Witch hazel distillate (CAS 84696-19-5) — Green Middle to base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Green · Woody

Witch hazel distillate

CAS 84696-19-5

Origin
natural
Note
Middle to base
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Witch hazel distillate?

Witch hazel distillate is a natural botanical extract commonly found in skincare products like toners and astringents. It’s derived from the leaves and bark of the Hamamelis virginiana shrub native to North America. This ingredient matters because it combines gentle astringency with soothing properties, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Its natural tannins help tighten pores while its anti-inflammatory effects calm irritation.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Non-toxic and non-irritating
✓ Used in cosmetics for centuries
CAS
84696-19-5
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Green · Woody
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Witch hazel distillate Smell Like?

Witch hazel distillate carries a crisp, medicinal-herbal aroma with woody undertones. The initial scent is sharply green and slightly camphoraceous, reminiscent of fresh bark and autumn leaves. As it settles, softer floral nuances emerge alongside a clean, almost tea-like character. The dry-down reveals subtle tannic notes that give it an earthy, slightly astringent finish. Its odor profile is refreshingly clean without being overpowering, making it a versatile base for natural fragrances.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Hamamelis(Mona di Orio, 2012)

Features witch hazel as the star note, capturing its crisp medicinal quality blended with citrus and spices for a modern aromatic fougère.

Witch Hazel & Aloe(Thayers, 1847)

Showcases the natural astringent properties of witch hazel in a simple, refreshing toner with minimal fragrance interference.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Witch hazel distillate contains a complex mixture of tannins (hamamelitannin), flavonoids, and volatile oils. The steam distillation process preserves these water-soluble compounds while removing harsh alcohols found in solvent extracts. Key constituents include gallic acid, catechins, and proanthocyanidins that contribute to its astringent properties. Unlike alcohol-based extracts, the distillate maintains the plant’s full phytochemical profile without denaturing delicate components.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceClear pale yellow liquid
SolubilityMiscible with water and alcohol

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Middle to base
Volatility
Moderate (2-4 hours)
Blending
Good with woody and herbal notes
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Skincare Toners50-90%Up to 100%Primary active ingredient
Fragrance Bases5-15%Up to 20%Herbal modifier

Classic Accords

Tip: Use as a natural alternative to alcohol bases for water-based fragrances needing mild astringency.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Rose Water CAS 84604-12-6

Softer floral alternative when less astringency is desired.

2
Hydrosol Blend CAS N/A

Custom botanical distillate mixtures for tailored herbal profiles.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

No restrictions – approved for all applications.

RIFM Assessment

Considered safe based on historical use and current toxicological data.

Sustainability

Witch hazel is sustainably wild-harvested or cultivated without pesticides in North America. The distillation process uses minimal energy compared to solvent extraction. Being water-based, it has lower environmental impact than alcohol extracts. Many producers practice bark-only harvesting to allow plant regeneration.

Explore Witch hazel distillate

Browse essential oils and aroma compounds.

Browse on iHerb →

Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

References

  1. Dauer A. et al. (2003). Tannins from Hamamelis virginiana. Planta Medica. PMID 12802725
  2. American Botanical Council (2020). Witch Hazel Monograph. HerbalGram 126

Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

Report a data error

Ingredient Data Sheet

CAS 84696-19-5
Data Sources & Attribution
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.

Similar Posts