Gurjun Balsam Oil (CAS 8030-55-5) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Gurjun Balsam Oil
CAS 8030-55-5
What Is Gurjun Balsam Oil?
Gurjun Balsam Oil is a rich, woody resin extracted from Dipterocarpus trees in Southeast Asia. It’s used in traditional medicines and as a fixative in perfumery. This balsamic oil adds depth and longevity to fragrances, often found in oriental and woody compositions where its warm, earthy character enhances base notes.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Gurjun Balsam Oil Smell Like?
Gurjun Balsam Oil unfolds with an initial burst of dry, woody warmth reminiscent of antique cedar chests and aged parchment. The heart reveals complex balsamic undertones – imagine dark honey dripping over weathered leather, with faint whispers of camphoraceous depth. As it dries down, it leaves a resinous trail that blends seamlessly with other base notes, adding remarkable tenacity to fragrance compositions. Its character evolves from slightly medicinal to profoundly comforting, like the scent of an ancient apothecary’s wooden drawers.
Scent Profile
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a balsamic fixative that complements the vanilla and amber, adding woody depth to this oriental masterpiece.
Provides resinous warmth that anchors the spicy floral bouquet, creating the signature sultry dry-down.
Contributes to the woody-ambery accord that makes this masculine fragrance so distinctive and long-lasting.
Enhances the resinous amber core with its dry woody character, creating a medieval apothecary effect.
Adds woody depth to the tobacco accord, balancing the sweetness of vanilla with dry balsamic nuances.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Gurjun Balsam Oil is a complex natural mixture primarily composed of sesquiterpenes, with cadinene isomers being predominant. The oil is obtained through steam distillation of the resin from Dipterocarpus species. Its chemical profile varies by geographic origin but typically contains α-gurjunene, γ-gurjunene, and other cadinene derivatives. These bicyclic sesquiterpenes contribute to its woody-balsamic character. The resin also contains oxygenated compounds that add depth to its olfactory profile. Unlike single molecules, this natural extract’s chiral composition varies between batches, creating subtle differences in scent profiles.
Chemical Composition
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Pale yellow to amber viscous liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | 250-300 °C (estimated) |
| Density | 0.90-0.95 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | 1.500-1.510 |
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol, insoluble in water |
Key Constituent Properties
| Constituent | CAS | MW | BP °C | XLogP | Vapor P. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| α-Gurjunene | 489-40-7 | 204.35 | 254-256 °C | 6.2 | 0.001 mmHg |
| γ-Gurjunene | 22567-17-5 | 204.35 | 252-254 °C | 6.1 | 0.001 mmHg |
| δ-Cadinene | 483-76-1 | 204.35 | 274-276 °C | 6.3 | 0.001 mmHg |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Used as balsamic fixative in oriental compositions |
| Soap | 0.5-1% | Up to 2% | Adds woody depth to masculine soap bases |
| Candles | 2-4% | Up to 6% | Provides excellent scent throw in woody home fragrances |
| Incense | 5-10% | Up to 15% | Traditional use in resinous incense blends |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use sparingly in top-heavy compositions to add subtle woody-balsamic depth without overwhelming brighter notes.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Milder balsamic alternative with less woody character, suitable when a softer resinous effect is desired.
Synthetic woody alternative with similar dry-down characteristics but cleaner top notes.
Lighter woody option when Gurjun’s resinous depth might overwhelm delicate compositions.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. IFRA, REACH, EU Cosmetics Regulation standards update periodically. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating. Not legal or regulatory advice.
IFRA Status
No specific IFRA restrictions. General guidelines for balsamic oils apply (IFRA Category 4).
EU Allergen Declaration
Not listed in EU allergen declaration requirements.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has evaluated Gurjun Balsam Oil as safe for use in current practices when used at typical levels.
Sustainability
Gurjun Balsam is harvested sustainably from wild trees in Southeast Asia through controlled tapping that doesn’t harm the trees. However, deforestation in native regions threatens some Dipterocarpus species. Synthetic alternatives exist but lack the complexity of natural Gurjun. Responsible sourcing programs help maintain ecological balance while supporting local communities.
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References
- Lawless, J. (1995). The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils. Element Books.
- Arctander, S. (1960). Perfume and Flavor Materials of Natural Origin. Allured Publishing.
- Burdock, G.A. (2010). Fenaroli’s Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. CRC Press.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Mar 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 8030-55-5Physical 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.
