Unlike aroma chemicals, which are produced through chemical synthesis, natural aroma chemicals are complex compounds derived from natural resources, including trees, flowers, plants and animals. Their origins can be traced back to the beginning of recorded time. The Egyptians used the tree resins frankincense (olibanum) and myrrh, burned as incense to appease the gods [1]. And the Classic Herbal, written by Shen Nung in China about 2700 BC also records the use of more than 100 natural aroma chemicals. Natural aroma chemicals are believed to have mood enhancing effects as the various aromas can affect a person's overall mood. Natural aroma chemicals are gentle and are also unlikely to irritate sensitive skin. Due to limited natural resources, variable climatic conditions affect the economy, availability and production. Thus, the range of natural aroma chemicals derived from natural sources is limited. As health consciousness and consumer awareness escalate, people are increasingly preferring natural aroma chemicals over synthetic ones, which will also drive the natural aroma chemicals market to flourish.
Sources
The basic ingredients of natural aroma chemicals are taken from nature, such as plants and animals.
Since ancient times, all types of aromatic plants have been used as a source of natural aroma chemicals. Even today, they remain the greatest source of natural aromatic compounds. Bark, flowers, blossoms, resins, leaves, twigs, fruits, roots, rhizomes, bulbs, seeds and woods are the most common plant sources of natural aroma chemicals. For example, the leaves and twigs of some plants render the green fresh aroma present in many perfumes. Some popular plant varieties include lavender leaves, patchouli, sage, violet and rosemary. Peels such as orange, lemon and lime impart fruit-like aromas. Lichens (fungi and algae growing together), such as oak and tree moss, transmit aromas of bark, seashore and foliage.
The more valuable natural aroma chemicals are mainly sourced from animals. For example, ambergis is the secretion of the sperm whale, which has a sweet, earthy scent and has been used for many years in the production of perfumes. The civet musk derives from the odorous sacs of the African civet. Although once very popular, its use is declining today due to the upsurge in synthetic musk. Castoreum is derived from the sac of the North American beaver and the European beaver. These two species emit this scent in order to mark their territory. It is used in perfume base notes to create a leathery 'new car' smell.
Driven by green awareness, consumers are beginning to believe that natural aroma chemicals are better for our health and well-being as well as our environment. From perfume companies producing natural, green scents to food companies producing healthy, natural products, the appeal of natural aroma chemicals is huge. There is a strong and fairly well-founded belief that the future market for natural aroma chemicals will be as commercially valuable as the market for synthetic aroma chemicals.
What we offer
Alfa Chemistry provides customers with a wide range of natural aroma chemicals. If you do not find what you need, please contact us. We also offer product customization according to customer's detailed requirements.
Reference:
- Frey, C. Natural flavors and fragrances: chemistry, analysis, and production. ACS Symposium Series. 2005: 3-19.
For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
