Vetiver Oil (CAS 8016-96-4) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Vetiver Oil
CAS 8016-96-4
What Is Vetiver Oil?
Vetiver oil is a rich, earthy essential oil derived from the roots of the vetiver grass, commonly found in perfumes, candles, and aromatherapy products. Its deep, woody aroma makes it a favorite in both luxury and everyday fragrances. Vetiver oil is prized for its grounding and calming properties, often used in scents designed to evoke tranquility and sophistication. Its complex scent profile adds depth and longevity to fragrances, making it a staple in perfumery.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFE
What Does Vetiver Oil Smell Like?
Vetiver oil opens with a smoky, earthy aroma reminiscent of damp forest floors and freshly turned soil. As it evolves, it reveals a heart of dry, woody notes with a hint of leather and tobacco, creating a rugged yet refined character. The dry-down is warm and slightly sweet, with a lingering balsamic quality that adds depth and sophistication. Its scent is often compared to patchouli but with a cleaner, more masculine edge, making it a versatile base note in many fragrances.
Scent Profile
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
A classic masculine fragrance where vetiver is the star, blended with citrus and spices for a fresh yet earthy profile.
A modern take on vetiver, featuring a dark, inky interpretation with cypress and musk for a mysterious aura.
A pure and intense vetiver scent, highlighting the raw, natural beauty of the ingredient with minimal interference.
Vetiver is paired with citrus and flint to create a mineral, earthy fragrance with a modern twist.
A smoky, woody vetiver fragrance with juniper and cypress, evoking a walk through an autumnal forest.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Vetiver oil is a complex mixture of sesquiterpenes, including vetiverol, vetivone, and khusimol, which contribute to its distinctive earthy and woody aroma. The oil is extracted through steam distillation of the roots of Vetiveria zizanioides, a tropical grass native to India. The composition varies depending on the region of cultivation, with Haitian vetiver known for its green, fresh notes and Indian vetiver prized for its smoky, deep character. The oil’s complexity makes it challenging to synthesize, and most perfumery uses rely on natural extraction.
Chemical Composition
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 250-300 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.980-1.020 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | 1.520-1.530 |
| Flash Point | 100 °C |
Key Constituent Properties
| Constituent | CAS | MW | BP °C | XLogP | Vapor P. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vetiverol | 515-03-7 | 222.37 | 250-300 | 4.5 | 0.001 mmHg |
| Vetivone | 15764-04-2 | 218.33 | 250-300 | 4.2 | 0.001 mmHg |
| Khusimol | 16223-63-5 | 222.37 | 250-300 | 4.5 | 0.001 mmHg |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-5% | Up to 10% | Adds depth and longevity |
| Aromatherapy | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Used for grounding effects |
| Home Fragrance | 0.1-1% | Up to 3% | Adds earthy warmth |
| Cosmetics | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used in small amounts for scent |
Classic Accords
+ Patchouli + Sandalwood = Earthy Oriental
+ Citrus + Amber = Fresh Woody
Tip: Use vetiver oil sparingly to avoid overpowering other notes; it works well with citrus and spices to balance its earthiness.
Alternatives & Comparisons
A similar earthy note but with a sweeter, more pungent character, often used when a richer, more pronounced earthiness is desired.
Offers a dry, woody alternative with less earthiness, suitable for cleaner, more straightforward woody accords.
Provides a creamy, smooth woody note, ideal for softer, more luxurious fragrances.
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
Vetiver oil is not restricted by IFRA and is generally considered safe for use in perfumery.
EU Allergen Declaration
Vetiver oil is not listed as an EU allergen, but some individuals may experience sensitivity.
GHS Classification
H319 Eye irritation
RIFM Assessment
RIFM has assessed vetiver oil as safe for use in current practices, with no significant concerns identified.
Sustainability
Vetiver oil is sustainably sourced, primarily from Haiti and India, where it is grown to prevent soil erosion. The roots are harvested without harming the plant, making it a renewable resource. Synthetic alternatives exist but lack the depth and complexity of natural vetiver oil.
Explore Vetiver Oil
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Industry & Science Data
References
- PubChem. Vetiver Oil. National Library of Medicine. PubChem
- RIFM. (2020). Safety Assessment of Vetiver Oil. RIFM Monograph. RIFM
- ISO 4716:2002. Oil of vetiver. International Organization for Standardization. ISO 4716:2002
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Mar 2026.
Ingredient Data Sheet
CAS 8016-96-4Odor & Flavor
| Vetiver oil is obtained by steam distillation of washed and sun-dried rootlets and rhizomes from Vetiveria zizanioides in approximately 1.0 to 1.5% yields. The oil has a characteristic, sweet, earthy, woody odor that varies somewhat, depending on the source.📖 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.
