Melilotus officinalis oil (CAS 84082-81-5) — Sweet Heart to base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Melilotus officinalis oil
CAS 84082-81-5
What Is Melilotus officinalis oil?
Melilotus officinalis oil, commonly known as sweet clover oil, is a natural fragrance ingredient derived from yellow sweet clover flowers. It’s often found in herbal and hay-like fragrances. This oil matters because it adds a warm, coumarin-like sweetness to perfumes, evoking nostalgic memories of meadows and sun-dried hay.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Melilotus officinalis oil Smell Like?
The scent of Melilotus officinalis oil unfolds like a summer meadow at golden hour. Initially, a fresh green hay note dominates, reminiscent of sun-warmed grasses. As it evolves, the heart reveals a sweet, vanilla-like coumarin character with subtle floral undertones. The dry-down is a comforting, powdery-woody base that lingers like the memory of a hayloft.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used for its hay-like coumarin sweetness that defines the classic fougère accord, blending with lavender and oakmoss.
Provides a warm, herbaceous counterpoint to the citrus top notes and vanilla base in this groundbreaking oriental.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Melilotus officinalis oil contains coumarin derivatives formed from glycosides during drying. The characteristic sweet hay aroma comes primarily from coumarin (1,2-benzopyrone) and related compounds. These form through enzymatic action when the plant material is wilted, a process similar to that in tonka beans. The oil may also contain small amounts of melilotic acid and flavonoids.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Pale yellow to amber liquid |
|---|---|
| Main Components | Coumarin derivatives |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Adds hay-like warmth |
| Herbal Accords | 2-5% | Up to 8% | Enhances natural character |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use to add natural hay and coumarin sweetness without the intensity of pure coumarin.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No specific restrictions, but coumarin content should be considered under IFRA guidelines for coumarin (Category 4).
EU Allergen Declaration
None for the oil itself, but may contain coumarin which requires declaration.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has evaluated sweet clover oil as safe for use in fragrances at current levels.
Sustainability
Melilotus officinalis is a widely grown forage crop, making its oil relatively sustainable. Wild harvesting should be monitored to prevent over-collection. The coumarin content varies with growing conditions and post-harvest treatment.
Explore Melilotus officinalis oil
Browse essential oils and aroma compounds.
Browse on iHerb →Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
References
- Brunke, E.J. et al. (1992). Flower Scents. Dragoco Report.
- IFRA Standards Library (2023). Coumarin Restriction. IFRA 2023
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data error
![Bicyclo[3.1.1]heptane-2-ethanol, 6,6-dimethyl- (CAS 4747-61-9) — Woody Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient](https://thegoodscents.company/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/bicyclo-3-1-1-heptane-2-ethanol-6-6-dimethyl-1-1-768x439.webp)
