FlavScents AInsights Entry: Ylang Ylang Flower Oil (CAS: 8006-81-3)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Ylang ylang flower oil is a complex natural material derived from the flowers of the Cananga odorata tree. It is not a single compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for ylang ylang flower oil is 8006-81-3. It does not have a specific IUPAC name due to its complex nature. The oil is recognized by FEMA with the number 3119. Other identifiers include its FL number, which is 02.078, and it is referenced in IFRA standards for fragrance use.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Ylang ylang flower oil is renowned for its rich, floral, and sweet aroma with hints of jasmine and neroli. It is often described as having a heady, exotic scent with a slightly fruity undertone. The oil is highly diffusive and has a strong intensity, making it a prominent impact note in both fragrances and flavors. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, its potent aroma suggests a low threshold for sensory detection. It is typically used as a top to middle note in perfumery, providing a lush, floral character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ylang ylang flower oil is naturally sourced from the flowers of the Cananga odorata tree, which is native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and the Philippines. The oil is extracted through steam distillation, a process that captures the volatile aromatic compounds. The designation of "natural fragrance" or "natural flavor" is applicable due to its direct derivation from plant material without synthetic alteration.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, ylang ylang flower oil is used to impart a floral and exotic note to various products, including beverages, confectionery, and desserts. It functions as a flavor modifier and impact note, enhancing the complexity of the flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. The oil is relatively stable under normal food processing conditions but may degrade under high heat or prolonged exposure to air.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Ylang ylang flower oil is a staple in the fragrance industry, used across various fragrance families, including floral, oriental, and chypre. It serves as a key impact note, providing depth and richness to perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations vary from 0.5% to 5%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. The oil contributes primarily as a top to middle note due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

Ylang ylang flower oil contains several key constituents, including linalool, benzyl acetate, methyl benzoate, and geranyl acetate. These compounds contribute to its characteristic floral aroma. The composition of the oil can vary significantly based on factors such as geographic origin, harvest time, and distillation process.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, ylang ylang flower oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for flavor use by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific guidelines for its use in flavors and fragrances. In Latin America, regulations may vary, but it is generally accepted in MERCOSUR countries.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, ylang ylang flower oil is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with no specific ADI established. Dermal exposure in fragrances may pose a risk of sensitization or irritation, and it is subject to IFRA guidelines to mitigate these risks. Inhalation exposure is generally considered safe at typical fragrance concentrations, but occupational exposure should be managed to prevent respiratory irritation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Ylang ylang flower oil is valued for its ability to impart a luxurious floral note. It synergizes well with other floral and citrus oils, 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 impact. It is frequently used in high-end perfumes and niche flavor applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on ylang ylang flower oil is well-established, with extensive documentation in both flavor and fragrance contexts. Industry practices are well-documented, though some variability in composition and regulatory interpretations exists. Known data gaps include specific sensory thresholds and comprehensive toxicological profiles.

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 2026-03-05 18:29:16 GMT (p2)