Ingredient Guide
Eugenol is the main constituent of clove (80%–90%), with a cool, spicy, pungent aroma. It was first synthesized by Carl Jacob Ettling in 1834. Vanillin can actually be synthesized from eugenol; when made this way, it is called eugenol vanillin or clove vanillin.
It also occurs in bay, cinnamon leaves, patchouli, and pimento berry. It is also used to create the scent of carnation.
How Does It Smell in Perfume?
Eugenol is a single compound with a powerful, clove-like spicy aroma. It occurs in natural materials such as clove essential oil, and when added to perfume it creates a warm, spicy core with sweetness within its sharpness. Whereas natural clove essential oil consists of many components, eugenol on its own expresses that characteristic scent distinctly. It is a different substance from the similarly named isoeugenol and methyl eugenol. Under IFRA Standards, eugenol is subject to use restrictions that vary by product category.
Choosing Eugenol Fragrances
Do you enjoy clove’s pungency on its own, or alongside floral sweetness? Fragrances depicting clove or carnation can be a starting point for an interest in eugenol. White flowers or rose add floral fullness and warmth. The word Eugenol on an ingredient list alone does not mean a fragrance will smell strongly of clove.
Find Your Next Fragrance
To explore more fragrances through the notes you enjoy, open our Fragrance Finder. Choose “Favorite fragrances & notes”, then search under “Favorite notes”. Select from the suggestions shown and press “Next”. You can start with notes even if you do not have a favorite fragrance.
