Spikenard oil (CAS 8022-22-8) — Earthy Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Spikenard oil
CAS 8022-22-8
What Is Spikenard oil?
Spikenard oil comes from the roots of a Himalayan plant, used since biblical times in sacred rituals and perfumery. You’ll encounter it in niche perfumes and aromatherapy blends. This rare oil matters for its deep, earthy-animalic character that adds profound depth to fragrances. It’s prized for creating meditative, grounding scents with ancient connections.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Spikenard oil Smell Like?
Spikenard oil unfolds like damp forest soil after rain – loamy, woody, and slightly fermented. The initial burst carries a medicinal sharpness that softens into a warm, musky-animalic heart reminiscent of aged leather and valerian root. As it dries, the scent develops a sweet-balsamic undertone akin to antique wooden chests lined with dried herbs. Unlike patchouli’s sharpness, spikenard remains rounded, with a faint licorice-like nuance that lingers for hours on skin.
Scent Profile
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Spikenard forms the sacred core alongside frankincense, creating a contemplative atmosphere reminiscent of ancient temples. Its earthy depth balances the resinous brightness.
Here spikenard’s animalic facets are amplified with musk and woods, resulting in a primal yet polished scent that evolves dramatically over time.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Spikenard oil (Nardostachys jatamansi) contains sesquiterpenes like aristolene, valeranal, and nardol. The characteristic odor comes from patchoulol-like compounds and unique spirojatamol derivatives. Steam distillation of dried roots yields about 1-2% oil. Unlike many EOs, it contains minimal monoterpenes, giving it exceptional tenacity. The Himalayan origin contributes to distinct chemotypes based on altitude.
Chemical Composition
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Viscous amber liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol, insoluble in water |
Key Constituent Properties
| Constituent | CAS | MW | BP °C | XLogP | Vapor P. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valeranal | 18200-72-1 | 218.33 | 285 °C | 4.2 | 0.001 mmHg |
| Patchoulol | 5986-55-0 | 222.36 | 285 °C | 4.5 | 0.0003 mmHg |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Used sparingly for depth |
| Incense | 3-7% | Up to 10% | Traditional religious use |
Classic Accords
Tip: Pre-dilute to 10% in alcohol to tame its intensity before blending.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More readily available with similar earthy notes but lacks spikenard’s animalic complexity.
Shares fermented-root character but greener and less balsamic.
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. Listed in IFRA Transparency List with no usage limits.
EU Allergen Declaration
None declared under EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex III.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM evaluation confirms safe use at current levels in fragrances.
Sustainability
Wild-harvested in Nepal and India, spikenard faces sustainability challenges due to overharvesting. Some producers now cultivate it at lower altitudes. Fair trade initiatives help support Himalayan communities. The oil’s low yield (100kg roots per 1kg oil) makes synthetic alternatives ecologically appealing but none capture its full complexity.
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References
- Chauhan et al. (2015). Nardostachys jatamansi DC. Phytochemistry and Pharmacology. Phytotherapy Research. PMID 25808826
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Mar 2026.
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