clove oil terpenes

Clove oil terpenes consist primarily of volatile organic compounds isolated from the buds and leaves of Syzygium aromaticum, commonly known as clove. These terpenes represent a complex mixture enriched in sesquiterpenes such as caryophyllene, which contribute to their characteristic medium-strength spicy odor profile. The oil appears as a liquid with refractive indices typically between 1.495 to 1.505 at 20°C and a specific gravity near 0.9 at 25°C. Clove oil terpenes are used extensively in the fragrance industry and are often referenced by synonyms including eugenia caryophyllata terpenes, clove leaf terpenes, and jambosa caryophyllus terpenes. For comprehensive chemical data and nomenclature, the PubChem database offers an established reference. These terpenes derive commonly from steam distillation of clove plant parts, a process well-documented in industrial applications for essential oil extraction.

Clove oil terpenes occur naturally in several parts of the clove plant, especially within the flower buds and leaves of Syzygium aromaticum. They contribute significantly to the plant’s aromatic properties and have been harnessed mainly as fragrance agents for a wide array of scent applications. This includes use in perfumes, soaps, and cosmetic formulations where their warm and spicy notes are desirable. According to the IFRA Code of Practice (Global), clove oil terpenes are approved for fragrance usage up to 10% concentration in fragrance concentrates, reflecting a balance between effective aroma impact and safety considerations. Although the terpenes are notable for flavor-related aroma profiles, they are generally not recommended for direct flavoring purposes. Additional uses include substitution for other spice-derived oils and incorporation in aroma blends resembling cinnamon, allspice, or pepper, as well as in products aiming for spicy or warm character notes.

Clove oil terpenes exhibit a specific gravity ranging from 0.897 to 0.907 at 25°C, indicating a density slightly less than water and consistent with typical essential oil constituents. The refractive index falls between 1.495 and 1.505 at 20°C, which assists in verifying purity and quality. They display an optical rotation between -12° and -2°, reflecting the chiral nature of some terpene components. The flash point is measured at approximately 60°C (140°F), suggesting moderate volatility and flammability under certain conditions. These terpenes are soluble in alcohol and have limited water solubility, which is typical for hydrophobic organic compounds, thus influencing formulation choices in perfume and cosmetic products. Proper storage in cool, dry, and light-protected conditions can extend their shelf life beyond 24 months. Substantivity measurements show that their spicy odor sustains for multiple hours, making them durable components in fragrance compositions.

Export Tariff Code:	3301.29.5045
Wikipedia:	View
FAO:	BASIC PRINCIPLES OF STEAM DISTILLATION

Safety information

Hazards identification
Classification of the substance or mixture
GHS Classification in accordance with 29 CFR 1910 (OSHA HCS)
None found.
GHS Label elements, including precautionary statements
Pictogram
Hazard statement(s)
None found.
Precautionary statement(s)
None found.
Oral/Parenteral Toxicity:
Not determined
Dermal Toxicity:
Not determined
Inhalation Toxicity:
Not determined

Safety in use information

Category:
fragrance agents
RIFM Fragrance Material Safety Assessment: Search
IFRA Code of Practice Notification of the 49th Amendment to the IFRA Code of Practice
Recommendation for clove oil terpenes usage levels up to:
	10.0000 % in the fragrance concentrate.
Recommendation for clove oil terpenes flavor usage levels up to:
	not for flavor use.

Safety references

European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reference(s):

Conclusion on the peer review of the pesticide risk assessment of the active substance plant oils/clove oil View page or View pdf

EPI System: View

EPA Substance Registry Services (TSCA):68917-29-3

EPA ACToR:Toxicology Data

EPA Substance Registry Services (SRS):Registry

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases:Data

WISER:UN 1993

WGK Germany:3

syzygium aromaticum l. terpenes

Chemidplus:0068917293