Clove bud oil terpenes (CAS 68917-29-3) — Spicy Heart to base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Clove bud oil terpenes
CAS 68917-29-3
What Is Clove bud oil terpenes?
Clove bud oil terpenes are aromatic compounds naturally found in clove buds, the unopened flower buds of the clove tree. People encounter them in spices, dental products, and fragrances, where they contribute a warm, spicy aroma with medicinal undertones. These terpenes matter because they provide the signature scent profile of clove, a note cherished in perfumery for its depth and complexity. Their rich, spicy character makes them indispensable in oriental and holiday-themed fragrances, evoking warmth and nostalgia.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Clove bud oil terpenes Smell Like?
Clove bud oil terpenes burst with an intense, warm spiciness reminiscent of freshly ground cloves, layered with a subtle sweetness and medicinal edge. The top note is sharp and slightly camphoraceous, evolving into a deep, rich heart of warm, woody spice with hints of dried fruit. The dry-down is long-lasting, leaving a comforting, resinous trail with faint smoky undertones. This complex profile makes it a cornerstone in spicy and oriental accords, adding depth and a nostalgic warmth that lingers on the skin.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Clove bud oil terpenes amplify the spicy, exotic heart of Opium, blending with cinnamon and patchouli to create a seductive, intoxicating warmth.
Used sparingly to add a subtle spicy lift to the floral bouquet, enhancing its timeless elegance.
Contributes to the bold, spicy-oriental character, pairing with vanilla and amber for a sensual, long-lasting dry-down.
Adds a medicinal-spicy nuance to the classic fougère structure, balancing lavender and bergamot with depth.
Essential for the fiery spice accord, blending with cinnamon and patchouli to evoke ancient incense rituals.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Clove bud oil terpenes are primarily composed of eugenol, a phenylpropene derivative, alongside β-caryophyllene and α-humulene. These compounds are extracted via steam distillation of clove buds (Syzygium aromaticum). Eugenol dominates the profile, contributing the characteristic spicy-phenolic odor. β-Caryophyllene adds woody, peppery nuances, while α-humulene provides subtle earthy tones. The terpenes’ chiral centers influence their olfactory properties, with natural extracts often exhibiting higher sensory potency than synthetic equivalents due to enantiomeric purity.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | Not specified |
|---|---|
| Density | Not specified |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Adds spicy depth to oriental and woody accords |
| Home Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 3% | Enhances warm, festive atmospheres |
| Personal Care | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used in low doses for its antiseptic properties |
| Flavor | 0.01-0.1% | Up to 0.2% | Adds warm spice notes to food and beverages |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use in trace amounts to avoid overpowering blends; pairs beautifully with sweet and resinous notes.
Alternatives & Comparisons
A purified form of clove’s main constituent, offering a cleaner spicy note without the full complexity of the oil.
A softer, sweeter alternative with less medicinal harshness, ideal for floral-spicy accords.
Isolated woody-peppery note from clove, useful for adding depth without the phenolic edge of eugenol.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not restricted under current IFRA standards, but eugenol content requires declaration due to allergen potential.
EU Allergen Declaration
Eugenol must be declared in EU cosmetics when concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on or 0.01% in rinse-off products.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM considers clove bud oil safe for use in fragrances at current levels, with eugenol content monitored for sensitization risk.
Sustainability
Clove bud oil is sustainably harvested from tropical regions, primarily Indonesia and Madagascar. Steam distillation is energy-intensive but yields a high-value product. Synthetic alternatives exist but lack the full sensory profile of natural extracts. Overharvesting is mitigated by regulated farming practices.
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References
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 68917-29-3Physical data: PubChem (NIH/NLM), U.S. EPA CompTox Dashboard, EPA OPERA models, RDKit. Odor & flavor: Arctander (Perfume & Flavor Chemicals), Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, Leffingwell. Thresholds: van Gemert (Compilations of Odour Threshold Values). Regulatory: IFRA Standards 51st, FEMA GRAS. Trade names: Surburg (Common Fragrance & Flavor Materials). All data compiled and cross-referenced for perfumertools.com.
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