FlavScents AInsights Entry for (-)-terpinen-4-ol (CAS: 20126-76-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Terpinen-4-ol
• IUPAC Name: 4-methyl-1-propan-2-ylcyclohex-3-en-1-ol
• CAS Number: 20126-76-5
• FEMA Number: 3042
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.062
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O
• Molecular Weight: 154.25 g/mol

Terpinen-4-ol is a monoterpene alcohol characterized by a cyclohexene ring with an isopropyl group and a hydroxyl group. Its structure contributes to its moderate volatility and distinct odor profile, making it relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Terpinen-4-ol is known for its fresh, woody, and slightly medicinal aroma, often described as reminiscent of tea tree oil. It has a moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable as a background note or modifier in formulations. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart noticeable effects even at low concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Terpinen-4-ol is naturally found in a variety of essential oils, including tea tree oil, marjoram, and juniper. It is typically formed through the enzymatic degradation of terpenes in plants. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Terpinen-4-ol is utilized in flavor formulations for its ability to enhance herbal, spicy, and citrus profiles. It is commonly used in savory applications, such as soups and sauces, as well as in beverages. Typical use levels range from 0.5 to 10 ppm in finished products, with stability considerations including moderate resistance to heat and oxidation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, terpinen-4-ol is valued for its ability to add freshness and complexity to woody and herbal compositions. It is used in personal care products, household cleaners, and air fresheners. Concentration ranges typically vary from trace amounts to 1% depending on the desired effect, contributing primarily to the middle notes due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 02.062.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific guidelines in ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, terpinen-4-ol is considered safe within the established ADI and MSDI limits. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Terpinen-4-ol is prized for its versatility and ability to blend well with other terpenes and alcohols. It synergizes effectively with citrus and herbal notes but can be overpowering if overused. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate delicate compositions and adjust concentrations accordingly.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on terpinen-4-ol is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are generally documented, some variability in natural sources may lead to minor compositional differences.

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

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 2026-04-02 09:23:16 GMT (p2)