Nerolidol (DSM/Firmenich) AC

A versatile fragrance raw material with a soft, floral and slightly fruity signature.

Nerolidol is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene (found in jasmine, neroli, ginger, and guava, among others) and is produced in high purity by Firmenich for use in perfumery and cosmetics.

Fragrance profile

• Floral, soft and natural, with nuances of orange blossom and jasmine
• Subtle green and citrusy facets
• Medium fragrance strength, works as a heart to base note
• Provides a round, soothing floral note and prolongs the freshness of citrus

Use in perfumery

• Role : Fixative and blender; softens sharp florals and adds body to citrus accords
• Combinations :
  • Florals: rose, jasmine, lily of the valley, gardenia
  • Woody: sandalwood, cedar, vetiver
  • Sweet/balsamic: tonka bean, Peru and tolu balsam
• Dosage : usually 0.1–10% in the composition; stable in soaps and cosmetics

 

Other applications

• Widely used in cosmetics, soaps and detergents for its soft, natural scent
• Naturally occurring in several essential oils, giving it a familiar and natural character

 

Tips for DIY perfumers

• Use Nerolidol as a “bridge” between fresh citrus notes and heavier florals or woods
• Ideal for making a perfume softer and rounder without losing the freshness
• Combine with honeysuckle or peony for a transparent floral accord
• In low doses it gives a subtle, natural depth; in higher doses it can give a perfume a creamy, floral base

Interesting Fact
Nerolidol is structurally related to farnesol and linalool, but is distinguished by its softer, more “floral” scent.
It is often used as a silent but indispensable building block in modern perfumes.

Naturally occurs in the essential oil of: Neroli (orange blossom), Thyme, Peruvian Balsam, Tolu Balsam, Jasmine and Ylang Ylang.