What Is Cis-3-Hexenol Nat?
Cis-3-Hexenol Nat is a naturally occurring aroma chemical first isolated and identified around 1920 during early research into the molecules released by damaged plant leaves. Today it is produced at industrial scale through white biotechnology, where select micro-organisms ferment renewable plant-derived raw materials. This modern process keeps the ingredient classified as natural while offering reliable quality and supply.
At room temperature the material presents as a clear, mobile liquid that blends easily with most fragrance solvents. Because the fermentation route is efficient, the ingredient is generally considered affordable compared with many other naturals obtained by traditional extraction. Its cost effectiveness, coupled with its unmistakable freshness, has made the molecule one of the most frequently used building blocks in perfumery and flavor creation.
Formulators value Cis-3-Hexenol Nat for its versatility. It fits comfortably in fine fragrance as well as functional products like detergents, fabric softeners and candles. Thanks to its good stability across a wide pH range it remains effective even in challenging bases such as bar soap or shampoo.
What Does Cis-3-Hexenol Nat Smell Like?
Most perfumers place Cis-3-Hexenol Nat in the green family. Off a blotter it releases an immediately recognizable burst of freshly cut grass accompanied by the crisp snap of crushed leaves. Behind that vivid lawn impression sits a gentle hint of cucumber peel and a subtle, slightly sweet note similar to young pea shoots that keeps the overall effect natural rather than artificially bright.
This material behaves like a classic top note. It flashes off quickly, creating an energetic opening that grabs attention before mellowing within the first hour. Although its initial diffusion is strong, the molecule does not cling to skin for long; expect its main impact to last around two hours, after which it slips into the background. Skilled perfumers often layer it over longer lasting green or floral accords so the vibrant first impression transitions smoothly into the heart of the composition.
How & Where To Use Cis-3-Hexenol Nat
This is one of those materials that makes a perfumer smile the moment the cap comes off. It is easy to weigh, dissolves without fuss in alcohol or dipropylene glycol and behaves predictably during compounding. In short it is a nice, cooperative ally in the lab.
Creators reach for Cis-3-Hexenol Nat whenever a composition needs a quick splash of authentic green freshness. It can stand alone as the dominant top note in a “freshly cut grass” accord or act as the spark that brightens leafy florals, watery cucumbers, dewy rose or even green tea themes. Because the molecule appears in many real plants it meshes seamlessly with natural essential oils such as basil, galbanum or petitgrain, helping them smell more realistic and lively.
Typical inclusion levels sit anywhere from a barely-there trace up to about 5 % of the total concentrate. At very low dosages it gives a subtle crunch that whispers rather than shouts. Between 0.5 % and 2 % the material becomes clearly noticeable, adding lift without overwhelming surrounding notes. Push it beyond 3 % and the grass effect dominates, which can be terrific in sporty fine fragrances or functional products that aim for a bright clean vibe. Above 5 % the note risks smelling harsh or metallic, so most perfumers stop short of that point.
Its stability makes it suitable for nearly every application: eau de toilette, shampoo, bar soap, detergent, fabric softener or a wax candle. In high-temperature processes like soap saponification it holds up well but some of the freshness still flashes off, so formulators usually boost the dosage slightly to compensate. It performs less impressively in very heavy oriental or gourmand bases where its sharp green quality can feel out of place, though a deft hand may still use a trace for contrast.
No special prep work is required beyond the usual practice of diluting to 10 % in alcohol for evaluation. Store the neat material in a tight-sealed amber bottle and it should keep its punchy character for years.
Safely Information
Working with any aroma chemical calls for a few basic precautions to keep you and those around you safe.
- Always dilute before smelling: Prepare a 10 % or lower solution in a suitable solvent and smell from a blotter rather than the neat bottle.
- Avoid direct inhalation: Handle the material in a well-ventilated space or under a fume hood to prevent breathing concentrated vapors.
- Protect skin and eyes: Wear disposable gloves and safety glasses. If contact occurs rinse thoroughly with water.
- Health considerations: Some aroma chemicals can trigger irritation or allergies. Consult a doctor before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Brief exposure to low levels is generally safe but extended or high-level exposure can be harmful.
For complete peace of mind always refer to the most recent safety data sheet supplied with your batch and review it regularly as the information can change. Follow any applicable IFRA guidelines for maximum usage levels to ensure your formulations remain both beautiful and safe.
Storage And Disposal
When stored correctly in a sealed container Cis-3-Hexenol Nat typically keeps its fresh character for two to three years before any noticeable drop in quality. Some perfumers get even longer if the bottle stays unopened and cool.
Refrigeration is helpful but not vital. A shelf in a cool dark cupboard away from direct sun and hot radiators works for most home or studio setups. Light and heat speed up oxidation so limiting both preserves that crisp grass note.
For dilutions choose bottles fitted with a polycone cap as these liners give a tight seal that stops air creeping in. Skip dropper tops because they often leak or let oxygen slip past the threads. Whenever possible decant into a smaller bottle once the fill level drops below half to cut the headspace and slow oxidative off notes.
Always label every container clearly with the ingredient name concentration date of dilution and any hazard statements from the safety data sheet. A quick glance should tell anyone what is inside and how to handle it.
Cis-3-Hexenol Nat is readily biodegradable yet you should still dispose of unused material through a chemical waste program if available. Small traces on blotters or glassware can be rinsed away with plenty of water and standard detergent. Never pour large quantities straight into the drain or trash without checking local regulations.
Summary
Cis-3-Hexenol Nat is a naturally sourced green aroma chemical that smells exactly like a lawn mower just passed by. It lifts top notes adds crunch to florals and builds realistic leafy accords in everything from fine fragrance to fabric softener. The material is affordable stable in most bases and simply fun to play with though its sharp freshness can turn harsh if overdosed and it does fade fast.
No wonder it shows up in countless formulas worldwide. Keep it cool dilute with care and this little bottle of cut grass will keep inspiring bright openers and sporty cleansers for years to come.