Vetivert oil
[CAS# 8016-96-4]

Identification

• Classification: Food additive >> Food spice >> Natural spice additives
• Name: Vetivert oil
• Molecular Formula: C₈₀H₁₃₈B₄O₁₂
• Molecular Weight: 1335.19
• CAS Registry Number: 8016-96-4
• EC Number: 616-993-4
• SMILES: C1(C(C)(C)OB(O1)C=C(CCC)C(C)(CCCCCC)O)(C)C.C2(C(C)(C)OB(C=C(CCC)C(C)(CCCC)O)O2)(C)C.C3(=CC=CC=C3)C(C(=CB4OC(C(C)(C)O4)(C)C)CCCCCCCC)(C5CC5)O.C7(C(C)(C)OB(C=C(CCC)C(C6=CC=CC=C6)O)O7)(C)C

Safety Data

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411

Discovory and Applicatios

Vetiver oil is an essential oil obtained from the roots of *Chrysopogon zizanioides*, a perennial grass native to India and widely cultivated in tropical regions. The extraction process typically involves steam distillation of the washed and dried roots, yielding an oil characterized by a deep, woody, and earthy aroma. The chemical composition of vetiver oil is complex, consisting of sesquiterpenes, sesquiterpenols, and sesquiterpenones, with key constituents including vetiverol, vetivone, and khusimol. The specific composition varies depending on geographical origin, soil conditions, and extraction methods.

The fragrance industry has long recognized vetiver oil as a valuable ingredient in perfumery. It is commonly used as a base note due to its fixative properties, which help to stabilize and prolong the longevity of other volatile fragrance compounds. Vetiver oil blends well with floral, citrus, and woody notes, making it a key component in high-quality perfumes, colognes, and personal care products such as lotions, soaps, and deodorants. Its distinctive scent profile has contributed to its continued demand in luxury fragrance formulations.

Vetiver oil has established applications in aromatics and the flavoring industry. While its use in food-grade applications is limited, it has been included in trace amounts as a flavoring agent in certain beverages and confectionery products. Regulatory guidelines define its acceptable concentrations in consumable products to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Industrial applications of vetiver oil extend to its role in the production of natural insect repellents, where it is included in formulations designed for textile treatments and household products. Additionally, its compatibility with biodegradable formulations supports its use in eco-friendly cleaning solutions and odor-neutralizing products.

The cultivation and processing of vetiver roots for oil extraction follow industry standards that ensure consistency in yield, quality, and chemical composition. Vetiver oil remains an essential material in perfumery, cosmetics, and specialty industrial applications, with its long-established role in these industries reflecting its functional and aromatic properties.