Castoreum is a natural substance derived from the glands of beavers, specifically from the castor sacs located near their tails. It has a strong, musky scent and has been used for centuries in perfumery and flavoring. Castoreum is often extracted through a process that involves collecting the secretion and then processing it for various uses. In addition to its use in perfumes, castoreum has historically been used in food products, particularly in flavoring agents for items like vanilla and raspberry. Although it is less common today due to ethical concerns and the availability of synthetic alternatives, it remains a fascinating example of how animal-derived substances have been utilized in various industries.