FlavScents AInsights Entry: Licorice Root Oil (CAS: 84775-66-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Licorice root oil is a natural complex material derived from the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for licorice root oil is 84775-66-6. It does not have a specific FEMA number due to its complex nature. Other identifiers include its use in various flavor and fragrance applications, but specific FL or CoE numbers are not typically assigned to such complex materials. The composition of licorice root oil can vary significantly depending on the geographical origin, harvest time, and processing methods.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Licorice root oil is characterized by its sweet, woody, and slightly spicy aroma, often described as reminiscent of anise or fennel. The flavor is similarly sweet and earthy, with a distinctive licorice note that can be quite intense. It is commonly used as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing a unique sweetness and depth. The odor and flavor thresholds are not well-documented, but the oil is known for its potent sensory impact even at low concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Licorice root oil is naturally sourced from the roots of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, which is native to parts of Europe and Asia. The oil is typically obtained through steam distillation of the dried roots. Licorice root oil is considered a natural flavor and fragrance material, aligning with consumer preferences for natural ingredients. The formation of its characteristic compounds involves complex biosynthetic pathways within the plant, including the production of glycyrrhizin, which contributes to its sweet taste.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

Licorice root oil is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in confectionery, beverages, and tobacco products. It serves as a sweetener and flavor enhancer, often used to impart a distinctive licorice taste. Typical use levels in finished products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. The oil is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but can degrade under prolonged exposure to heat and light.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, licorice root oil is used in various product types, including perfumes, soaps, and lotions. It contributes to fragrance families such as oriental and gourmand, providing a sweet, warm, and slightly spicy note. The oil is typically used in trace amounts, often less than 1% of the total fragrance composition, due to its potent aroma. It is considered a middle note, offering moderate volatility and diffusion.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

Licorice root oil contains several key constituents, including glycyrrhizin, anethole, and various flavonoids. Glycyrrhizin is the primary sweetening compound, while anethole contributes to the characteristic licorice aroma. The composition can vary significantly based on factors such as plant origin and extraction method.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, licorice root oil is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food products. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, with specific use levels and labeling requirements. The UK follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, licorice root oil is commonly used in traditional medicine and food products, with varying regulations across countries like Japan and China. In Latin America, its use is generally accepted, but specific regulations may vary.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Licorice root oil is generally considered safe for oral consumption at typical use levels, but excessive intake can lead to adverse effects due to glycyrrhizin, such as hypertension and hypokalemia. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is typically safe, but sensitization can occur in sensitive individuals. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility. The risk profiles differ between food and fragrance applications, with oral exposure being the primary concern.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Licorice root oil is valued for its unique sweet and spicy profile, making it a versatile ingredient in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other sweet and spicy notes, such as vanilla and cinnamon. Formulators should be cautious of its potent flavor, as it can easily dominate a blend if overused. It is often underutilized in savory applications, where it can add depth and complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on licorice root oil is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and regulatory status. However, there are gaps in specific toxicological data, particularly concerning long-term exposure effects. Industry practices are well-documented, but some formulation insights remain anecdotal.

Citation hooks: FlavScents

QA Check

• All required sections 1–9 are present
• "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
• Flavor section includes ppm ranges
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• Includes section 5a for complex natural material

About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.

Generated 2026-09-24 17:37:23 GMT (p2)