04/11/2026
Wildlife Wednesday Beaver Castor!
As every trapper knows beaver castor is used to make a variety of different lures and baits, but did you know it also has other uses too??
Historically, castor was used to treat ailments like headaches and fever because it contains salicylic acid (the same ingredient in aspirin.) It also has been used in food and drinks such as a historical flavoring. that was once used more widely in raspberry, vanilla and strawberry flavorings in syrups, candy and ice cream.
Perfumes are another source that utilizes beaver castor. It acts as a fixative, which helps other scents last longer and adds leathery or musky scent to high end fragrances.
Finally, beaver caster has been utilized as a traditional ingredient in Swedish beaver schnapps. While it is legally approved by the FDA as a natural flavoring it's use in modern products is extremely rare due to high costs and labor required to harvest it. Bottom line the next time you are enjoying an adult beverage (schnapps) or ice cream or complimenting your wife on her new perfume - you can thank the beaver!
