FlavScents AInsights Entry: Magnolia Grandiflora Leaf Extract (CAS: 85085-47-8)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Magnolia grandiflora leaf extract is a natural complex material derived from the leaves of the Magnolia grandiflora tree. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for this extract is 85085-47-8. As a natural extract, it does not have a specific IUPAC name, FEMA number, or molecular formula. The composition of this extract can vary significantly depending on factors such as the geographical origin of the plant, the time of harvest, and the extraction method used.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
The sensory profile of Magnolia grandiflora leaf extract is characterized by a fresh, green, and slightly floral aroma. It is often described as having a leafy, earthy scent with subtle citrus undertones. The intensity of the odor is moderate, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in fragrance compositions. The extract does not have a well-documented taste threshold, but its odor threshold is considered to be relatively low, allowing it to impart a noticeable impact even at low concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Magnolia grandiflora is native to the southeastern United States, where it is commonly found in gardens and landscapes. The leaves of this tree are harvested and processed to produce the extract. The formation of the extract involves solvent extraction or steam distillation, which captures the volatile compounds responsible for its characteristic aroma. This extract is often used in products labeled as "natural fragrance" due to its botanical origin.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Magnolia grandiflora leaf extract is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its primary role as a fragrance material. However, when used in flavors, it can contribute a fresh, green note to herbal or citrus flavor profiles. Typical use levels in food and beverages are not well-documented, but industry estimates suggest low ppm levels, typically ranging from 1 to 10 ppm, depending on the desired intensity. The extract is generally stable under typical flavor formulation conditions but may degrade under high heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, Magnolia grandiflora leaf extract is valued for its fresh, green, and slightly floral aroma. It is used in a variety of fragrance families, including floral, green, and chypre compositions. The extract serves as a modifier or background note, enhancing the naturalness and complexity of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect. It contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
The key constituents of Magnolia grandiflora leaf extract include linalool, alpha-terpineol, and various sesquiterpenes. The exact composition can vary based on factors such as the plant's origin and the extraction method. These constituents are responsible for the extract's characteristic aroma and contribute to its sensory profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, Magnolia grandiflora leaf extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in fragrances but is not commonly used in flavors. In the European Union, it is subject to the regulations outlined in Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavorings and is permitted for use in fragrances. The regulatory status in the United Kingdom aligns with the EU post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, the extract is used primarily in fragrances, with specific regulations varying by country. In Latin America, the extract is also primarily used in fragrances, with regulatory frameworks similar to those in the US and EU.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, Magnolia grandiflora leaf extract is not commonly used in food, and specific ADI or MSDI values are not available. For dermal exposure, the extract is generally considered safe for use in fragrances, with no significant reports of irritation or sensitization. However, formulators should adhere to IFRA guidelines to ensure safety. Inhalation exposure is primarily relevant in occupational settings, where standard safety precautions should be followed to minimize risk.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Magnolia grandiflora leaf extract is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, green note to fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other floral and green notes, enhancing the overall complexity and naturalness of the fragrance. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as its moderate intensity can easily dominate a composition. It is often underused in niche fragrance applications where its unique profile can add significant value.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on Magnolia grandiflora leaf extract is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and use in fragrances. However, there are gaps in documented use levels and regulatory status for flavor applications. Industry practices are typically based on empirical knowledge and historical use rather than comprehensive scientific studies.
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 2026-02-24 01:03:41 GMT (p2)