Mentha arvensis oil (CAS 68917-18-0) — Green Top Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Green · Sweet

Mentha arvensis oil

CAS 68917-18-0

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

What Is Mentha arvensis oil?

Mentha arvensis oil is a natural essential oil derived from wild mint plants. It’s commonly found in chewing gums, toothpaste, and aromatherapy products. This oil matters because it provides a fresh, cooling sensation and has been used traditionally for its soothing properties.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Safe in regulated products
⚠ May cause skin irritation in high concentrations
CAS
68917-18-0
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Green · Sweet
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Mentha arvensis oil Smell Like?

Mentha arvensis oil opens with an intensely fresh, green, and slightly sweet minty aroma. The heart reveals a crisp, herbaceous character with subtle earthy undertones. The dry-down is clean and cooling, leaving a refreshing trail. It evokes the sensation of walking through a dew-covered meadow at dawn.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Cool Water(Davidoff, 1988)

Used to enhance the fresh, aquatic top notes, providing a crisp, invigorating opening.

Aqua di Gio(Giorgio Armani, 1996)

Adds a natural, green minty accent to the citrusy top notes.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Mentha arvensis oil is rich in menthol, which is responsible for its characteristic cooling effect. The oil also contains menthone, isomenthone, and limonene. These compounds are typically extracted through steam distillation of the aerial parts of the plant.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Boiling Point212 °C
Density0.890 g/cm³

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Top
Volatility
Medium (60-120 min)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance1-3%Up to 5%Adds freshness
Oral Care0.5-1%Up to 2%Provides cooling effect

Classic Accords

+ Eucalyptus + Rosemary = Herbal + Lemon + Bergamot = Citrus Fresh

Tip: Use sparingly to avoid overpowering other notes.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Peppermint Oil CAS 8006-90-4

Provides a stronger, sharper mint note for more intense formulations.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

No restrictions under IFRA standards.

EU Allergen Declaration

None

RIFM Assessment

RIFM assessment confirms safe use at current levels.

Sustainability

Wild mint is a renewable resource, but sustainable harvesting practices are essential to prevent overharvesting. Synthetic alternatives are available but lack the complexity of natural oil.

Explore Mentha arvensis oil

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References

  1. PubChem. Mentha arvensis oil. PubChem

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

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