FlavScents AInsights Entry for Myroxylon Toluiferum Extract
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Myroxylon toluiferum extract, Tolu balsam
- CAS Number: 12/5/13
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Material Type: Natural complex material (extract)
- Source: Myroxylon toluiferum, a tree native to Central and South America
- Description: Myroxylon toluiferum extract is derived from the resin of the Myroxylon toluiferum tree. It is a complex mixture of various compounds, primarily used in flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Myroxylon toluiferum extract is characterized by its warm, sweet, and balsamic aroma with notes of vanilla and cinnamon. It is often described as having a rich, resinous scent that can add depth and warmth to both flavors and fragrances. The intensity of the odor is moderate, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in formulations. The extract is known for its ability to enhance the overall sensory experience by providing a comforting and familiar aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Myroxylon toluiferum extract is naturally sourced from the resin of the Myroxylon toluiferum tree, commonly found in Central and South America. The resin is collected and processed to produce the extract, which is then used in various applications. The extract is considered a natural flavor and fragrance material due to its direct derivation from plant sources. The formation of the extract involves the collection of resin, followed by purification and concentration processes to obtain the desired aromatic profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Myroxylon toluiferum extract is utilized in a variety of flavor categories, including confectionery, bakery, and beverages. It serves as a flavor enhancer, providing a sweet and balsamic note that complements vanilla, chocolate, and spice flavors. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and application. The extract is stable under typical processing conditions, but care should be taken to avoid excessive heat, which may alter its aromatic profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, Myroxylon toluiferum extract is valued for its warm, balsamic aroma, making it a popular choice in oriental and woody fragrance families. It is used as a base note, providing longevity and depth to perfumes and scented products. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the desired effect. The extract's moderate volatility allows it to contribute to both the middle and base notes of a fragrance composition.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
- Benzyl benzoate
- Cinnamic acid
- Vanillin
- Cinnamyl cinnamate
The composition of Myroxylon toluiferum extract can vary based on factors such as geographic origin, harvest time, and processing methods. These constituents are responsible for the extract's characteristic aroma and flavor profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Myroxylon toluiferum extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food by FEMA.
- European Union: Approved for use in food flavorings under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Limited specific regulations; generally follows international guidelines.
- Latin America: Recognized for use in flavors and fragrances, with specific regulations varying by country.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Considered safe for use in food at typical levels; no specific ADI established.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing at typical fragrance concentrations; IFRA standards apply.
- Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces inhalation risk; occupational exposure limits not specifically established.
The safety profile of Myroxylon toluiferum extract is consistent across food and fragrance applications, with no significant differences in risk profiles.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Myroxylon toluiferum extract is valued for its ability to impart a warm, sweet, and balsamic character to formulations. It synergizes well with vanilla, cinnamon, and other spice notes, enhancing the overall sensory experience. Formulators should be mindful of its moderate intensity to avoid overpowering other components. It is often underutilized in complex fragrance compositions where its depth can add significant value.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on Myroxylon toluiferum extract is well-established, with consistent sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are well-documented, some variability in composition due to natural factors remains. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, with harmonized guidelines across major 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 2026-11-12 09:36:13 GMT (p2)