Verbena absolute (CAS 8024-12-2) — Citrus Top to middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Verbena absolute
CAS 8024-12-2
What Is Verbena absolute?
Verbena absolute is a fragrant oil extracted from lemon verbena leaves, prized in perfumery for its bright, citrusy aroma. You’ll encounter it in high-end colognes, herbal teas, and natural skincare products. This ingredient matters because it captures the essence of Mediterranean gardens – a refreshing, slightly herbal lemon scent that’s more sophisticated than common citrus oils.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Verbena absolute Smell Like?
Verbena absolute bursts with an electrifying lemon-citrus top note, sharper and greener than lemon oil, with a crisp herbal undertone reminiscent of lemongrass. As it evolves, the heart reveals a delicate floralcy – like lemon blossoms kissed by morning dew. The dry-down is surprisingly tenacious for a citrus material, leaving a clean, slightly woody-musky trail that prevents it from disappearing completely. Imagine peeling a lemon next to a pot of steeping mint tea, with a whisper of lavender fields in the distance.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
This fragrance showcases verbena as the star, using its zesty brightness to create an uplifting summer cologne. The absolute provides depth and longevity beyond typical citrus notes.
Verbena absolute blends with rose and peony here, where its green facets complement the florals while preventing them from becoming too sweet or powdery.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Verbena absolute is obtained through solvent extraction of Aloysia citrodora leaves. While containing citral (geranial and neral) as key components, it’s distinguished from lemon oil by higher proportions of verbascoside and other phenylpropanoids. These compounds contribute to its unique green-herbal character. The absolute typically contains trace amounts of sesquiterpenes that round out the scent profile.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Greenish-yellow viscous liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol and oils |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Adds sparkling citrus-herbal lift |
| Home Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Freshness booster in diffusers |
Classic Accords
Tip: Pair with hesperidic materials to extend citrus notes without losing freshness.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Offers similar lemony character but lacks verbena’s herbal complexity. Use when cost is a factor.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions. Contains citral which may require labeling in some applications.
EU Allergen Declaration
Contains citral (CAS 5392-40-5) which requires declaration above 0.001% in leave-on products.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment confirms safe use at current industry levels.
Sustainability
Verbena is cultivated primarily in France and North Africa. Sustainable harvesting focuses on leaf collection without damaging plants. Some producers are developing CO2 extraction methods to reduce solvent use. Synthetic verbena reconstructions exist but lack the full complexity of natural absolute.
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