Grapefruit oil terpenes (CAS 68917-32-8) — Citrus Top Note Fragrance Ingredient
Grapefruit oil terpenes
CAS 68917-32-8
What Is Grapefruit oil terpenes?
Grapefruit oil terpenes are the natural aromatic compounds found in grapefruit peel. People encounter them in citrus-scented cleaning products, fresh perfumes, and aromatherapy oils. This ingredient matters because it provides the bright, uplifting top notes that make citrus fragrances feel energizing and clean, while also offering natural antimicrobial properties.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Grapefruit oil terpenes Smell Like?
A burst of freshly-peeled grapefruit with juicy, tart top notes that evolve into a greener, slightly bitter rind character. The dry-down reveals subtle woody undertones reminiscent of sun-warmed citrus groves. Like biting into a ripe grapefruit where the initial sweetness quickly gives way to complex pithy bitterness.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used for its sparkling citrus opening that blends seamlessly with mint and bergamot, creating an effervescent cologne effect.
Provides the crisp, refreshing top note that contrasts with the aquatic heart, mimicking Mediterranean citrus groves.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Grapefruit oil terpenes are primarily composed of limonene (up to 95%), with smaller amounts of myrcene, pinene, and other monoterpenes. These volatile compounds are extracted through cold pressing of the fruit’s peel. The characteristic aroma comes from trace oxygenated compounds like nootkatone, which provides the distinctive grapefruit character.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 176 °C (limonene) |
|---|---|
| Flash Point | 48 °C |
| Density | 0.84 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 2-5% | Up to 10% | Fresh top notes |
| Household Cleaners | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Provides fresh scent and antimicrobial properties |
Classic Accords
Tip: Stabilize with antioxidants to prevent oxidation of terpenes.
Alternatives & Comparisons
When you need just the pure citrus component without grapefruit’s bitter nuances.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under IFRA standards. Phototoxicity concerns addressed through typical use levels.
EU Allergen Declaration
Limonene >100ppm must be declared due to oxidation products.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment complete – safe at current use levels.
Sustainability
Sustainably sourced from citrus industry byproducts. Cold-pressed extraction is energy efficient. Synthetic alternatives exist but lack complexity.
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References
- Burdock, G.A. (2010). Fenaroli’s Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. CRC Press.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 68917-32-8Physical 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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