AInsights Entry for Gamma-Muurolene (CAS: 30021-74-0)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Gamma-muurolene is a sesquiterpene hydrocarbon commonly found in various essential oils. Its IUPAC name is (4aR,5S,8aS)-5,8a-dimethyl-4-methylene-decahydro-naphthalene. The CAS number for gamma-muurolene is 30021-74-0. While it does not have a FEMA number, it is recognized in various chemical databases. The molecular formula is C15H24, with a molecular weight of 204.35 g/mol. Structurally, gamma-muurolene features a bicyclic framework with a methylene group, contributing to its distinct odor profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Gamma-muurolene is characterized by a woody, earthy aroma with subtle spicy undertones. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and a persistent diffusion. While specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, gamma-muurolene typically serves as a background realism note in fragrance compositions, enhancing the complexity and depth of woody accords.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Gamma-muurolene is naturally present in a variety of essential oils, including those derived from cedarwood, patchouli, and vetiver. It is biosynthesized in plants via the mevalonate pathway, a common route for terpenoid formation. Its presence in essential oils contributes to their designation as "natural fragrances" or "natural flavors," depending on the context of use.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, gamma-muurolene is used to impart woody and earthy notes, often in conjunction with other terpenes to create complex flavor profiles. It is typically employed in savory applications, such as in meat analogs or spice blends. Use levels in finished products are generally low, often ranging from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the matrix of the food product. Gamma-muurolene is relatively stable under typical processing conditions, though it may be susceptible to oxidation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Gamma-muurolene is a valuable component in fragrance formulations, particularly within the woody and chypre families. It acts as a modifier, enhancing the authenticity and depth of the fragrance. Typical concentrations in perfumes range from trace amounts to about 0.5%, depending on the desired effect. Its volatility places it primarily in the middle to base notes, contributing to the longevity of the fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, gamma-muurolene is not explicitly listed as a GRAS substance by FEMA, but it is used under the assumption of safety based on its natural occurrence. In the European Union, it is regulated under the broader framework of flavoring substances (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008), though specific FL numbers are not assigned. Post-Brexit, the UK follows similar guidelines. In Asia, regulatory specifics vary, with Japan and China generally aligning with international standards. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and members of MERCOSUR follow regional guidelines that often mirror those of the EU.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Gamma-muurolene's safety profile is primarily informed by its natural occurrence and historical use. For oral exposure, specific ADI or MSDI values are not established, but it is considered safe at typical flavor use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally well-tolerated, with no significant reports of irritation or sensitization, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is considered low risk due to its moderate volatility and typical use concentrations. 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
Gamma-muurolene is prized for its ability to enhance woody and earthy notes in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other terpenes and can be used to add complexity to formulations. A common pitfall is overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or unbalanced profile. It is often underutilized in formulations seeking a subtle, natural woody character.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on gamma-muurolene is well-established in terms of its sensory characteristics and natural occurrence. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data are less documented, relying on industry-typical practices and historical use. Known data gaps include precise odor thresholds and detailed regulatory listings in some regions.
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
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)
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 2026-09-26 13:15:07 GMT (p2)