Labor am Meer
Labdanum Absolute 20% in TEC (Cistus ladaniferus) – Natural Amber
Labdanum Absolute 20% in TEC (Cistus ladaniferus) – Natural Amber
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Labdanum Absolute 20% in TEC (Cistus ladaniferus)
Labdanum is the resin of the rockrose (Cistus ladaniferus) – warm, leathery and balsamic, with the animalic, ambered depth that defines classic orientals, chypres and leather accords. We supply it as a 20% solution in TEC (triethyl citrate): the pure absolute is dark and thick and hard to dose accurately – diluted, it goes in easily. Also known as ladanum or rockrose.
More on history, chemistry and use in our Labdanum reference.
Odor character
- Warm, resinous, balsamic
- Leathery-animalic, reminiscent of ambergris
- Honey and dried fruit (plum, raisin)
- Smoky, incense-like finish
Role in the formula
Labdanum is the natural base of ambered and oriental accords and also acts as a fixative. Alongside synthetic amber materials such as Ambrofix™ or Ambermor® it adds the resinous-leathery side they lack. Historically it is the heart of the classic “ambre” accord.
Use
For orientals, chypres, leather, fougère and tobacco notes. Labdanum is powerful and IFRA-regulated and is used at low levels – the 20% dilution makes that easier. Typically fractions of a percent up to a few percent in the concentrate.
Practical note: dissolving, storing, combining
Dissolving: pre-dissolved in TEC, readily miscible with ethanol and common solvents.
Storing: 10–30 °C, dark and tightly closed. As a natural product, slight batch differences are normal.
Combining: with Ambroxan materials (Ambrofix™, Ambermor®), Oxyoctaline Formate, Cetalor and Patchoulol.
Safety information
Labdanum is a sensitizer and IFRA-regulated – please check the current IFRA amendment for your category. Wear protective gloves, avoid skin and eye contact.
Physico-Chemical Properties
| Origin | Natural (Cistus ladaniferus, rockrose) |
| Material type | Absolute, 20% in TEC (triethyl citrate) |
| CAS no. (labdanum) | 89997-74-0 |
| EC no. | 289-711-7 |
| Appearance | Brown liquid |
| Density | ~1.1 g/cm³ |
| Flash point | >100 °C (non-flammable) |
| Diluent | Triethyl citrate (TEC) |
| Concentration | 20% |
FAQ
What is labdanum?
The resin of the rockrose (Cistus ladaniferus), a Mediterranean shrub – the historical source of the amber note in perfumery.
Why 20% in TEC instead of neat?
Neat, labdanum is dark, thick and hard to dose. Dissolved in TEC it incorporates accurately and easily.
Is it the same as ambergris?
No. Labdanum is plant-based, ambergris is animal-derived – but in compositions labdanum plays a similar role.
Natural or synthetic?
Natural.
Any IFRA restrictions?
Yes, labdanum is regulated. Please observe the current IFRA amendment.
Hazard Information (CLP Labelling)
Signal word: Danger
Hazard statements (H):
H304 – May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways.
H317 – May cause an allergic skin reaction.
H411 – Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects.
Precautionary statements (P):
P261 – Avoid breathing vapour/spray.
P273 – Avoid release to the environment.
P280 – Wear protective gloves and eye protection.
P301+P310 – IF SWALLOWED: Immediately call a POISON CENTER/doctor.
P331 – Do NOT induce vomiting.
P302+P352 – IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
P333+P313 – If skin irritation or rash occurs: Get medical advice/attention.
P391 – Collect spillage.
P501 – Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
Mixture: Labdanum Absolute 20% in TEC (contains Cistus ladaniferus, ext., CAS 89997-74-0). The relevant CLP hazard-labelling elements pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP), as amended, are reproduced here in full. The legally binding labelling appears on the packaging.
Important note
This product is a perfumery raw material intended exclusively for fragrance development, creative experimentation, education and the study of perfumery materials. It is not a finished cosmetic product. Please use responsibly.
