FlavScents AInsights Entry for Beta-Patchoulene (CAS: 514-51-2)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Beta-Patchoulene
- IUPAC Name: (1R,4R,4aS,8aR)-1,2,3,4,4a,5,6,7,8,8a-Decahydro-1,4a-dimethyl-7-(1-methylethyl)naphthalene
- CAS Number: 514-51-2
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C15H24
- Molecular Weight: 204.35 g/mol
- Functional Groups and Structure-Odor Relevance: Beta-patchoulene is a sesquiterpene hydrocarbon, characterized by its bicyclic structure. The presence of isopropyl and methyl groups contributes to its woody and earthy odor profile, which is significant in perfumery.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Beta-patchoulene is known for its distinctive woody, earthy, and slightly spicy aroma. It is often described as having a deep, rich scent that is reminiscent of patchouli oil, with moderate intensity and diffusion. The compound serves as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing depth and complexity. Odor thresholds are not clearly reported, but its sensory role is primarily as a background realism enhancer in both flavors and fragrances.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Beta-patchoulene is naturally found in patchouli oil, which is derived from the leaves of the Pogostemon cablin plant. It is formed through the biosynthesis of sesquiterpenes in the plant. This compound is relevant to the "natural fragrance" designation due to its occurrence in essential oils. Its presence in natural sources makes it a valuable component in the formulation of natural and organic products.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Beta-patchoulene is used in flavor applications primarily for its woody and earthy notes, which can enhance the complexity of certain flavor profiles. It is typically used in small quantities, often less than 10 ppm, to avoid overpowering other flavor components. Its stability under heat and varying pH levels makes it suitable for a range of food and beverage applications. However, it is more commonly utilized in fragrance rather than flavor formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, beta-patchoulene is valued for its contribution to woody and oriental fragrance families. It acts as a base note, providing longevity and depth to perfumes and scented products. Typical concentration ranges from trace amounts to about 1% in finished products, depending on the desired intensity. Its low volatility ensures it remains as a lasting note in fragrance compositions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Beta-patchoulene is not specifically listed as a FEMA GRAS substance for flavor use, but it is used in fragrances without specific restrictions.
- European Union: It is not individually listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 but is used in fragrance applications.
- United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align closely with the EU, with no specific divergence noted for beta-patchoulene.
- Asia: In countries like Japan and China, beta-patchoulene is used in fragrances, but specific regulatory details are limited.
- Latin America: Usage is generally aligned with international fragrance standards, though specific national regulations may vary.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Not typically relevant due to its primary use in fragrances. No ADI or MSDI values are available.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe in fragrance applications, with no significant reports of irritation or sensitization. IFRA standards should be consulted for specific use levels.
- Inhalation Exposure: As a component of fragrances, it is used at levels considered safe for consumer products. Occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Beta-patchoulene is prized for its ability to impart a rich, woody character to fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other woody and spicy notes, enhancing the overall depth of the fragrance. Formulators should be cautious of its intensity, as overuse can dominate a blend. It is often under-utilized in flavor applications due to its strong aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on beta-patchoulene is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and use in fragrances. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data, particularly for flavor applications. Industry practices often rely on empirical knowledge and historical usage patterns.
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
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)
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 2026-09-01 08:37:44 GMT (p2)