Eucalyptus globulus absolute (CAS 97926-40-4) — Green Top-middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Eucalyptus globulus absolute
CAS 97926-40-4
What Is Eucalyptus globulus absolute?
Eucalyptus globulus absolute is a concentrated aromatic extract from the leaves of the blue gum eucalyptus tree. People encounter it in cough drops, chest rubs, and invigorating spa products. This ingredient matters because it delivers the instantly recognizable crisp, medicinal aroma of eucalyptus that clears sinuses and refreshes spaces.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Eucalyptus globulus absolute Smell Like?
The absolute bursts with an intense camphoraceous punch – like menthol’s sharper cousin – followed by piercing cineolic freshness that conjures hospital corridors. Beneath the medicinal blast lies a subtle woody-green undertone reminiscent of crushed leaves after rain. As it dries, the harshness mellows into a clean, slightly sweet herbal character that lingers with a cooling sensation.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used here for its energizing properties, cutting through the citrus top notes with a bracing medicinal quality that enhances the ‘healthful’ positioning of this aromatherapeutic fragrance.
Showcases the absolute’s cooling properties alongside peppermint, creating a spa-like experience where the eucalyptus provides structural depth to prevent the mint from becoming toothpaste-like.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Eucalyptus globulus absolute contains 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) as its dominant constituent (70-85%), along with α-pinene, limonene, and globulol. The extraction process typically involves solvent extraction of dried leaves followed by ethanol washing to remove waxes. Unlike steam-distilled eucalyptus oil, the absolute retains more of the heavier sesquiterpenes that modify the harshness of the cineole.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Viscous greenish liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol, insoluble in water |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aromatherapy | 1-3% | Up to 5% | For respiratory products |
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-1% | Up to 2% | As fresh modifier |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use sparingly in fine fragrance – 0.2% can dominate a composition with its medicinal character.
Alternatives & Comparisons
A gentler eucalyptus variety with less harshness, preferred when the medicinal punch needs softening while maintaining respiratory benefits.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions. Cineole-rich oils are limited to 2.5% in leave-on products due to potential skin irritation (IFRA Cat 5).
EU Allergen Declaration
Contains limonene which requires allergen labeling above 0.001% in leave-on products.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM considers eucalyptus oils safe at current use levels, with cineole being the primary safety consideration.
Sustainability
Eucalyptus is fast-growing and cultivated worldwide, though Australian old-growth forest harvesting remains controversial. Most commercial production now comes from plantations in China and Portugal. Absolute yields are lower than steam distillation, making it more resource-intensive.
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References
- Guenther, E. (1952). The Essential Oils. D. Van Nostrand Company.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 97926-40-4Physical 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.
