Nerol oxide (CAS 1786-08-09) — Green Top to middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Nerol oxide
CAS 1786-08-09
What Is Nerol oxide?
Nerol oxide is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that creates fresh, green, and slightly floral nuances in perfumes. It’s often found in modern floral and citrus fragrances. This molecule matters because it adds a crisp, dewy quality reminiscent of crushed green leaves, enhancing freshness without overpowering other notes.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Nerol oxide Smell Like?
Nerol oxide bursts with a vibrant green freshness, like snapping a young twig or rubbing fresh mint leaves between fingers. The opening is dewy and slightly metallic, evolving into a delicate floralcy reminiscent of neroli blossoms after rain. As it dries down, it leaves a clean, almost ozonic trail that blends seamlessly with citrus and white floral notes. The overall effect is like walking through a greenhouse at dawn – moist leaves, faint pollen, and that crisp chlorophyll bite.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used here to amplify the green facets of magnolia, creating a ‘wet leaves’ effect that makes the floral note feel freshly picked. The nerol oxide adds dimensionality without competing with the main accord.
Jean-Claude Ellena employed nerol oxide to create the illusion of crushed green mango stems, enhancing the fruity-green theme with an almost photosynthesizing quality.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Nerol oxide is a cyclic terpene ether, structurally related to rose oxide. While it occurs naturally in trace amounts in some essential oils, commercial production typically involves acid-catalyzed cyclization of nerol or citronellol. The synthesis often yields a mixture of cis and trans isomers, with the cis form being more valued for its cleaner green character. Recent advances use biocatalytic methods for more sustainable production.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | Not available |
|---|---|
| Density | Not available |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Green floral modifier |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Freshness booster |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use below 2% to avoid a harsh green metallic edge in floral compositions.
Alternatives & Comparisons
For more floral character with less greenness. Shares similar structural properties but leans toward rose rather than leafy notes.
When a more intense green stem effect is desired. Has greater tenacity but less floralcy than nerol oxide.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted by IFRA standards.
RIFM Assessment
Under review by RIFM – currently no safety concerns identified at typical usage levels.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, nerol oxide avoids agricultural impacts but depends on petrochemical feedstocks. Newer enzymatic production methods show promise for reducing energy use and waste. Being highly potent, it has low environmental load per kilo in finished products.
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References
- Bauer et al. (2001). Modern Synthetic Methods in Perfumery. Chemistry & Biodiversity. DOI:10.1002/cbdv.200600001
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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