alpha-methyl cinnamyl alcohol

Alpha-methyl cinnamyl alcohol (PubChem CID 6393846) is an aromatic alcohol belonging to the class of unsaturated phenylpropenols with the molecular formula C₁₀H₁₂O. This colorless to pale liquid exhibits a characteristic sweet balsamic odor reminiscent of styrax and oriental notes. Also known by several synonyms such as 3-buten-2-ol, (E)-4-phenyl-, and methyl styryl carbinol, it is typically derived through synthetic organic processes. The compound finds its primary role in fragrance compositions where its distinctive scent profile enhances oriental, balsam, and floral accords.

Alpha-methyl cinnamyl alcohol occurs predominantly in synthetic form as it is not widely present in natural sources. It is applied extensively in the fragrance industry due to its appealing sweet balsamic and oriental aroma. Under IFRA (Global) standards, it is approved for limited use in perfuming agents with restrictions on maximum concentration to ensure consumer safety. Its olfactory characteristics make it suitable for blending in fragrances that evoke lily of the valley, spices, and warm balsam notes, fulfilling roles in both fine fragrances and personal care products.

The compound displays moderate volatility with a boiling point range between 288 to 289°C at standard atmospheric pressure and a low vapor pressure of 0.004 mmHg at 25°C, indicating relatively low evaporation rates under ambient conditions. Its estimated logP of 1.929 suggests balanced lipophilicity favoring solubility in organic solvents like alcohol, while it exhibits limited water solubility. The flash point is approximately 93°C, reflecting its flammability risk under elevated temperatures. These properties influence its formulation in fragrance mixtures by contributing to sustained aroma release and substantivity, typically lasting up to 48 hours when applied at full strength.

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HMDB (The Human Metabolome Database):	Search
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Safety information

Preferred SDS: View
European information :
Most important hazard(s):
Xi - Irritant
R 36/38 - Irritating to skin and eyes. S 02 - Keep out of the reach of children. S 24/25 - Avoid contact with skin and eyes. S 26 - In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice. S 36 - Wear suitable protective clothing.
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.
Human Experience:
2 % solution: no irritation or sensitization.
Oral/Parenteral Toxicity:
oral-rat LD50 2400 ul/kg Food and Cosmetics Toxicology. Vol. 13, Pg. 851, 1975.
Dermal Toxicity:
skin-rabbit LD50 > 5000 mg/kg Food and Cosmetics Toxicology. Vol. 13, Pg. 851, 1975.
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
maximum skin levels for fine fragrances:
	0.0100 % and are based on the assumption that the fragrance mixture is used at 20% in a consumer product (IFRA Use Level Survey).(IFRA, 2004)
Recommendation for alpha-methyl cinnamyl alcohol usage levels up to:
	8.0000 % in the fragrance concentrate.
use level in formulae for use in cosmetics:
	0.2000 %
Dermal Systemic Exposure in Cosmetic Products:
	0.0051 mg/kg/day (IFRA, 2004)
Recommendation for alpha-methyl cinnamyl alcohol flavor usage levels up to:
	not for flavor use.

Safety references

EPI System: View

AIDS Citations:Search

Cancer Citations:Search

Toxicology Citations:Search

EPA Substance Registry Services (TSCA):1504-55-8

EPA ACToR:Toxicology Data

EPA Substance Registry Services (SRS):Registry

Laboratory Chemical Safety Summary :6393846

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases:Data

WGK Germany:2

(E)-2-methyl-3-phenylprop-2-en-1-ol

Chemidplus:0001504558

RTECS:GE2340000 for cas# 1504-55-8