FlavScents AInsights Entry for Labdanum Oleoresin
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Labdanum Oleoresin
- CAS Number: N/A
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: Not applicable
- Material Type: Natural complex material derived from the Cistus species, primarily Cistus ladanifer and Cistus creticus.
- Description: Labdanum oleoresin is a sticky brown resin obtained from the shrubs of the Cistus species. It is known for its rich, complex aroma and is widely used in perfumery.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Labdanum oleoresin is characterized by its warm, sweet, and balsamic aroma with nuances of amber and leather. It is often described as having a deep, resinous scent with a hint of smokiness. The intensity of its odor is moderate to strong, making it a prominent base note in fragrance compositions. It serves as an impact note and a modifier, providing depth and warmth to blends.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Labdanum oleoresin is naturally sourced from the Cistus ladanifer and Cistus creticus shrubs, which are native to the Mediterranean region. The resin is collected by boiling the leaves and twigs of the plant, followed by extraction. It is considered a natural fragrance material and is often used in products labeled as "natural."
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Labdanum oleoresin is less commonly used in flavor applications compared to its widespread use in perfumery. When used, it imparts a warm, sweet, and slightly spicy note to flavor systems. It can be found in certain confectionery and beverage applications, typically at low concentrations. Typical use levels are not well-documented but are generally in the range of 1-10 ppm in finished products.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Labdanum oleoresin is a staple in the fragrance industry, particularly in oriental and amber fragrance families. It acts as a base note, providing a rich, warm, and resinous character. It is used in concentrations ranging from trace amounts to several percent, depending on the desired intensity and character of the fragrance. Its volatility is low, contributing to its role as a long-lasting base note.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
Labdanum oleoresin contains a variety of terpenes and sesquiterpenes, with major constituents including labdane diterpenes, such as labdanolic acid and ambroxide. The composition can vary significantly based on the plant's origin, harvest time, and processing methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Labdanum oleoresin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in fragrances but lacks specific FEMA GRAS status for flavor use.
- European Union: Permitted for use in cosmetics and fragrances under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Usage regulations vary; generally accepted in fragrances.
- Latin America: Usage is generally aligned with international standards, but specific regulations may vary by country.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Limited data available; typically not used in flavors at significant levels.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe in fragrances; IFRA standards apply to limit potential sensitization.
- Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces inhalation risk; used safely in perfumes and ambient fragrances.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Labdanum oleoresin is valued for its ability to impart warmth and depth to fragrance compositions. It blends well with other resins, woods, and spices, enhancing the overall complexity of the scent. Formulators should be cautious of its strong character, which can dominate blends if overused. It is often underutilized in flavor applications due to its intense aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on labdanum oleoresin is well-established in the context of fragrance use, with extensive documentation on its sensory properties and regulatory status. However, there are gaps in flavor application data and specific toxicological studies, which are areas for further research.
Citation hooks: FlavScents
QA Check
- All required sections 1-9 are present
- "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
- Flavor section includes ppm ranges
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- Includes section 5a for complex natural material
About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.
Generated 2026-01-16 19:02:38 GMT (p2)