FlavScents AInsights Entry: Wormwood Oil Poland (CAS: 8008-93-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Wormwood oil, also known as Artemisia absinthium oil, is a complex natural material derived from the plant Artemisia absinthium, commonly referred to as wormwood. It is a natural complex material rather than a single compound, and its composition can vary significantly based on factors such as geographic origin, harvest time, and processing methods. The CAS number for wormwood oil is 8008-93-3. While it does not have a specific FEMA number, it is recognized in various regulatory frameworks for its use in flavors and fragrances. Wormwood oil is characterized by its complex mixture of terpenes and other volatile compounds, which contribute to its distinctive aroma and flavor profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Wormwood oil is renowned for its intense, herbaceous, and slightly bitter aroma, often described as green, camphoraceous, and woody. The oil's sensory profile is dominated by its high content of thujone, which imparts a sharp, medicinal note. The intensity of wormwood oil makes it suitable as an impact note in both flavor and fragrance formulations, where it can add depth and complexity. The taste threshold for wormwood oil is relatively low, meaning that even small amounts can significantly influence the overall flavor profile of a product.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Wormwood oil is primarily obtained from the aerial parts of the Artemisia absinthium plant, which is native to Europe but also cultivated in other regions such as North America and Asia. The oil is typically extracted through steam distillation. As a natural product, wormwood oil can be labeled as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" in accordance with various regulatory definitions, provided it is used in compliance with applicable guidelines.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In the flavor industry, wormwood oil is used primarily in alcoholic beverages, most notably in the production of absinthe and vermouth, where it contributes to the characteristic bitter and herbal notes. The typical use levels in beverages range from 0.5 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. Wormwood oil is sensitive to heat and oxidation, which can alter its sensory properties, so it is often added at the final stages of production to preserve its aromatic qualities.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Wormwood oil is utilized in the fragrance industry for its unique, herbaceous scent, which can enhance the complexity of various fragrance compositions. It is commonly found in fougère and chypre fragrance families, where it serves as a modifier or impact note. The oil's volatility makes it suitable for top and middle notes, with typical concentrations in fragrance formulations ranging from trace amounts to 0.5%. Its distinctive aroma can provide a fresh, green character to perfumes and other scented products.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
Wormwood oil is composed of several key constituents, including thujone (both alpha and beta isomers), camphor, and pinene. The concentration of these constituents can vary, but thujone is typically the most prominent, contributing significantly to the oil's sensory characteristics. The composition of wormwood oil is influenced by factors such as the plant's growing conditions and the distillation process.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, wormwood oil is subject to FDA regulations, and its use in food and beverages is limited due to the presence of thujone, which is restricted in certain applications. In the European Union, wormwood oil is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, with specific limits on thujone content. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, regulations vary, with some countries imposing strict limits on thujone. In Latin America, regulatory frameworks may differ, and it is essential to consult local guidelines for specific requirements.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
The safety of wormwood oil is primarily influenced by its thujone content, which can pose risks of neurotoxicity at high exposure levels. For oral exposure, the acceptable daily intake (ADI) is not clearly established, and formulators should adhere to industry-typical limits to ensure safety. Dermal exposure in fragrances may cause irritation or sensitization, and IFRA provides guidelines for safe use levels. Inhalation exposure should be minimized in occupational settings due to the oil's volatility and potential respiratory effects.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Wormwood oil is valued for its ability to impart a distinctive herbal character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other herbal and citrus notes, enhancing the overall complexity of formulations. However, formulators should be cautious of its intense aroma and potential regulatory restrictions, particularly concerning thujone content. Overuse can lead to overpowering or unbalanced products, so precise dosing is crucial.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on wormwood oil is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and key constituents. However, regulatory guidelines and safety data may vary, and formulators should verify compliance with regional regulations. Industry practices often rely on historical usage patterns, but ongoing research may provide new insights into its applications and safety.
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 2026-11-02 06:32:35 GMT (p2)
