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CARVACROL

CAS
499-75-2
EC
—
Material type
synthetic aroma chemical
Canonical source
arctander

Carvacrol, with CAS number 499-75-2, is a synthetic aroma chemical known for its warm, spicy, and herbaceous scent profile. It is commonly derived from the oil of oregano and is often used in perfumery to impart a rich, aromatic character reminiscent of herbs and spices. Carvacrol typically finds its place in fragrance compositions that aim to evoke a sense of warmth and earthiness, making it suitable for both masculine and unisex fragrances. In formulations, it can be used in various concentrations, often as a supporting note in accords that feature woody, aromatic, or even gourmand elements. While Carvacrol is valued for its olfactory properties, it is important to note that it may be subject to regulatory scrutiny, particularly regarding its potential allergenic effects. As with many aromatic compounds, perfumers should be mindful of safety guidelines and any applicable IFRA restrictions when incorporating Carvacrol into their formulations. — AI-generated summary, 2026-09-02.

Formulation

Usage guidance

Suggested min
—
Suggested max
—
Cost
£300/kg
Stock
—
Compatibility tags
citrusmodifier
How it behaves

Olfactory profile

Family
industrial
Note tendency
Base
Descriptors
spicyherbaceousphenolicmedicinal

Sharp, pungent phenolic-herbaceous odor strongly reminiscent of oregano and thyme, with a warm, dry, slightly medicinal character. Carries a peppery bite and a persistent tarry-spicy undertone that lingers with a mildly antiseptic feel.AI · claude-opus-4-7

Intensity
8 / 10
Tenacity
7 / 10
Volatility
5 / 10
Members

The rest of this material

Composition, IFRA restriction figures, allergen concentrations and where this material is bought are part of Perfume Foundry’s curated library and need an account. Create one or sign in.

Reverse-composition

Contained in

Other ingredients whose composition declares this material as a constituent. The percentage shown is the supplier-declared concentration in that parent.

Ingredient%Range
PINK PEPPER ESSENTIAL OIL—0.1–1%
CISTUS OIL (ROCK ROSE)0.18%—
chemicals · No. 573

Arctander monograph

Perfume and Flavor Chemicals, page 240.

BASEtenacity · moderatepower · strongG.R.A.S.FEMA 2245
medicinalherbaceousspicy
MW
150.23
BP
238°C
MP
1°C
Sp.Gr.
0.98
Refractive n
—
Rotation
—
Appearance

Colorless liquid.

Solubility

Very slightly soluble in water, miscible with alcohol and oils, soluble in Propylene glycol.

Odor

Penetrating, dry-medicinal (“phenolic”) - herbaceous odor with a spicy undertone.

Flavor

Used in flavor compositions, mainly in spice and meat flavors, Citrus compositions, Mint flavors, etc. Furthermore as a modifier in certain types of Mouthwash flavor.

Uses in perfumery

Used in perfume compositions, mainly in industrial fragrances, certain types of “heavy-duty” household fragrances, soap perfumes, etc.

Production

Produced (several methods) e. g. by sulfonation of para-Cymene to para-Cymene-2-sulfonic acid, followed by alkali fusion. Thymol is a by-product in that synthesis.

Identity
Aliases · 8
Carvacrol — custom:56a111CARVACROL2-Hydroxy-para-cymene2-Methyl-5-iso-propylphenol2-para-CymenolCymophenoliso-Propyl-ortho-cresoliso-Thymol
Compliance note. Restriction data is sourced directly from IFRA publications and preserved with its document excerpt. Perfume Foundry is a compliance-support tool — not a substitute for a qualified safety assessor (CPSR / PIF).