Protium, resin (CAS 92704-59-1) — Balsamic Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Balsamic · Woody

Protium, resin

CAS 92704-59-1

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

What Is Protium, resin?

Protium resin is a natural aromatic substance derived from the Protium tree, commonly found in tropical regions. People encounter it in traditional incense and niche perfumery. This resin matters because it offers a unique, long-lasting balsamic note that connects wearers to ancient fragrance traditions and natural environments.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Safe in traditional use
⚠ Check for purity in raw materials
CAS
92704-59-1
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Balsamic · Woody
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Protium, resin Smell Like?

Protium resin exudes a warm, earthy balsamic aroma with hints of vanilla and woody undertones. Initially, it presents a slightly sharp, resinous top note that quickly mellows into a rich, honeyed heart. Over time, it develops into a deep, ambery base with a faintly medicinal edge, reminiscent of ancient apothecaries. Its dry-down is exceptionally tenacious, leaving a comforting trail that blends seamlessly with skin chemistry.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Encens Mythique(Guerlain, 2012)

Protium resin adds a mystical, smoky depth to this ambery floral, creating an incense-like aura that evolves throughout wear.

Ambre Sultan(Serge Lutens, 1993)

Used here to amplify the resinous backbone, providing a dry, woody contrast to the lush amber sweetness.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Protium resin is a complex mixture of terpenoids and sesquiterpenes, with its aromatic profile dominated by balsamic compounds. The exact composition varies by tree species and harvest location. Traditional extraction methods involve tapping the tree bark to collect the exuded resin, which is then purified for perfumery use.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceViscous, opaque resin
SolubilitySoluble in alcohol, insoluble in water

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Very low (24+ hours)
Blending
Good with woods and ambers
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance1-3%Up to 5%Provides depth and longevity
Incense5-15%Up to 30%Traditional use as a binder and fixative

Classic Accords

+ Vanilla + Labdanum = Amber + Cedar + Patchouli = Woody

Tip: Warm gently to improve solubility in alcohol bases.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Elemi Resin CAS 9000-75-3

Offers a brighter, more citrusy resinous note when a lighter touch is needed.

2
Tolu Balsam CAS 9000-64-0

Provides a sweeter, more vanilla-like balsamic character for gourmand applications.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

No IFRA restrictions currently apply to Protium resin.

RIFM Assessment

Not currently assessed by RIFM, but traditional use suggests low risk.

Sustainability

Protium resin is sustainably harvested by indigenous communities using traditional methods that preserve tree health. Wild collection supports local economies but requires responsible sourcing practices to prevent overharvesting. The resin’s natural origin and biodegradability make it an environmentally preferable choice to synthetic alternatives.

Explore Protium, resin

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References

  1. Traditional Resins in Perfumery Ethnobotanical study
  2. Balsamic Materials in Fragrance Chemical profile

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

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Ingredient Data Sheet

CAS 92704-59-1
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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