licorice oil

Licorice oil is a natural flavor and fragrance compound extracted primarily from the roots of the Glycyrrhiza plant genus. It appears as an essential oil component classified under oils, licorice and is known for its unmistakable licorice sensory profile, exhibiting both characteristic odor and flavor reminiscent of the licorice herb. The compound is also identified by related names such as secondary acid liquor, tertiary acid liquor, and tertiary licorice extract. Structurally, licorice oil comprises a complex mixture of aromatic molecules contributing to its sensory qualities. For detailed chemical information, the PubChem database provides comprehensive data under this oil’s identifiers. Licorice oil is generally obtained via steam distillation or solvent extraction of licorice root material, methods of extraction commonly described by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Licorice oil naturally occurs in the roots of Glycyrrhiza species, where it contributes to the characteristic aromatic and flavor profile of licorice. It is predominantly applied as a flavor and fragrance agent in formulations requiring sweet, herbaceous licorice notes. The material is valued for its ability to impart distinctive aroma and taste in various consumer products including confectionery, beverages, perfumes, and cosmetic fragrances. Its usage is guided by standards such as the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA) in the United States, which provides regulatory frameworks ensuring safety and quality in flavor and fragrance applications. These standards help define acceptable concentration levels and quality criteria for licorice oil in consumer goods.

Licorice oil demonstrates limited solubility in water, with an estimated value of approximately 73.14 milligrams per liter at 25 °C, indicating moderate hydrophobic character. This property influences its formulation behavior, favoring incorporation into oil-based or nonpolar matrices for optimal stability and performance. The oil possesses a characteristic licorice odor and flavor at pure concentrations, important for sensory impact in end products. Such physico-chemical attributes dictate its compatibility and dispersion in flavors, fragrances, and aromatic blends, enabling tailored use depending on the intended sensory profile and product medium.

Canada Domestic Sub. List:	97676-23-8
Pubchem (sid):	135272755

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:

flavor and fragrance agents

RIFM Fragrance Material Safety Assessment: Search

IFRA Code of Practice Notification of the 49th Amendment to the IFRA Code of Practice

Safety references

EPI System: View

AIDS Citations:Search

Cancer Citations:Search

Toxicology Citations:Search

EPA Substance Registry Services (TSCA):97676-23-8

EPA ACToR:Toxicology Data

EPA Substance Registry Services (SRS):Registry

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases:Data

Chemidplus:0097676238