FlavScents AInsights Entry for Cyperus Esculentus Root Oil (CAS: 223748-92-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Cyperus esculentus root oil, commonly known as tiger nut oil, is a natural complex material derived from the roots of the Cyperus esculentus plant. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for this material is 223748-92-3. As a natural complex material, it does not have a specific IUPAC name, molecular formula, or molecular weight. The oil is known for its rich composition, which can vary significantly depending on the geographical origin, harvest time, and processing methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Cyperus esculentus root oil is characterized by its earthy, nutty aroma with sweet undertones. The intensity of the odor is moderate, providing a warm, comforting scent that can enhance the depth of fragrance compositions. In flavor applications, it imparts a creamy, nutty taste that is often used to add richness and complexity. The oil serves as a background realism note in both flavor and fragrance formulations, contributing to the overall sensory experience without overpowering other components.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Cyperus esculentus, commonly known as tiger nut or chufa, is a plant native to Africa, the Mediterranean, and parts of Asia. The oil is extracted from the tubers of the plant, which are rich in nutrients and have been used traditionally in various cultures. The formation of the oil involves mechanical pressing and sometimes solvent extraction, followed by refining processes to enhance its purity and sensory qualities. Its natural origin allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" in product formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, cyperus esculentus root oil is used primarily in nutty and creamy flavor profiles. It is commonly found in bakery products, confectionery, and dairy-based items. The typical use levels in finished food products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. The oil is relatively stable under heat and neutral pH conditions, making it suitable for a variety of food processing environments. However, it may be prone to oxidation, necessitating the use of antioxidants in formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Cyperus esculentus root oil is utilized in fragrance compositions for its warm, earthy, and nutty aroma. It is often included in oriental and gourmand fragrance families, where it acts as a base note, providing depth and longevity. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance products vary from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired olfactory impact. The oil's moderate volatility allows it to contribute to the middle and base notes of a fragrance, enhancing the overall complexity and richness.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
5a. Key Constituents (Typical)
The key constituents of cyperus esculentus root oil include oleic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitic acid, which are fatty acids contributing to its sensory and functional properties. Other minor components may include tocopherols and phytosterols. The composition of the oil can vary significantly based on factors such as geographic origin, harvest time, and processing methods, which should be considered during formulation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, cyperus esculentus 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, and its use in flavors is permitted. The UK follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, the oil is accepted in countries like Japan and China, though specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries such as Brazil and members of MERCOSUR recognize its use in both flavors and fragrances, with some regional variations in regulatory requirements.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, cyperus esculentus root oil is considered safe within the typical use levels in food products, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. The oil's volatility is moderate, and inhalation exposure is not typically a concern in occupational settings. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant safety concerns reported.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Cyperus esculentus root oil is valued for its ability to impart a rich, nutty character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other creamy and nutty notes, enhancing the overall sensory profile. Formulators should be aware of its potential for oxidation and consider using antioxidants to maintain stability. The oil is often under-utilized in fragrance applications, where its unique aroma can add depth and complexity.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on cyperus esculentus root oil is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory properties and typical applications. However, there are some gaps in specific regulatory details across different regions, and formulators should verify compliance with local regulations. Industry practices are generally consistent, though documentation on specific use levels and safety assessments may be limited.
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 2026-05-18 10:43:05 GMT (p2)