Turmeric (CAS 8024-37-1) — Fragrance Ingredient Profile
Turmeric
CAS 8024-37-1
What Is Turmeric?
Turmeric is a golden-yellow spice derived from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, widely used in cooking and traditional medicine. Its warm, earthy aroma makes it a unique ingredient in perfumery, evoking exotic spice markets and ancient rituals. Turmeric oil adds depth and warmth to fragrances, often used to create oriental and spicy accords. Its inclusion in perfumes brings a sense of vibrancy and cultural richness.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Turmeric Smell Like?
Turmeric offers a warm, earthy, and slightly peppery aroma with woody undertones. Its scent evolves from a sharp, spicy top note to a deep, resinous heart, finally settling into a dry, powdery base. The fragrance is reminiscent of sun-baked soil, dried hay, and distant woodsmoke, with a subtle citrusy brightness that keeps it from being too heavy.
Scent Profile
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Turmeric adds a warm, spicy depth to this modern oriental fragrance, complementing the cinnamon and saffron notes.
Turmeric’s earthy warmth enhances the vanilla and almond accords, creating a sensual, gourmand effect.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Turmeric’s primary aromatic compounds include turmerone, ar-turmerone, and zingiberene. These sesquiterpenoids contribute to its warm, spicy character. The essential oil is obtained through steam distillation of the dried rhizomes. The chemistry of turmeric oil is complex, with variations depending on the geographic origin and cultivation methods.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 200-220 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.92 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Adds warmth and spice |
| Home Fragrance | 2-5% | Up to 10% | Creates cozy, inviting atmospheres |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use turmeric oil to add warmth and depth to oriental and woody fragrances.
Alternatives & Comparisons
A more concentrated form of turmeric’s aroma, used when a stronger spice note is desired.
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.
EU Allergen Declaration
Not listed as an EU allergen.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has assessed turmeric oil as safe for use in fragrances at current levels.
Sustainability
Turmeric is sustainably cultivated in tropical regions, primarily India. The essential oil is steam-distilled from the rhizomes, a byproduct of the spice industry. Synthetic alternatives are not commonly used due to the complexity of the natural oil’s aroma profile.
Explore Turmeric
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References
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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