Neem seed oil, fixed (CAS 8002-65-1) — Green Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Neem seed oil, fixed
CAS 8002-65-1
What Is Neem seed oil, fixed?
Neem seed oil is a pressed vegetable oil from the seeds of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), native to India. It’s used in traditional medicine, cosmetics, and as a natural pesticide. The oil has a strong, pungent aroma often described as garlic-like or sulfurous. Neem oil matters because it contains bioactive compounds with antimicrobial and insect-repellent properties, making it valuable in organic farming and natural personal care products.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Neem seed oil, fixed Smell Like?
Neem seed oil announces itself with a bold, aggressive aroma – a complex interplay of bitter almonds, aged garlic, and pungent sulfurous notes. The opening is intensely green and vegetal, like crushed leaves mixed with raw onion. As it settles, deeper earthy tones emerge, reminiscent of damp soil and tree bark. The dry-down retains a persistent medicinal character with hints of camphor and turpentine. This challenging profile makes it more functional than pleasurable in perfumery, though it can add intriguing depth to avant-garde compositions when used sparingly.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
This Ayurvedic-inspired fragrance uses neem oil’s medicinal qualities to create an earthy, therapeutic base. Combined with vetiver and tulsi, it forms a grounding herbal accord that smells like an ancient healing garden.
Part of their Ayurvedic line, this limited edition uses neem oil’s distinctive aroma to evoke traditional Indian medicine. Balanced with citrus top notes to soften its intensity.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Neem oil is a complex mixture of triterpenoids, with azadirachtin being the most biologically active component. The oil contains over 100 identified compounds including nimbin, nimbidin, and salannin. These compounds are responsible for its insecticidal and antimicrobial properties. The oil is obtained through cold pressing of neem seeds, preserving its bioactive components. Unlike essential oils, neem oil is a fixed (non-volatile) oil composed mainly of fatty acids like oleic acid (50%) and palmitic acid (15%), along with its characteristic bitter principles.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Yellow-brown viscous liquid |
|---|---|
| Odor | Strong, garlic-like |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Functional Fragrances | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | For insect-repellent properties |
| Ayurvedic Products | 1-3% | Up to 10% | Traditional formulations |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use in trace amounts with strong masking agents like citrus or spice oils to tame its aggressive character.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Another Indian medicinal oil with similar insecticidal properties but milder, nuttier aroma. Better suited when neem’s intensity is problematic.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions. Considered a functional ingredient rather than a traditional fragrance material.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
Not formally evaluated by RIFM as it’s primarily used for functional rather than fragrance purposes.
Sustainability
Neem oil is sustainably harvested from neem trees that grow abundantly in tropical regions. The trees require minimal water and improve soil quality. Production involves simple cold pressing of seeds, making it energy-efficient. As a natural pesticide alternative, it reduces synthetic chemical use in agriculture. However, overharvesting wild trees could become an issue with increasing demand.
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References
- National Research Council (1992). Neem: A Tree for Solving Global Problems. National Academies Press. ISBN 0-309-04686-6
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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