Myrrh Oil (CAS 8016-37-3) — Balsamic Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Myrrh Oil
CAS 8016-37-3
What Is Myrrh Oil?
Myrrh oil is a rich, resinous essential oil derived from the Commiphora myrrha tree, native to Africa and the Middle East. It’s encountered in incense, perfumes, and traditional medicines. This ancient ingredient carries cultural significance dating back to biblical times, prized for its deep, complex aroma that evolves beautifully on skin.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESS
What Does Myrrh Oil Smell Like?
Myrrh oil unfolds with an initial medicinal bitterness, like aged leather and antique wood polish, before revealing its true heart – a warm, balsamic sweetness reminiscent of dried figs stewed in honey. The dry-down is profoundly resinous, with smoky undertones that linger like incense in a stone cathedral. Unlike its cousin frankincense, myrrh carries a distinctive earthy depth that adds gravitas to fragrance compositions.
Scent Profile
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Myrrh provides the narcotic depth in this oriental legend, blending with spices and florals to create its addictive, mysterious character.
Here myrrh is the star, showcased in a modern chypre structure where its resinous facets dance with bergamot and patchouli.
Myrrh contributes to the dry, ambery warmth of this desert-inspired scent, evoking ancient trade routes carrying precious resins.
The leathery facets of myrrh complement the cumin and citrus in this timeless unisex composition.
Myrrh’s animalic undertones amplify the sensual honeyed amber in this daring evening fragrance.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Myrrh oil is a complex mixture of sesquiterpenes, esters, and furanoid compounds. Key constituents include furanoeudesma-1,3-diene and curzerene, which contribute to its distinctive balsamic character. The oil is obtained through steam distillation of the resin, with quality varying based on the tree’s growing conditions. Unlike many essential oils, myrrh contains significant amounts of nitrogen-containing compounds that contribute to its medicinal facets.
Chemical Composition
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Pale yellow to amber viscous liquid |
|---|---|
| Specific Gravity | 0.985-1.015 |
| Refractive Index | 1.515-1.530 |
| Optical Rotation | -60° to -80° |
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol, insoluble in water |
Key Constituent Properties
| Constituent | CAS | MW | BP °C | XLogP | Vapor P. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Furanoeudesma-1,3-diene | 68991-15-1 | 218.33 | 280-285 °C | 5.2 | 0.001 mmHg |
| Curzerene | 21747-46-6 | 216.32 | 275-280 °C | 4.8 | 0.002 mmHg |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Provides depth in oriental compositions |
| Incense | 5-10% | Up to 20% | Traditional use in spiritual applications |
| Skincare | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Antimicrobial properties |
Classic Accords
+ Vanilla + Tonka = Gourmand Oriental
+ Patchouli + Sandalwood = Mystic Wood
Tip: Age myrrh oil for several months before use to allow harsh top notes to mellow.
Alternatives & Comparisons
A sweeter, less medicinal resin with similar fixative properties, ideal when a softer balsamic effect is desired.
Offers comparable resinous qualities but with brighter citrus-lemon top notes and less earthy depth.
Provides woody-balsamic facets without myrrh’s distinctive medicinal character, useful in modern woody compositions.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. IFRA, REACH, EU Cosmetics Regulation standards update periodically. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating. Not legal or regulatory advice.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions. Approved for use in all fragrance categories under standard guidelines.
EU Allergen Declaration
None of the major constituents are listed EU allergens.
GHS Classification
H317 May cause allergic skin reaction
RIFM Assessment
RIFM evaluation confirms safe use at current industry levels, with no evidence of phototoxicity or significant systemic toxicity.
Sustainability
Wild harvesting of myrrh resin presents ecological challenges, with some populations of Commiphora trees declining due to overharvesting. Sustainable sourcing programs now certify ethically harvested myrrh from managed plantations. Steam distillation requires significant energy input, making CO2 extraction an emerging alternative with higher yield and lower environmental impact.
Explore Myrrh Oil
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Industry & Science Data
References
- Tucker, A.O. (1986). Frankincense and Myrrh. Economic Botany, 40(4), 425-433. DOI:10.1007/BF02859654
- Shen, T. et al. (2012). Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Activities of Myrrh. Natural Product Communications, 7(6). PMID 22816294
- PubChem Compound Summary for Furanoeudesma-1,3-diene CID 3084313
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Mar 2026.
Ingredient Data Sheet
CAS 8016-37-3Odor & Flavor
| The oil, obtained by steam distillation of the gum, in approximately 3 to 8% yields. It has a pungent, balsamic, warm odor and corresponding flavor. The oil tends to darken and thicken on exposure to air and light.📖 Fenaroli |
Regulatory Status
| IOFI Classification | Natural📖 Fenaroli |
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.
