FlavScents AInsights Entry for Viridiflorol (CAS: 552-02-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Viridiflorol
- IUPAC Name: (1S,4aS,8aS)-1,2,3,4,4a,5,6,7,8,8a-Decahydro-1,4a-dimethyl-7-(1-methylethyl)naphthalen-2-ol
- CAS Number: 552-02-3
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C15H26O
- Molecular Weight: 222.37 g/mol
Viridiflorol is a sesquiterpene alcohol characterized by its bicyclic structure, which contributes to its unique olfactory properties. The presence of hydroxyl groups and isopropyl substituents influences its odor profile, making it a valuable component in fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Viridiflorol is known for its woody, earthy aroma with subtle floral and herbal nuances. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and a smooth, diffusive quality that makes it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in fragrance compositions. The odor threshold for viridiflorol is not well-documented, but it is typically used in concentrations that allow it to enhance the overall complexity of a fragrance without overpowering other components.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Viridiflorol is naturally found in several essential oils, including eucalyptus, niaouli, and tea tree oils. It is biosynthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway, which is responsible for the production of terpenoids. Its presence in essential oils contributes to their designation as "natural fragrances," aligning with consumer preferences for natural products.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Viridiflorol is not commonly used in flavor applications due to its primarily woody and earthy aroma, which is more suited to fragrance than flavor. However, when used, it can contribute to the complexity of herbal or spice flavors. Typical use levels in flavor systems are not well-documented, but industry estimates suggest it is used at low concentrations, typically below 10 ppm, to avoid overpowering other flavor notes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, viridiflorol is valued for its ability to impart a natural, woody character to perfumes and personal care products. It is commonly used in chypre, fougère, and woody fragrance families. Viridiflorol acts as a base note, providing longevity and depth to compositions. Typical concentration ranges in fragrances are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Viridiflorol is not specifically listed by FEMA as GRAS for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is subject to general safety guidelines.
- European Union: Not explicitly listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is regulated under the EU Cosmetics Regulation.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
- Asia: Limited specific regulatory information available; generally follows international safety standards.
- Latin America: Regulatory status varies; generally aligns with international guidelines.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Limited data available; not commonly used in food applications.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe for use in fragrances, with no significant reports of irritation or sensitization. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific use limits.
- Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces inhalation risk; occupational exposure should follow standard safety practices.
Overall, viridiflorol is considered safe for use in fragrances, with a low risk profile when used within recommended guidelines.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Viridiflorol is prized for its ability to enhance the naturalness and complexity of fragrance compositions. It blends well with other woody and herbal notes, providing a smooth transition between top and base notes. Formulators should be cautious of its intensity, as overuse can lead to an overpowering woody character. It is often underutilized in formulations seeking a subtle, natural enhancement.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on viridiflorol is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data, particularly for flavor use. Industry practices often rely on general safety guidelines and historical use patterns.
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
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)
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 2026-03-12 14:47:26 GMT (p2)