Citronellal
Natural Citronellal
Natural Citronellal is a natural acyclic monoterpene aldehyde isolated via vacuum precision rectificationfrom Java/Ceylon Citronella Oil (Cymbopogon winterianus/C. nardus), predominantly d-(+)-citronellal. It constitutes 30%–40% of the oil, delivering a strong fresh citrus + citronella + rose aroma with subtle woody undertones. A key ingredient for premium fragrances, natural mosquito repellents, it also offers antimicrobial, sedative & insect-repellent properties, with production centered in Southeast Asia & South China.
1. Basic Information
- English Name: Natural Citronellal
- CAS Number: 106-23-0
- Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow clear oily liquid
- Aroma: Intense fresh green citrus + citronella grass + sweet rose notes with woody base; highly diffusive & radiant
- Solubility: Insoluble in water/glycerin; soluble in ethanol, ether, chloroform, propylene glycol, oils
- Stability: Prone to oxidation/rearrangement (to isopulegol/menthol) under light, air or alkali; store dark, sealed, cool
2. Source & Production Process
- Natural Source
- Features: 100% botanical origin, high natural optical purity, pure aroma, intact bioactivity, FEMA/GRAS compliant, Kosher/Halal eligible.
3. Main Applications
(1)Flavors & Fragrances (Primary Use)
- Personal care fragrances: Citrus, lime, rose, herbal, cologne, insect-repellent bases/top notes; for perfumes, toilet water, aromatherapy, soaps, detergents, body care (refreshing, odor-masking, luxury enhancement).
- Food flavors: Citrus, lemon, cherry, berry, spicy profiles; for soft drinks, candies, baked goods, ice creams, chewing gums (bright fruity notes, mild spiciness).
- Tobacco & industrial: Tobacco flavors (fruity notes, reduce irritation); coatings, rubber, inks (natural fragrancing, antibacterial).
(2)Natural Mosquito/Insect Repellent (High Growth)
- Repellent activity: Broad-spectrum against mosquitoes, fleas, lice, mites, aphids; superior to some synthetic repellents; natural low toxicity, mild skin irritation.
- Products: Repellent sprays, toilet water, candles, outdoor mist, pet care, grain storage pest control (eco-safe, long-lasting, gentle).
(3)Fragrance Synthesis Intermediate (High Demand)
- Key raw material: Hydroxycitronellal (premium fixative), citronellol, menthol (L-menthol), isopulegol, rose oxide; critical precursor in the global menthol supply chain.
- Pharmaceutical intermediate: Juvenile hormones, antimicrobials, sedatives.
(4)Personal Care & Cosmetics
- Hair/body care: Body washes, shampoos, soaps, toothpaste, mouthwash (fresh aroma, antibacterial/antipruritic, oil control, odor improvement).
- Skincare: Toners, serums, lotions (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, soothing, brightening).
(5)Pharmaceuticals & Wellness
- Bioactivity: Antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, sedative, hypnotic, analgesic, antispasmodic; relieves anxiety, improves sleep, soothes respiratory discomfort.
- Medicinal formulations: Topical antibacterial ointments, repellents, aromatherapy oils (refreshing, stress relief).
(6)Agriculture & Environment
- Crop protection: Natural insect-repellent & antimicrobial; for fruit/vegetable preservation, eco-pesticides, plant growth regulators (low-residue, eco-safe).
- Home mold control: Wood, textiles, leather (antibacterial/mold-inhibiting, extend service life).
4. Key Advantages
- Natural & Safe Compliance: FEMA 2307, FDA GRAS, GB2760 approved; plant-derived, low toxicity/irritation, residue-free—aligns with natural consumer trends.
- Unique Premium Aroma: Natural citrus + citronella + rose complex with depth & warmth; synthetics cannot replicate natural optical activity & aroma quality.
- Multi-Functional High Value: Combines fragrancing, repellency, antibacterial, synthesis intermediate, pharmaceutical roles—full-chain essential, cost-effective.
- Stable Supply Chain: Southeast Asia + South China large-scale cultivation; ample capacity, stable cost, leading natural purity & optical rotation.