Mentha citrata oil (CAS 68917-15-7) — Citrus Top Note Fragrance Ingredient

Citrus · Floral

Mentha citrata oil

CAS 68917-15-7

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

What Is Mentha citrata oil?

Mentha citrata oil, also known as bergamot mint oil, is a natural essential oil derived from the Mentha citrata plant. It is commonly encountered in aromatherapy, personal care products, and flavorings. This oil is valued for its unique citrusy-minty aroma, which makes it a popular choice for freshening and therapeutic applications.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
Safe in regulated products
Use with caution in high concentrations
CAS
68917-15-7
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Citrus · Floral
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Mentha citrata oil Smell Like?

Mentha citrata oil offers a refreshing, citrusy-minty aroma with a sweet, floral undertone. The top note is bright and invigorating, reminiscent of bergamot with a hint of spearmint. The heart note evolves into a more balanced, herbal-green character, while the base note leaves a subtle, clean freshness. The dry-down is smooth and slightly woody, making it versatile for both top and heart note applications.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Eau de Menthe(L’Occitane, 2010)

A fresh, invigorating fragrance that uses Mentha citrata oil to create a citrusy-minty top note, perfect for summer scents.

Bergamot Mint(Jo Malone, 2015)

This fragrance blends Mentha citrata oil with bergamot for a bright, uplifting aroma that is both refreshing and sophisticated.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Mentha citrata oil is primarily composed of linalool and linalyl acetate, which contribute to its citrusy-floral aroma. These monoterpenoids are synthesized in the plant through the mevalonate pathway. The oil is typically extracted via steam distillation, preserving its volatile aromatic compounds. Chirality plays a role in its scent profile, with the (R)-(-)-linalool isomer being more prevalent and contributing significantly to the fragrance.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Boiling Point198 °C
Density0.865 g/cm³

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Top
Volatility
High (15-60 min)
Blending
Excellent
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance3-8%Up to 15%Versatile top note modifier
Aromatherapy1-3%Up to 5%Used for its refreshing and calming properties

Classic Accords

+ Lavender + Bergamot = Fresh Citrus + Peppermint + Eucalyptus = Invigorating Blend

Tip: Use Mentha citrata oil to add a bright, citrusy-minty top note to fresh and herbal fragrances.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Linalool CAS 78-70-6

A primary component of Mentha citrata oil, used for its floral-citrusy aroma.

2
Linalyl Acetate CAS 115-95-7

Another key component, contributing to the sweet, floral undertones.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

No IFRA restrictions apply to Mentha citrata oil.

EU Allergen Declaration

May contain linalool, which is a listed EU allergen.

GHS Classification

H315 Skin irritation H319 Eye irritation

RIFM Assessment

RIFM has assessed Mentha citrata oil as safe for use in current practices.

Sustainability

Mentha citrata oil is sustainably sourced through controlled cultivation. The plant is hardy and requires minimal pesticides, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Steam distillation, the primary extraction method, is energy-efficient and produces minimal waste.

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References

  1. PubChem: Mentha citrata oil PubChem
  2. RIFM Safety Assessment RIFM

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

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Ingredient Data Sheet

CAS 68917-15-7
Data Sources & Attribution
Physical 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.

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