Chemical structure of Citronellal showcasing the molecular bonds and atomic composition, displayed as a clear, educational diagram for reference in fragrance formulation.
Amber glass bottle labeled "CITRONELLAL" on a neutral background, used to store perfumery raw materials.
Chemical structure of Citronellal showcasing the molecular bonds and atomic composition, displayed as a clear, educational diagram for reference in fragrance formulation.
Amber glass bottle labeled "CITRONELLAL" on a neutral background, used to store perfumery raw materials.

Citronellal

from €7.80

Synthetic Ingredient for Perfumery

Citronellal is a widely used synthetic monoterpenoid aldehyde, valued in perfumery for its vibrant, lemony freshnessand moderate tenacity. It forms the olfactory backbone of citrus and lemongrass accords, often paired with rose and floral structures to add lift, brightness, and a distinctive clean-green edge. With a molecular structure conducive to both natural and industrial synthesis, citronellal plays an essential role across fragrance, flavor, and functional product sectors.

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Synthetic Ingredient for Perfumery

Citronellal is a widely used synthetic monoterpenoid aldehyde, valued in perfumery for its vibrant, lemony freshnessand moderate tenacity. It forms the olfactory backbone of citrus and lemongrass accords, often paired with rose and floral structures to add lift, brightness, and a distinctive clean-green edge. With a molecular structure conducive to both natural and industrial synthesis, citronellal plays an essential role across fragrance, flavor, and functional product sectors.

Technical Ingredient Overview

  • 🔎 Chemical Name — Citronellal

  • 🧪 Synonyms — 3,7-Dimethyl-6-octenal, Rhodinal

  • 🧬 Chemical Formula — C₁₀H₁₈O

  • 📂 CAS — 106-23-0

  • 📘 FEMA — 2303

  • ⚖️ MW — 154.25 g/mol

  • 📝 Odor Type — Citrus, aldehydic, floral

  • 📈 Odor Strength — Medium to strong

  • 👃🏼 Odor Profile — Fresh lemony, citronella-like, slightly green and rosy

  • ⚗️ Uses — Fragrance compositions (citrus, floral, rose), flavoring, insect repellent

  • 🧴 Appearance — Colorless to pale yellow liquid

What is Citronellal?

Citronellal is a monoterpenoid aldehyde naturally found in Cymbopogon nardus and Cymbopogon winterianus. It contributes a characteristic lemony-green scent to citronella oils and serves as a precursor for Citronellol, Menthol Crystals, and Hydroxycitronellal.

Historical Background

Isolated in the 19th century from citronella oil, citronellal became key in the rise of terpene chemistry. Its relevance grew through its role in menthol and aldehydic floral material synthesis during the 20th century.

Olfactory Profile

  • Family: Citrus-floral aldehydic

  • Descriptors: Lemon, citronella, green, rosy

  • Volatility: Top to heart

  • Tenacity: Moderate

  • Fixative Role: Limited

Applications in Fine Fragrance

  • Bright citrus top notes

  • Reconstructed rose accords with Geraniol Fine 98% and Citronellol

  • Green florals and fougères

  • Air fresheners and functional perfumery

Key Pairings

Industrial & Technical Uses

  • Trace-level flavoring agent

  • Key active in insect repellents

  • Intermediate for menthol and citronellol

  • Used in soaps and cleaning products for freshness

Safety & Regulatory Information

  • IFRA: Use restricted (see IFRA 51st Amendment)

  • GHS Classification:

    • Skin Irritant (Cat. 2)

    • Skin Sensitizer (Cat. 1)

    • Aquatic Hazard (Cat. 2)

  • EU Regulation: Allergen labeling required

  • REACH: Registered

  • FEMA: 2303 — GRAS status for food use

  • Storage: Protect from light and air to avoid oxidation

References

  • Arctander, S. (1960). Perfume and Flavor Chemicals (Aroma Chemicals). Montclair, NJ: Published by the author.

  • Sell, C. S. (2019). The Chemistry of Fragrances: From Perfumer to Consumer (3rd ed.). Royal Society of Chemistry.

  • IFRA. (2023). IFRA Standards – 51st Amendment. International Fragrance Association. Retrieved from https://ifrafragrance.org

  • PubChem. (n.d.). Citronellal (CID: 7794). National Center for Biotechnology Information. Retrieved from https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/7794

  • FEMA (Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association). (n.d.). GRAS Substances (SCOGS) Database — FEMA No. 2303.

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