Acorus calamus, ext., hydrogenated (CAS 85480-47-3) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Woody · Balsamic

Acorus calamus, ext., hydrogenated

CAS 85480-47-3

Origin
synthetic
Note
Base
IFRA
Use with awareness
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Acorus calamus, ext., hydrogenated?

Hydrogenated Acorus calamus extract is a refined fragrance material derived from the sweet flag plant. It’s found in niche perfumery and some traditional medicinal products. This processed version eliminates certain natural compounds while preserving a warm, earthy character prized in oriental and woody accords.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
⚠ Contains trace β-asarone – restricted in some markets
✓ Hydrogenation reduces safety concerns
CAS
85480-47-3
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Woody · Balsamic
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Acorus calamus, ext., hydrogenated Smell Like?

A deep, resonant aroma blending damp roots with polished wood. Opens with a faintly medicinal edge that quickly softens into velvety warmth – imagine antique cedar chests lined with dried herbs. The dry-down reveals persistent sweet-woody facets, like aged sandalwood infused with hints of dried citrus peel and distant spice. Exceptionally tenacious, it serves as an organic anchor in complex compositions.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Hydrogenated Acorus calamus extract undergoes catalytic hydrogenation to reduce potentially problematic β-asarone content. The process saturates double bonds in phenylpropanoid compounds while retaining the essential terpenoid backbone. Synthetic versions replicate this profile without plant-derived variability. The material lacks optical activity due to hydrogenation’s stereochemical effects.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceViscous amber liquid
SolubilitySoluble in ethanol and oils

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Very low (24+ hours)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.5-2%Up to 5%Base note fixative
Home Fragrance1-3%Up to 8%Warm woody accent

Classic Accords

Tip: Use with citrus top notes to create intriguing contrast.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Guaiacwood oil CAS 8016-23-7

Similar woody profile without asarone concerns. Better for clean applications.

2
Cedryl acetate CAS 77-54-3

Synthetic alternative with comparable tenacity and wood character.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

No IFRA restrictions (hydrogenated form).

RIFM Assessment

RIFM considers hydrogenated form acceptable at current use levels.

Sustainability

Synthetic production avoids overharvesting of wild Acorus calamus. Hydrogenation reduces waste compared to traditional extraction. Carbon footprint depends on hydrogen source – green hydrogen methods improve sustainability.

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References

    Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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    Ingredient Data Sheet

    CAS 85480-47-3
    Data Sources & Attribution
    Physical 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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