Hierochloe alpina absolute (CAS 92128-62-6) — Green Heart Note Fragrance Ingredient

Green · Sweet

Hierochloe alpina absolute

CAS 92128-62-6

Origin
natural
Note
Heart
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Hierochloe alpina absolute?

Hierochloe alpina absolute is a rare natural extract from alpine sweetgrass, primarily encountered in niche perfumery and aromatherapy products. Its unique scent profile makes it valuable for creating atmospheric fragrances that evoke mountain meadows. This ingredient matters because it offers perfumers an authentic ‘alpine accord’ that synthetic molecules struggle to replicate, capturing the crisp freshness of high-altitude flora.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
No known major restrictions
Rarely tested – use caution in leave-on products
CAS
92128-62-6
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Green · Sweet
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Hierochloe alpina absolute Smell Like?

Imagine dew-laden grass at sunrise with a honeyed hay undertone – Hierochloe alpina absolute opens with a crisp green top note reminiscent of crushed alpine herbs. As it develops, a delicate coumarin-like sweetness emerges, like sun-warmed grass with whispers of vanilla. The drydown reveals subtle earthy tones, creating an effect akin to walking through a high-altitude meadow where cool air carries floral nuances.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Scent of Mountains(Alpine Aromatics, 2018)

Used at 2% to create the signature ‘alpine breeze’ accord, blending with juniper and rockrose to simulate high-altitude freshness.

Meadow Memory(Botanical Perfumes, 2020)

Provides the authentic grassy heart note in this solifloral composition, complementing wild chamomile absolute.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Hierochloe alpina absolute contains complex mixtures of coumarins, phenolic compounds, and sesquiterpenes characteristic of alpine grasses. The extraction process (typically ethanol or supercritical CO2) preserves delicate volatile compounds that contribute to its fresh-cut grass character. Key odorants include hexenyl esters and coumarin derivatives that develop the characteristic sweet hay aroma upon drying.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceViscous greenish liquid
SolubilitySoluble in ethanol, partially soluble in oils

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Heart
Volatility
Moderate (2-4 hours)
Blending
Good for fresh-green accords
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.5-2%Up to 5%Adds naturalistic green nuances
Aromatherapy1-3%Up to 10%Used for its calming alpine character

Classic Accords

Tip: Use sparingly in fougère bases to add authentic grassy depth without overwhelming floral notes.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Coumarin CAS 91-64-5

Provides similar sweet hay notes but lacks the fresh green character of the absolute.

2
Vetiveryl acetate CAS 62563-80-8

Offers grassy-green elements with better stability in citrus-heavy formulations.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

Not currently restricted by IFRA.

RIFM Assessment

No formal RIFM assessment exists for this rarely used absolute.

Sustainability

Wild harvesting of Hierochloe alpina requires careful management to prevent over-collection in fragile alpine ecosystems. Some producers now cultivate specific varieties to reduce environmental impact. CO2 extraction methods offer more sustainable processing than traditional solvent extraction.

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References

  1. Alpine Flora Database (2021). Hierochloe Species Profiles. Botanical Reference

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

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