Turpentine oil (CAS 8006-64-2) — Woody Top Note Fragrance Ingredient
Turpentine oil
CAS 8006-64-2
What Is Turpentine oil?
Turpentine oil is a natural resinous substance distilled from pine trees, commonly encountered in household cleaners, paints, and traditional medicine. Its sharp, pine-like aroma makes it recognizable in industrial and artisanal contexts. This ingredient matters because it serves as a precursor for many fragrance chemicals and has historical significance in perfumery and therapeutics.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Turpentine oil Smell Like?
Turpentine oil has a sharp, penetrating pine-like aroma with a slightly medicinal undertone. The initial burst is fresh and camphoraceous, evolving into a woody, resinous heart. The dry-down reveals a dry, almost smoky character, reminiscent of a pine forest after rain. Its scent profile is robust and linear, with minimal evolution over time.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Turpentine oil contributes a sharp, forest-like top note, enhancing the fragrance’s masculine, outdoorsy character.
Used sparingly to add a crisp, resinous edge to the classic fougère accord.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Turpentine oil is primarily composed of pinene isomers (α-pinene and β-pinene), along with other terpenes like camphene and limonene. These monoterpenes are volatile and contribute to the oil’s distinctive aroma. Industrial distillation of pine resin yields turpentine oil, which can be further fractionated or chemically modified for various applications.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 150-180 °C |
|---|---|
| Flash Point | 35 °C |
| Density | 0.86-0.87 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Fragrances | 1-5% | Up to 10% | Adds sharp, resinous character |
| Household Products | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Provides fresh, clean scent |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use in trace amounts to avoid overpowering other notes.
Alternatives & Comparisons
A purified component of turpentine oil, offering a cleaner, more focused pine aroma.
A less volatile alternative with similar resinous characteristics.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not restricted by IFRA, but use with caution due to skin sensitization potential.
EU Allergen Declaration
Turpentine oil is not listed as an EU allergen.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has assessed turpentine oil as safe for use in fragrances at current levels.
Sustainability
Turpentine oil is sourced from sustainable pine forestry practices. Synthetic alternatives are available but lack the natural complexity. Environmental impact is moderate due to volatile organic compound emissions.
Explore Turpentine oil
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References
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 8006-64-2Odor & Flavor
| Turpentine oil is obtained by steam distillation of the oleo-gum-resin. It has a warm, balsamic, refreshing odor of turpentine. The oil must be absolutely free of water to avoid oxidation of a- and b-pinene (approximately 80% of the oil).📖 Fenaroli |
Regulatory Status
| IOFI Classification | Natural📖 Fenaroli |
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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