Patchouli Oil (CAS 8014-09-03) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Patchouli Oil
CAS 8014-09-03
What Is Patchouli Oil?
Patchouli oil is an essential oil derived from the leaves of the Pogostemon cablin plant, native to tropical regions. It’s commonly found in perfumes, incense, and aromatherapy products. Patchouli oil matters because it adds depth and longevity to fragrances, often serving as a base note that evolves beautifully over time.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFE
What Does Patchouli Oil Smell Like?
Patchouli oil offers a rich, earthy aroma with woody, sweet, and slightly musky undertones. Initially intense and herbaceous, it mellows into a warm, velvety base note that lingers for hours. The scent evokes damp forest floors, aged leather, and exotic spices, making it a staple in oriental and woody fragrances.
Scent Profile
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Patchouli adds depth and warmth to this modern chypre, balancing the citrus and floral notes with its earthy richness.
A bold, modern take on patchouli, highlighting its woody, spicy facets with amber and vanilla.
Patchouli provides a grounding base note, complementing the citrus and herbal top notes.
Patchouli enhances the oriental accord, adding a smoky, earthy dimension to the vanilla and bergamot.
Patchouli contributes to the opulent, spicy-oriental character, blending with incense and amber.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Patchouli oil is a complex mixture of sesquiterpenes, with patchouli alcohol (patchoulol) being the primary constituent. It also contains significant amounts of α-bulnesene, α-guaiene, and β-caryophyllene. The oil is typically obtained through steam distillation of dried leaves. Its unique aroma profile is due to the synergistic effect of these compounds.
Chemical Composition
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 285 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.96 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | 1.505 – 1.515 |
| Flash Point | 100 °C |
Key Constituent Properties
| Constituent | CAS | MW | BP °C | XLogP | Vapor P. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Patchoulol | 5986-55-0 | 222.37 | 285 | 4.5 | 0.001 mmHg |
| α-Bulnesene | 3691-11-0 | 204.35 | 276 | 5.2 | 0.002 mmHg |
| α-Guaiene | 3691-12-1 | 204.35 | 275 | 5.1 | 0.002 mmHg |
| β-Caryophyllene | 87-44-5 | 204.35 | 262 | 4.8 | 0.003 mmHg |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-5% | Up to 10% | Adds depth and longevity |
| Soap & Detergents | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used sparingly for earthy notes |
| Cosmetics | 0.5-2% | Up to 3% | Provides warm, woody base |
| Aromatherapy | 2-5% | Up to 10% | Valued for grounding properties |
Classic Accords
+ Bergamot + Oakmoss = Chypre
+ Rose + Amber = Floral-Oriental
Tip: Patchouli oil blends well with woody, spicy, and floral notes, enhancing their depth and longevity.
Alternatives & Comparisons
A synthetic alternative with a cleaner, less earthy profile, ideal for modern fragrances.
Offers a similar woody base note but with a creamier, sweeter character.
Provides an earthy, smoky alternative with less sweetness.
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 restrictions under IFRA standards. Safe for use in all categories.
EU Allergen Declaration
Patchouli oil is not listed as an EU allergen.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has assessed patchouli oil as safe for use in current practices.
Sustainability
Patchouli oil is sustainably sourced from cultivated plants in tropical regions. The distillation process is energy-intensive but yields a high-value product. Synthetic alternatives like Clearwood offer more sustainable options with similar olfactory profiles.
Explore Patchouli Oil
Browse essential oils and aroma compounds.
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Industry & Science Data
References
- Baldovini, N. et al. (2011). Phytochemistry of Patchouli Oil. Phytochemistry. PMID XXXXX
- PubChem Patchouli Alcohol CID XXXXX
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Mar 2026.
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