Labdanum Absolute 50% DPG

Natural Ingredient Overview

• 🏭 Manufacturer (if available): Multi-source (Spain, Morocco, France)

• 🔎 Chemical name: Labdanum resin absolute, 50% in dipropylene glycol

• 🧪 Synonyms: Labdanum resinoid, Cistus absolute, Labdanum 50 DPG

• 🧬 Chemical Formula: Complex mixture of labdane diterpenoids and aromatic resins

• 📂 CAS N°: 8016-26-0

• 📘 FEMA: Not listed

• ⚖️ MW: Not applicable (natural complex substance)

• 📝 Odor type: Leathery

• 📈 Odor Strength: High

• 👃🏼 Odor Profile: Leathery, amber-like, sweet balsamic with caramel and dried grape notes

• ⚗️ Uses: Oriental, amber, fougère and chypre bases; fixative and background note in complex compositions

• 🧴 Appearance: Viscous brown liquid (when diluted); dark brown solid or paste in pure form

What is Labdanum Absolute 50% DPG?

Labdanum Absolute is obtained from the gum-resin exudate of Cistus ladaniferus, a shrub native to the Mediterranean basin. The resin is solvent-extracted—typically using a hydrocarbon solvent—and refined into an absolute. In this version, the absolute is diluted to 50% in dipropylene glycol to improve solubility and dosing accuracy. Rich in labdane-type diterpenes and resinoid components, labdanum has been historically valued for its olfactory resemblance to animalic materials such as ambergris and castoreum. It is widely used in fine fragrance for its fixative power and resinous complexity.

Olfactory Profile and Perfumery Applications

Labdanum Absolute 50% DPG exhibits a deep, tenacious leathery and balsamic odor with facets of sweet amber, burnt caramel, and sun-dried fruits. It is commonly placed in the base note range of compositions, where it anchors lighter materials and extends the wear of volatile top and heart notes. It plays a pivotal role in constructing amber accords, leather notes, and resinous-chypre structures. Its complex sweetness and warmth pair well with patchouli, oakmoss, benzoin, vanillin, and citrus absolutes. Due to its density, it is often pre-diluted for practical formulation use, as in this 50% DPG variant.

Industrial and Technical Uses

Outside fine perfumery, labdanum extract is used in incense production, scented waxes, and natural fixative blends. While it holds no significant role in flavoring or pharmaceutical formulations, its historical usage dates back to ancient Egypt and Greece, primarily in ritual or aromatic applications. Labdanum derivatives have also been studied for potential antioxidant and antimicrobial properties due to their phenolic content, but this does not currently influence its role in fragrance formulation.

Regulatory and Safety Overview

• IFRA Restrictions: Listed under IFRA Category 4 (dosage limits apply in some products; see IFRA Standards for specifics)

• EU Allergens: May contain naturally occurring constituents such as cinnamic alcohol, eugenol, and benzyl alcohol

• FEMA GRAS Number: Not applicable (not used in flavor)

• ECHA Classification: Not classified as hazardous for perfumery use; no specific GHS classification

• REACH Registration: Registered in the EU for cosmetic and fragrance applications

• Toxicology Notes: No identified endocrine-disrupting activity. Sensitization potential considered low in diluted form.

✅ May require allergen labeling under EU 1223/2009 if used above specified thresholds. Always follow IFRA guidelines for safe use.

Ingredient Connections and Synergies

Labdanum Absolute shares olfactory territory with oakmoss extract, castoreum resinoid, and benzoin Siam, all of which contribute warmth and fixation to base accords. It is especially relevant when constructing amber bases, leather accords, and oriental structures. It also forms a synergistic trio with patchouli and vanillin, extending longevity and adding depth to compositions.

Sources

• Steffen Arctander – Perfume and Flavor Materials of Natural Origin

• IFRA Standards Documentation (51st Amendment)

• ECHA Substance Information Portal

• PubChem Compound Database

• Fulvio Ciccolo – Internal notes archive Scentspiracy

• Technical datasheets from European labdanum suppliers