Cumin seed oil (CAS 8014-13-9) — Spicy Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Cumin seed oil
CAS 8014-13-9
What Is Cumin seed oil?
Cumin seed oil is a essential oil derived from the seeds of Cuminum cyminum, commonly used in cooking and perfumery. It has a warm, spicy aroma that evokes Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine. In perfumery, it adds depth and exoticism to oriental and spicy fragrances.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Cumin seed oil Smell Like?
Cumin seed oil has a robust, warm, and spicy aroma with earthy undertones. Its scent is reminiscent of exotic markets, with a slightly bitter edge that evolves into a sweet, woody dry-down. The top note is sharp and peppery, the heart reveals a rich, nutty character, and the base lingers with a comforting, balsamic warmth.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Cumin seed oil adds a bold, spicy kick to this modern masculine fragrance, blending with saffron and tobacco for an explosive effect.
Used to enhance the exotic, oriental accord, cumin seed oil contributes depth and warmth to this iconic fragrance.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Cumin seed oil is primarily composed of cuminaldehyde, which gives it its characteristic spicy aroma. Other significant components include γ-terpinene, β-pinene, and p-cymene. The oil is extracted via steam distillation of the seeds, yielding a complex mixture of volatile compounds that contribute to its rich scent profile.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | N/A |
|---|---|
| Density | N/A |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Adds spicy depth |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used sparingly for warmth |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use sparingly to avoid overpowering other notes; blends well with woody and amber accords.
Alternatives & Comparisons
A more intense variant with a sharper, more medicinal aroma, suitable for niche fragrances.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under IFRA standards.
EU Allergen Declaration
None
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment confirms safe use at current levels in perfumery.
Sustainability
Cumin is widely cultivated, primarily in India and the Middle East. Sustainable farming practices are encouraged to ensure long-term availability. Synthetic alternatives are less common due to the complexity of the natural oil’s profile.
Explore Cumin seed oil
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References
- PubChem Compound Summary for Cumin Seed Oil PubChem
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 8014-13-9Odor & Flavor
| The oil is obtained by steam distillation of the finely comminuted seeds in average yields of about 3%. Its odor is extremely powerful, diffusive, green-spicy, slightly fatty, but at the same time not sharp or pungent, almost soft and mellow. The softness is one of the characteristics of cumin oil and is difficult to reproduce artificially with cumin aldehyde.📖 Fenaroli |
Regulatory Status
| IFRA Listed | Yes — see IFRA Standards for category limits⚖️ IFRA 51 |
| 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.
