Juniper berry absolute (CAS 8002-68-4) — Woody Top-Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Juniper berry absolute
CAS 8002-68-4
What Is Juniper berry absolute?
Juniper berry absolute is a luxurious extract from the cones of Juniperus communis. Encountered in premium perfumes and gin flavorings, it delivers a crisp, woody-pine aroma with subtle fruity undertones. This ingredient matters because it bridges the gap between forest freshness and sophisticated warmth, making it a staple in masculine and unisex fragrances.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Juniper berry absolute Smell Like?
Juniper berry absolute bursts with an invigorating top note of crushed pine needles and citrus peel, evolving into a heart of blackcurrant jam and fresh sap. The dry-down reveals resinous depths – imagine walking through a sunlit conifer forest where the air carries whispers of crushed juniper berries underfoot. Its longevity is moderate, leaving a clean woody trail.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Showcases juniper’s gin-like freshness as the starring note, supported by citrus and spice to create a sophisticated aromatic cocktail effect.
Uses junberry absolute to add dry woody complexity to the marine accord, creating an intriguing contrast with the mineralic salt notes.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Juniper berry absolute contains over 50 compounds including α-pinene (20-50%), myrcene (5-25%), and limonene (2-12%). The extraction process typically involves hydrocarbon solvent extraction of dried berries followed by ethanol washing. Key odorants include terpinen-4-ol and sabinene hydrate which contribute to its distinctive fresh-woody character.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Viscous greenish liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol and fixed oils |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Adds aromatic freshness |
| Functional Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Used in masculine care products |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use in moderation to avoid dominating compositions with its intense pine character.
Alternatives & Comparisons
When a smokier, tar-like interpretation of juniper is desired in leather or tobacco accords.
For brighter, more linear coniferous effects without juniper’s fruity nuances.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under IFRA 51st Amendment.
EU Allergen Declaration
Contains limonene which requires allergen declaration above 0.001% in leave-on products.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment complete – no significant safety concerns at typical usage levels.
Sustainability
Wild harvesting impacts are mitigated through controlled cultivation in Europe. The absolute yield is low (0.2-0.5% of berry weight), making responsible sourcing critical. Some producers now use supercritical CO2 extraction which reduces solvent waste.
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References
- Adams RP (2008). Junipers of the World. Trafford Publishing.
- PDR for Herbal Medicines 4th Ed (2007). Thomson Healthcare.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 8002-68-4Odor & Flavor
| The oil should be obtained exclusively by steam distillation of the nonfermented berries; because of extensive gin production (obtained from fermented and subsequently distilled berries), the oil results as a by-product of gin distillation. The by-product oil is much less aromatic, lacking the oxygenated fractions. It is almost entirely insoluble in dilute alcohol, even after subsequent rectification and is not suitable in the formulation of compounded oils. The oil has a characteristic odor and an aromatic bitter taste.📖 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.
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