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Indole
Indole is a nitrogen-containing heterocyclic aromatic compound, originally discovered in indigo dye, and naturally found in various plants (such as jasmine and orange blossom) and animal secretions. In the fragrance and flavor industry, indole holds an important position due to its unique aroma: at low concentrations, it can present a rich floral scent, particularly close to the fragrance of jasmine; while at high concentrations, it has a strong fecal and animalistic odor.
Type
Floral
The “true floral soul” in jasmine, orange blossom, and tuberose.
Acquisition Methods
Natural extraction or chemical synthesis
It is found in natural essential oils such as jasmine, orange blossom, gardenia, and tuberose, and can also be prepared through organic synthesis methods such as Fischer indole synthesis.
Basic Information
| English Name | Indole |
| Common Industry Names | Jasmine Indole, Flower Indole |
| Chemical Category | Nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compound |
| Molecular Formula | C8H7N |
| Molecular Weight | 117.15 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 120-72-9 |
| Appearance | White to pale yellow crystals or powder with a characteristic odor |
Technical Data
| Boiling Point | 253°C |
| Melting Point | 52°C |
| Flash Point | 170°C |
| Refractive Index (20°C) | Undefined (solid) |
| Density (20°C) | 1.22 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Slightly soluble in water, soluble in alcohols, ethers, and most organic solvents |
| Stability | Relatively stable at room temperature; avoid high temperatures and exposure to light. |
Chemical Structure
C8H7N
Fragrance Characteristics
| Aroma Characteristics | At low concentrations, it emits a sweet, floral aroma (especially jasmine); at high concentrations, it exhibits animalistic, fecal-like characteristics. |
| Fragrance Family Position | Middle to Base Notes |
| Common Pairings | Pairs with floral ingredients such as jasmine, orange blossom, rose, tuberose, and gardenia to enhance the realism of natural floral scents. |
| Applications | Widely used in high-end perfumes, floral fragrances, cosmetics, and in small quantities in certain food flavorings. |
Safety and Compliance
| IFRA Guidelines | Indole use is subject to IFRA standards and must not be exceeded. |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions, but should be stored away from light and high temperatures. |
| Allergy Risk | Relatively safe when used in appropriate amounts, but high concentrations may cause irritation or discomfort. |
Application Highlights
- Floral Authenticity Enhancer: Gives jasmine, orange blossom, and other floral notes a more authentic and natural feel.
- Fragrance Layering Enhancement: Enriches the layers and depth of a fragrance when used at very low concentrations.
- Key Ingredient in Small Doses: Significantly improves the overall aroma characteristics of a fragrance even in very small amounts.
- Identical Molecule of Luxurious Floral Fragrances: An indispensable core ingredient in many classic floral fragrances.