FlavScents AInsights Entry for Aesculus Hippocastanum Flower Extract (CAS: 8053-39-2)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Horse Chestnut Flower Extract
- CAS Number: 8053-39-2
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: Not applicable
- Material Type: Natural complex material derived from the flowers of the Aesculus hippocastanum tree.
- Source: The extract is obtained through processes such as solvent extraction or steam distillation of the horse chestnut flowers.
- Key Constituents: See section 5a for details.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Aesculus hippocastanum flower extract is characterized by a delicate floral aroma with subtle green and woody undertones. The scent is often described as fresh and slightly sweet, contributing to its use in both flavor and fragrance applications. The intensity of the odor is moderate, making it suitable as a background note or modifier in complex formulations. Specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, but the extract is typically used to impart a natural floral character.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
The horse chestnut tree, Aesculus hippocastanum, is native to the Balkan Peninsula but is widely cultivated in temperate regions. The flowers are harvested in spring, and the extract is obtained through processes such as steam distillation or solvent extraction. The extract is considered a natural ingredient, aligning with "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations when derived from appropriately sourced and processed materials.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Aesculus hippocastanum flower extract is used in flavor applications primarily for its floral and slightly sweet notes. It is commonly found in confectionery, beverages, and dairy products. The extract serves as a background realism enhancer or a modifier in flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 10 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. The extract is generally stable under typical food processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance formulations, aesculus hippocastanum flower extract is valued for its fresh, floral aroma. It is used in a variety of fragrance families, including floral, green, and woody compositions. The extract acts as a modifier or impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.1% to 1%. The extract's volatility is moderate, allowing it to blend well with other fragrance components.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
- Major Constituents: Flavonoids, saponins, and tannins are typically present in the extract.
- Character-Impact Compounds: Specific compounds contributing to the floral aroma include various terpenes and alcohols.
- Variability: The composition of the extract can vary significantly based on the geographical origin, harvest time, and extraction method.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage in flavors and fragrances should comply with general safety standards.
- European Union: Regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; specific FL number not assigned.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Limited specific regulations; general safety and quality standards apply.
- Latin America: Usage is subject to national regulations; no specific MERCOSUR guidelines identified.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI established; usage should be guided by general safety assessments and industry practices.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe for use in fragrances; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific restrictions.
- Inhalation Exposure: Moderate volatility suggests low risk in typical fragrance applications; occupational exposure limits are not specifically defined.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Aesculus hippocastanum flower extract is valued for its ability to impart a natural floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and green notes, enhancing the overall complexity of formulations. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent, and underuse, which may result in a lack of desired floral impact. Formulators should consider the extract's stability under various processing conditions to maintain its sensory qualities.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on aesculus hippocastanum flower extract is well-established in terms of sensory characteristics and typical applications. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on general industry practices and safety assessments. Known data gaps include precise odor thresholds and comprehensive regulatory listings across all regions.
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 2026-04-28 14:13:44 GMT (p2)