Cedarwood extract, Texas (CAS 68990-83-0) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Cedarwood extract, Texas
CAS 68990-83-0
What Is Cedarwood extract, Texas?
Texas cedarwood extract comes from the Juniperus ashei tree native to the southwestern United States. You’ll encounter its warm, woody scent in candles, men’s colognes, and natural insect repellents. This ingredient matters because it provides an affordable, sustainable alternative to endangered cedar species while delivering a distinctive dry-wood character with subtle smoky undertones.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Cedarwood extract, Texas Smell Like?
Texas cedarwood opens with crisp pencil-shaving sharpness, evolving into a dry, slightly resinous heart reminiscent of sun-baked canyon walls. Unlike Himalayan cedar’s sweetness, this variant carries a rugged, almost leathery quality with faint camphoraceous edges. The dry-down reveals its true character – a linear, persistent woodiness with whispers of tobacco leaf and vetiver-like earthiness. Its relatively simple odor profile makes it an excellent blender that won’t overpower compositions.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used for its dry, mineralic wood character that complements the flint accord, providing an American twist to the traditional vetiver-cedar base.
Texas cedarwood adds ruggedness to the vetiver core, creating an ink-like dryness that contrasts with the smoother Virginia cedar elements.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Texas cedarwood oil primarily contains cedrene isomers (α-cedrene and β-cedrene) along with thujopsene and widdrol. These sesquiterpenes are responsible for its distinctive dry-woody character. The extract is typically produced through steam distillation of heartwood, yielding a pale yellow to amber liquid. Unlike Atlas cedar, Texas cedarwood contains higher proportions of cedrol, contributing to its excellent fixative properties.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Pale yellow to amber liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | 260-280 °C |
| Density | 0.945-0.965 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | 1.495-1.505 |
Key Constituent Properties
| Constituent | CAS | MW | BP °C | XLogP | Vapor P. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| α-Cedrene | 469-61-4 | 204.35 | 260 | 5.2 | 0.01 mmHg |
| β-Cedrene | 546-28-1 | 204.35 | 265 | 5.1 | 0.01 mmHg |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 2-5% | Up to 10% | Provides dry woody foundation |
| Home Fragrance | 3-7% | Up to 15% | Excellent for masculine candle scents |
Classic Accords
Tip: Pre-dilute to 10% in DEP for easier blending of this viscous material.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Softer, more pencil-like character with less smokiness. Use when needing a smoother cedar note.
More expensive but offers sweeter, more complex wood profile with honeyed facets.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions. Listed on IFRA Transparency List under cedarwood oils.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment confirms safe use at current industry levels.
Sustainability
Texas cedarwood is considered a sustainable choice as Juniperus ashei trees are fast-growing and abundant in their native habitat. The extraction process requires only fallen wood or managed harvesting, making it more environmentally friendly than some endangered cedar species. Most commercial production occurs through responsible wildcrafting in Texas.
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References
- Lawrence, B.M. (2013). Cedarwood Oils. Essential Oils 2007-2011. DOI:10.1016/B978-0-444-59562-1.00018-5
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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