(+)-epi–Bisabolol (CAS 76738-75-5) — Floral Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Floral · Sweet

(+)-epi-_-Bisabolol

CAS 76738-75-5

Origin
synthetic
Note
Base
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is (+)-epi-_-Bisabolol?

(+)-epi-α-Bisabolol is a naturally occurring monocyclic sesquiterpene alcohol found in chamomile and other plants. It’s used in skincare for its soothing properties and in fragrances for its mild, sweet, floral-woody aroma. This ingredient matters because it combines therapeutic benefits with subtle fragrance enhancement, making it popular in ‘clean beauty’ products.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Non-irritating to skin
✓ No known allergens
CAS
76738-75-5
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Floral · Sweet
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does (+)-epi-_-Bisabolol Smell Like?

A delicate balance of floral sweetness and creamy woodiness, like chamomile tea steeping in a cedarwood box. The scent unfolds with a soft powdery nuance reminiscent of baby products, settling into a comforting skin-like warmth. Its subtlety makes it an ideal base for enhancing other notes without overpowering them.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

(+)-epi-α-Bisabolol is a sesquiterpene alcohol with four stereocenters. The (+)-epi form differs from α-bisabolol in its stereochemistry at C7. Industrially produced via stereoselective synthesis from farnesyl derivatives or by microbial transformation. Its chirality significantly impacts both biological activity and odor profile, with the (+)-epi form being more thermally stable than other isomers.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Molecular Weight222.37 g/mol
Boiling Point153-154°C at 12 mmHg
Optical Rotation+51.5° (c=1, CHCl3)

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Low (6+ hours)
Blending
Excellent
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Skincare Fragrance0.5-2%Up to 5%Adds subtle scent to sensitive skin products
Aromatherapy1-3%Up to 10%Enhances relaxation blends

Classic Accords

Tip: Use to round off sharp edges in citrus or herbal compositions.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
α-Bisabolol CAS 515-69-5

The more common isomer with similar properties but slightly different odor profile.

2
Bisabolol oxide CAS 14049-83-7

Oxidized form with reduced fragrance impact but increased stability in formulations.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

No restrictions. IFRA compliant without limitations.

RIFM Assessment

RIFM assessment confirms safety for current use levels in cosmetics.

Sustainability

While naturally occurring in chamomile, commercial production is typically synthetic for consistency and yield. The synthetic route reduces agricultural land use compared to plant extraction. Biocatalytic production methods are being developed to improve green chemistry metrics.

Explore (+)-epi-_-Bisabolol

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References

  1. PubChem Compound Summary for (+)-epi-α-Bisabolol CID 1549992
  2. Bickers et al. (2005). Safety assessment of bisabolols. Food Chem Toxicol. PMID 15979247

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

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