Arnica resinoid (CAS 8057-65-6) — Balsamic Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Arnica resinoid
CAS 8057-65-6
What Is Arnica resinoid?
Arnica resinoid is a natural extract derived from the flowers of Arnica montana, commonly found in alpine regions. It’s used in niche perfumery and herbal products. This ingredient matters for its unique balsamic-green character that adds depth to fougère and chypre compositions, though it’s less common than mainstream floral absolutes.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Arnica resinoid Smell Like?
Arnica resinoid unfolds with an initial medicinal-herbal punch reminiscent of chamomile tea steeping in a pine forest. The heart reveals a complex balsamic warmth with hints of dried apricot skin and antique leather books. As it dries down, it leaves a persistent hay-like earthiness with subtle vanillic undertones that cling to skin like mountain mist.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used for its rustic leathery facets that complement the citrus-spice structure, adding an unconventional herbal roughness to this classic cologne.
Provides an earthy counterpoint to the lavender-vanilla accord, enhancing the perfume’s pioneering use of synthetic-aromatic contrasts.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Arnica resinoid is a complex mixture of sesquiterpene lactones (helenalin derivatives), flavonoids, and phenolic acids extracted via solvent from dried flower heads. The extraction process concentrates the lipophilic compounds responsible for its tenacious odor profile. Key odorants include thymol derivatives and various monoterpenes that survive the extraction process.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Viscous dark brown liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, fixed oils |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used as accent note |
| Functional Fragrance | Not recommended | N/A | Potential sensitization risk |
Classic Accords
Tip: Always pre-dilute to 10% in ethanol before incorporating to ensure even distribution.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Offers similar herbal-balsamic profile with lower sensitization risk, though lacks arnica’s distinctive leathery depth.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted by IFRA but use is discouraged due to potential sensitization concerns.
EU Allergen Declaration
Contains sesquiterpene lactones which may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has flagged sesquiterpene lactones in arnica as potential sensitizers requiring further study.
Sustainability
Wild arnica is protected in many European countries due to overharvesting. Sustainable cultivation practices are emerging but most commercial material still comes from wildcrafted sources. The solvent extraction process has higher environmental impact than steam distillation.
Explore Arnica resinoid
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References
- Willuhn G. (2002). Arnica montana – Portrait einer Heilpflanze. Deutsche Apotheker Zeitung.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 8057-65-6Physical 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.
