Lime oil distilled (CAS 8008-26-2) — Citrus Top Note Fragrance Ingredient
Lime oil distilled
CAS 8008-26-2
What Is Lime oil distilled?
Lime oil distilled is the essential oil extracted from the peel of fresh limes through steam distillation. You’ll find it in citrus-scented cleaning products, fresh colognes, and summer body care lines. This bright, tangy oil captures the energetic spirit of fresh limes without the phototoxic risks of cold-pressed versions. Lime oil matters because it delivers a crisp, uplifting citrus note that blends beautifully with other fresh ingredients. It’s a go-to for creating sparkling top notes in fragrances and invigorating aromatherapy blends.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Lime oil distilled Smell Like?
Distilled lime oil bursts with an intensely fresh, zesty citrus aroma – like peeling a perfectly ripe lime with juice spraying into the air. The top note is electric and slightly metallic, with a clean green undertone that distinguishes it from sweeter citrus oils. As it evolves, the heart reveals a subtle floral nuance and a crisp, almost mineral-like quality. The dry-down is surprisingly persistent for a citrus oil, leaving a clean, slightly woody-green trace rather than fading completely. Unlike the warmer, juicier character of cold-pressed lime, the distilled version maintains a sharper, more focused citrus profile throughout its evolution.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Distilled lime oil provides the sparkling citrus introduction in this classic fougère, contrasting beautifully with the herbal rosemary and earthy oakmoss to create a timeless freshness.
The distilled lime in this Italian cologne blends with bergamot and lavender for a bright opening that defines the Mediterranean citrus cologne genre.
Distilled lime oil contributes to the aquatic citrus top notes in this modern classic, adding realism to the watery floral composition.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Distilled lime oil is a complex mixture of volatile compounds primarily composed of limonene (45-65%), β-pinene (10-20%), γ-terpinene (8-15%), and citral (3-6%). The steam distillation process selectively concentrates these lighter terpenes while leaving behind heavier, potentially phototoxic compounds like bergapten found in cold-pressed oils. The terpene profile varies significantly based on lime cultivar (Key lime vs Persian lime), ripeness at harvest, and distillation parameters. Unlike cold-pressed oils, distilled versions contain minimal non-volatile waxes or pigments, resulting in a clearer oil with different olfactory characteristics.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Pale yellow to greenish liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | 175-185 °C (main components) |
| Flash Point | 48 °C |
| Density | 0.855-0.865 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | 1.474-1.486 |
| Optical Rotation | +35° to +45° |
Key Constituent Properties
| Constituent | CAS | MW | BP °C | XLogP | Vapor P. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Limonene | 138-86-3 | 136.23 | 175 | 4.3 | 1.5 mmHg |
| β-Pinene | 127-91-3 | 136.23 | 166 | 3.2 | 2.5 mmHg |
| γ-Terpinene | 99-85-4 | 136.23 | 183 | 3.8 | 1.2 mmHg |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Citrus top note component |
| Household Cleaners | 0.5-1% | Up to 2% | Freshness booster |
| Personal Care | 0.2-0.5% | Up to 1% | Invigorating scent |
| Aromatherapy | 1-2% | Up to 3% | Uplifting blends |
Classic Accords
Tip: Stabilize with antioxidants like tocopherol to prevent terpene oxidation which can create off-notes over time.
Alternatives & Comparisons
For richer, juicier lime character when phototoxicity isn’t a concern. Contains additional non-volatile compounds that modify scent profile.
Synthetic alternative with extreme tenacity, used to extend citrus notes in drydown. More metallic and less juicy than natural oil.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions. Distilled lime oil is preferred over cold-pressed in cosmetics due to absence of phototoxic furocoumarins.
EU Allergen Declaration
Contains limonene which requires allergen labeling above 100 ppm in leave-on and 10 ppm in rinse-off products.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment confirms safe use at current industry levels. Skin sensitization potential noted but low risk at typical concentrations.
Sustainability
Lime oil production utilizes waste citrus peels from juice industry, making it a byproduct valorization success. Most commercial production comes from Mexico and Brazil where lime cultivation is water-intensive but provides important agricultural jobs. Synthetic alternatives exist but lack the complexity of natural oil. Steam distillation energy requirements are moderate compared to solvent extraction methods.
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References
- Dugo, G., & Di Giacomo, A. (2002). Citrus: The genus Citrus. CRC Press. ISBN 9780203216613
- Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety. Elsevier. ISBN 9780443062414
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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