FlavScents AInsights Entry for Backhousia Citriodora Leaf Oil (CAS: 84775-80-4)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Lemon Myrtle Oil, Backhousia Citriodora Leaf Oil
- CAS Number: 84775-80-4
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Material Type: Natural complex material (essential oil)
- Source: Extracted from the leaves of Backhousia citriodora, a plant native to Australia.
Backhousia citriodora leaf oil is a natural complex material, primarily composed of citral, which is responsible for its characteristic lemon-like aroma. The composition of this essential oil 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
Backhousia citriodora leaf oil is renowned for its strong, fresh, and sweet lemon aroma, which is primarily attributed to its high citral content. The oil is often described as having a clean, citrusy scent with a hint of herbal undertones. It is considered an impact note in both flavor and fragrance applications due to its intense and diffusive lemon character. The taste and odor thresholds for this oil are not well-documented, but its potent aroma suggests it is effective even at low concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Backhousia citriodora, commonly known as lemon myrtle, is native to the subtropical rainforests of Queensland, Australia. The essential oil is obtained through steam distillation of the leaves. The primary component, citral, is naturally occurring and contributes to the oil's designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance." The formation of citral in the plant is a result of its biosynthetic pathways, which are typical of many citrus-scented plants.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Backhousia citriodora leaf oil is used in a variety of flavor applications, particularly in beverages, confectionery, and culinary products where a strong lemon flavor is desired. It serves as an impact note and can also enhance the overall citrus profile of a flavor system. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering flavors. The oil is relatively stable under normal conditions but may degrade under high heat or prolonged exposure to air.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, backhousia citriodora leaf oil is valued for its fresh, lemony scent and is used in a variety of product types, including perfumes, soaps, and household cleaners. It functions as a top note, providing an immediate burst of freshness. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. The oil's volatility makes it suitable for top note applications, contributing to the initial impression of a fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
- Citral: 70-90%
- Citronellal: 1-5%
- Linalool: 1-3%
The composition of backhousia citriodora leaf oil can vary based on factors such as origin, harvest time, and processing methods. Citral is the major constituent, responsible for the oil's characteristic lemon aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.
- European Union: Regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; no specific FL number.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Limited specific regulations; generally follows international guidelines.
- Latin America: No specific regulations identified; typically aligns with international standards.
The regulatory status of backhousia citriodora leaf oil varies, with harmonized assumptions in many regions but some country-specific variability.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, backhousia citriodora leaf oil is generally considered safe when used in food at low concentrations. No specific ADI or MSDI values are available, but its use is typically guided by industry standards and good manufacturing practices. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications may pose a risk of irritation or sensitization, particularly due to its high citral content. IFRA provides guidelines to mitigate these risks. Inhalation exposure is generally considered safe at typical fragrance concentrations, though occupational exposure should be managed to avoid respiratory irritation.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Backhousia citriodora leaf oil is prized for its intense lemon aroma, making it a valuable addition to both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other citrus and herbal notes, enhancing freshness and complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to overpowering or harsh notes. It is often under-utilized in complex blends where its impact can be effectively balanced with other components.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on backhousia citriodora leaf oil is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and key constituents. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data are less comprehensive, relying on industry-typical practices and general safety guidelines. Known data gaps include detailed toxicological studies and specific regulatory approvals in some 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 15:45:09 GMT (p2)