FlavScents AInsights Entry: Geranium Oil (CAS: 8000-46-2)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Geranium oil is a natural complex material derived from the leaves and stems of the Pelargonium species, primarily Pelargonium graveolens. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for geranium oil is 8000-46-2. It does not have a specific FEMA number as it is a complex mixture. Other identifiers include its use in IFRA standards and its presence in various fragrance and flavor databases. The composition of geranium oil can vary significantly depending on the geographical origin, harvest time, and processing methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Geranium oil is characterized by its fresh, floral, and slightly minty aroma with a rosy nuance. It is often described as having a green and herbaceous undertone, contributing to its complexity. The intensity of the odor is moderate to strong, making it a prominent note in both flavors and fragrances. Geranium oil is typically used as an impact note or a modifier to add depth and realism to floral compositions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Geranium oil is naturally sourced from the leaves and stems of Pelargonium species, particularly Pelargonium graveolens. The oil is obtained through steam distillation, a process that captures the volatile aromatic compounds. Geranium oil is considered a natural fragrance and flavor material, aligning with consumer preferences for natural products. Its formation involves the enzymatic breakdown of plant materials during distillation, which releases the essential oil components.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, geranium oil is used to impart a floral and slightly fruity note. It is commonly found in flavor categories such as confectionery, beverages, and baked goods. The typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. Geranium oil is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but can be sensitive to high heat and prolonged exposure to air, which may lead to oxidation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Geranium oil is a versatile ingredient in the fragrance industry, used in a wide range of product types including perfumes, soaps, and lotions. It is a key component in floral fragrance families and serves as a modifier or impact note. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations vary from 0.5% to 5%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Geranium oil contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
Geranium oil contains several key constituents, including citronellol, geraniol, linalool, and isomenthone. These compounds contribute to its characteristic aroma and functional properties. The composition of geranium oil can vary based on factors such as geographic origin and processing methods, which should be considered during formulation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, geranium 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 is included in the list of flavoring substances. The UK follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have their own regulatory frameworks, which generally align with international standards. In Latin America, countries such as Brazil and those in MERCOSUR have specific regulations for natural flavoring substances.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Geranium oil is considered safe for use in both flavor and fragrance applications when used within recommended levels. For oral exposure, the acceptable daily intake (ADI) is not specifically established, but it is used within industry-typical levels. Dermal exposure considerations include potential irritation and sensitization, which are addressed by IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is generally considered safe, but occupational exposure limits should be observed in manufacturing settings.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Geranium oil is valued for its ability to impart a natural floral aroma with a hint of freshness. It synergizes well with other floral and citrus notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent, and underuse, which may result in a lack of desired impact. Formulators should consider the variability in composition when sourcing geranium oil to ensure consistency.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on geranium oil is well-established, with extensive documentation in both flavor and fragrance applications. Industry practices are generally consistent, although some variability exists due to natural composition differences. Known data gaps include specific numeric thresholds for certain regulatory regions, which require careful consideration by formulators.
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 13:27:01 GMT (p2)
