GERANIUM OIL Property

Boiling point:

250-258 °C(lit.)

Density 

1.044 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.)

FEMA 

2901 | PIMENTA LEAF OIL

refractive index 

n20/D 1.5335(lit.)

Flash point:

229 °F

Odor

floral

Odor Type

floral

EPA Substance Registry System

Oils, pimenta(8016-45-3)

Safety

Hazard Codes 

Xi

Risk Statements 

38

Safety Statements 

36

WGK Germany 

2

RTECS 

LY4055000

F 

8

Toxicity

The acute oral LD₅₀ value in rats was reported as 3.6 ml/kg (2.9-4.5 ml/ kg) (Shelanski, 1972). The acute dermal LD₅₀ value in rabbits was reported as 2.82 ml/kg (1.97-4.06 ml/kg) (Shelanski, 1972).

Hazard and Precautionary Statements (GHS)

GERANIUM OIL Chemical Properties,Usage,Production

Chemical Properties

Obtained by steam distillation of the leaves. The oil has a spicy odor. Two fractions, heavier and lighter than water fractions, are formed during distillation, with a milky emulsion at the interface. The two fractions are combined at the end of the distillation. Also see Pimenta (Allspice).

Physical properties

The oil is a pale-yellow to light brownish-yellow liquid. In contact with iron, it can acquire a blue shade turning to dark-brown upon long contact. The oil is soluble in propylene glycol and most fixed oils (with opalescence). It is relatively insoluble in mineral oil and glycerin.

Occurrence

Found in the leaves of the shrub Pimenta officinalis Lindl. (Fam. Myrtaceae).

Preparation

By steam distillation of the leaves of Pimenta officinalis Lindl.

Essential oil composition

Main constituents include eugenol (approximately 70%), caryophyllene, acids and aldehydes.

Safety Profile

Moderately toxic by ingestion. A severe skin irritant. When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes. See also EUGENOL.