Cajuput oil (CAS 8008-98-8) — Woody Top to Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Cajuput oil
CAS 8008-98-8
What Is Cajuput oil?
Cajuput oil is a natural essential oil derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca cajuputi tree, commonly found in Southeast Asia. It is used in aromatherapy, topical ointments, and some fragrances. This oil is valued for its fresh, camphoraceous scent and therapeutic properties, often used to relieve respiratory issues and muscle pain.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Cajuput oil Smell Like?
Cajuput oil has a fresh, camphoraceous aroma with a slightly sweet, medicinal undertone. The top note is sharp and invigorating, reminiscent of eucalyptus but softer. The heart note reveals a subtle floral warmth, while the dry-down is clean and slightly woody. Its scent evolves from brisk and cooling to a comforting, herbal finish.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Cajuput oil adds a refreshing, herbal-camphoraceous note to this energizing fragrance, complementing citrus and woody accords for a revitalizing effect.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Cajuput oil is primarily composed of 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), along with α-terpineol and limonene. It is extracted via steam distillation from the leaves of Melaleuca cajuputi. The oil’s therapeutic properties are largely attributed to its high cineole content, which also contributes to its characteristic aroma.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 176-177 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.912-0.925 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aromatherapy | 1-2% | Up to 5% | Used for its therapeutic properties |
| Topical Ointments | 0.5-1% | Up to 2% | Diluted for skin safety |
Classic Accords
Tip: Blend with citrus or herbal notes to enhance its fresh, camphoraceous character.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Similar camphoraceous scent but stronger; use when a more intense aroma is desired.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under IFRA standards.
EU Allergen Declaration
None
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment confirms safety for current use levels.
Sustainability
Cajuput oil is sustainably harvested from wild and cultivated trees in Southeast Asia. The production supports local communities and has minimal environmental impact when responsibly sourced.
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References
- PubChem: Cajuput Oil PubChem
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 8008-98-8Odor & Flavor
| The oil, obtained from the distillation of the leaves and twigs, has an agreeable, penetrating, camphoraceous odor and aromatic bitter taste. Most commercial Cajeput oil comes from the tree M. leucadendron. Apart from its use as general household remedies for colds, throat irritation, pain, headache, etc., in the Far East, Cajeput oil has found very little use in Europe and America.📖 Fenaroli |
Regulatory Status
| IOFI Classification | Natural📖 Fenaroli |
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.
