FlavScents AInsights Entry for Galbanum Oil (CAS: 8023-91-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Galbanum oil is a natural complex material derived from the resin of the Ferula galbaniflua plant. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for galbanum oil is 8023-91-4. It does not have a specific FEMA number due to its complex nature. Other identifiers include its use in IFRA standards and its presence in various fragrance and flavor databases. As a natural complex material, it does not have a defined molecular formula or molecular weight. The composition of galbanum oil can vary significantly depending on its geographical origin, harvest time, and processing methods.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Galbanum oil is renowned for its distinctive green, balsamic, and woody aroma, often described as having a sharp, resinous, and slightly spicy character. It is a powerful impact note in both flavors and fragrances, providing a fresh, green top note that can enhance the complexity of a formulation. The intensity of its aroma is high, and it is known for its excellent diffusion properties. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, galbanum oil is typically used in small quantities due to its potent sensory profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Galbanum oil is obtained from the resin of the Ferula galbaniflua plant, which is native to Iran and other parts of the Middle East. The resin is collected and then steam-distilled to produce the essential oil. This oil is considered a natural fragrance and flavor material, aligning with the "natural" designation in many regulatory frameworks. The formation of its characteristic aroma compounds involves complex biosynthetic pathways within the plant, including the enzymatic conversion of terpenes and other precursors.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, galbanum oil is used to impart a green, herbaceous note, often in conjunction with citrus or herbal flavors. It is commonly found in flavor categories such as mint, citrus, and herbal blends. Its functional role is typically as an impact note or modifier, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. Galbanum oil is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under prolonged exposure to heat or light.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Galbanum oil is a staple in the fragrance industry, particularly in chypre and fougère fragrance families. It serves as a top note, providing a fresh, green opening that enhances the overall complexity of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.1% to 2%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Its volatility is moderate, contributing primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

Galbanum oil typically contains a variety of terpenes and sesquiterpenes, with major constituents including β-pinene, α-pinene, limonene, and myrcene. The composition can vary significantly based on factors such as geographic origin and processing methods. These constituents are responsible for the characteristic green and resinous aroma of the oil.

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

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, galbanum oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, with specific FL numbers assigned to its constituents. Post-Brexit, the United Kingdom aligns closely with EU regulations but may have specific nuances. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have their own regulatory frameworks, often requiring specific approvals for use in food and cosmetics. In Latin America, regulations can vary, with Brazil and MERCOSUR countries having distinct guidelines.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, galbanum oil is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, but it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals. IFRA provides guidelines on its use in fragrances to minimize such risks. Inhalation exposure is typically low-risk due to its moderate volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with appropriate ventilation and protective measures. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are generally similar, with dermal exposure being the primary concern in fragrance use.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Galbanum oil is valued for its unique green and resinous aroma, which can enhance both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with citrus, herbal, and woody notes, providing a fresh and complex character. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can dominate a composition. It is often under-used in modern formulations, where its distinctive profile can add a classic touch to contemporary designs.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on galbanum oil is well-established, with extensive documentation in both flavor and fragrance literature. Industry practices are well-documented, though some variability exists due to the natural variability of the oil's composition. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, with clear guidelines provided by major regulatory bodies.

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 2026-02-13 13:22:15 GMT (p2)