; to others, a new discovery. But once experienced, its presence is unforgettable.

A Tree of Infinite Value: From Deep Roots to High Canopies

     The Golden Gardenia is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to Thailand. It thrives across the northern highlands—in provinces like Chiang Mai, Lampang, Phrae, Uttaradit, and Phayao—as well as parts of the Northeast, including Nakhon Phanom and Nakhon Ratchasima.

     What makes this tree truly exceptional is not just its beauty, but the utility found in every part of it. Local wisdom has long utilized its heartwood for decoctions to treat diabetes, its wood to alleviate dysentery, and its seeds for a natural anti-lice hair wash. The roots and leaves are brewed into tea to reduce fever and induce sweating. However, it is the flower that remains the most iconic feature. Known for its intense and long-reaching fragrance, the blossoms bloom between March and April, starting as pure white before gradually maturing into a rich golden-orange.

University of Phayao: Discovering the "Treasure" Within

     At the University of Phayao, an interesting story unfolded: long before the university was even established, the Golden Gardenia grew wild across the landscape. A recent survey revealed 144 naturally occurring trees scattered throughout the campus. They can be found at the "Kham Mok Luang Plaza" near the ascent to Phra Phuttha Phuchakarak (a site named specifically for its high density of these trees), in front of the Demonstration School of University of Phayao, near parking lots, and within protected wildlife areas like the Thai Peacock Conservation Forest and Huai Tap Chang Forest.

     Recognizing this intrinsic value, the university has committed to more than just conservation. They have planted an additional 336 trees and are nurturing 2,500 seedlings (currently one meter tall) for future expansion. This initiative is part of the Plant Genetic Conservation Project under the Royal Initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, the Princess Royal, which the University of Phayao proudly supports.

From the Wild to the Lab: The Science of Scent

     Beyond the sheer number of trees, the most exciting developments are happening within the laboratories of the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences. A research team led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Jukkarin Srilai from the Department of Cosmetic Science—alongside Asst. Prof. Tammanoon Rungsang, Ranit Charoenjittichai, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Suleeporn Kamchompoo—has spearheaded the project: "Development of Perfume Products from Golden Gardenia (Phases 1-2)."

     This is far more than a simple extraction of floral notes. It is a rigorous scientific study to determine how to extract the highest quality essential oils, identify their biological properties, ensure safety, and understand consumer preferences.

     The team experimented with various methods, including solvent maceration, modern cold enfleurage, and Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE), which utilizes  as a green alternative to chemical solvents. The results showed that the SFE method yielded essential oils with the highest antioxidant activity, suggesting that the fragrance may offer skin-beneficial properties in addition to its scent.

Tested for Perfection, Proven for Safety

The research culminated in four distinct perfume formulas, which were tested on 180 volunteers using the JAR (Just About Right) Scale. This sensory evaluation tool measures consumer satisfaction regarding specific characteristics—such as freshness, sweetness, relaxation, and alertness—to determine if the intensity is "just right" or needs adjustment. All four formulas received over 50% satisfaction, with formula F01 emerging as the favorite at 64%.

Regarding safety, the products underwent a 4-hour closed patch test on 22 volunteers to monitor for irritation over 24 and 48 hours. The results confirmed that the products are non-irritating. This success has led to three petty patent applications with the Department of Intellectual Property, covering hair conditioners, skin nourishing cream-gels, and liquid soaps infused with Golden Gardenia fragrance.

KOSSUP: The Essence of Phayao in a Bottle

     These breakthroughs have been brought to life under the brand "KOSSUP" with the collection "PERFUME sets the scent of GOLDEN GARDENIA." The collection features four signature scents, each designed to tell a different story of the University of Phayao:

• Soliflore: The signature scent of the Golden Gardenia—the symbolic flower of the university—offering a perfectly balanced sweetness.
• Chypre: A sophisticated, classic, and luxurious scent tailored for the modern, refined gentleman.
• Amber: A versatile, gender-neutral fragrance. It suits the confident, trend-setting man with a warm personality, as well as the active, professional woman.
• Floral: A sweet, charming, and captivating scent designed for the modern woman.

     Every bottle features the Golden Gardenia essential oil as its heart, backed by scientifically proven extraction methods and rigorous safety testing.

Sustainability: Protecting the Source

     None of this would be possible if the Golden Gardenia were to disappear from our forests. This is why conservation is about more than aesthetics or pride—it is about protecting our "natural capital." If these resources vanish, no lab in the world can recreate this scent from scratch. By planting more trees and creating sustainable green spaces, the University of Phayao is not just improving its landscape; it is investing in a future where everyone shares the benefits.

     It is remarkable that a tree once growing quietly in the wild before the university's birth has now become its symbol - a source of patented research and world-class products. KOSSUP is proof that Thailand has many "hidden treasures" waiting to be discovered. Sometimes, the most valuable things aren't far away; they are growing in the heart of our forests or even in our own backyards, waiting for someone to see their worth. The scent of Phayao is no longer confined to the woods; it has been distilled by modern science into a glass bottle, ready to carry the spirit of Northern Thailand to every corner of the globe.