Clove, extract, acetylated (CAS 91771-52-7) — Spicy Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient

Spicy · Balsamic

Clove, extract, acetylated

CAS 91771-52-7

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

What Is Clove, extract, acetylated?

Acetylated clove extract is a modified version of natural clove oil, often used in perfumes and flavored products. It’s created by chemically altering clove’s main components to enhance stability and scent profile. This ingredient matters because it delivers clove’s warm, spicy character without some of the skin sensitivity issues of raw clove oil.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
Modified for reduced irritation
Monitor for skin sensitivity
CAS
91771-52-7
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Spicy · Balsamic
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Clove, extract, acetylated Smell Like?

Acetylated clove extract opens with a burst of warm, medicinal spice – imagine biting into a clove-studded orange peel. The sharp phenolic edge of natural clove is rounded by a creamy, almost vanillic sweetness from the acetylation. As it dries, it reveals a woody-balsamic depth reminiscent of antique furniture polish, with lingering notes of dried tobacco leaves and faint cinnamon. The modification creates a longer-lasting scent trail than natural clove, with less volatility in the top notes.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Opium(Yves Saint Laurent, 1977)

Used here for its warm spice that blends seamlessly with amber and vanilla, creating the iconic oriental accord without clove’s harsh phenolic edge.

Jicky(Guerlain, 1889)

The acetylated version provides longevity to the clove note in this fougère masterpiece, complementing lavender and vanilla in the base.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Acetylated clove extract is produced by esterifying eugenol (clove’s main component) with acetic anhydride. This converts phenolic hydroxyl groups into acetate esters, reducing skin sensitivity while maintaining the core scent profile. The process typically yields a mixture of acetylated compounds including eugenol acetate, with improved solubility in alcohol bases compared to raw clove oil.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearancePale yellow to amber liquid
SolubilitySoluble in alcohol and oils

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Middle
Volatility
Moderate (2-4 hours)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance1-3%Up to 5%Spice modifier in oriental accords
Home Fragrance0.5-2%Up to 3%Provides warm depth

Classic Accords

Tip: Use to build warmth in amber bases without the phenolic sharpness of natural clove.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Eugenol CAS 97-53-0

For stronger clove character when skin sensitivity isn’t a concern.

2
Isoeugenol CAS 97-54-1

Provides similar spice with more floral nuance.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

Not specifically restricted under IFRA standards.

EU Allergen Declaration

May require declaration if residual eugenol exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products.

GHS Classification

H315 Skin irritation H319 Eye irritation

RIFM Assessment

Considered safe at current usage levels based on modified clove oil assessments.

Sustainability

Synthetic modification reduces the need for high-volume clove harvesting. The acetylation process is energy-intensive but allows more efficient use of agricultural resources.

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References

  1. Burdock, G.A. (2010). Fenaroli’s Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. CRC Press.

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

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