Compounds · Esters · Terpenoid pathway
Linalyl acetate
Also known as Bergamol · Linalyl ethanoate — an analysis may use any of these names
Sweet like pear, soft, rounding off the floral part. This is the compound that makes lavender sound gentle rather than harsh.
- CAS
- 115-95-7
- Formula
- C12H20O2
- Molar mass
- 196.29
- Odour threshold
- —
- Boiling point
- ≈ 220 °C at atmospheric pressure
Must be declared on the label
This compound was added by Regulation (EU) 2023/1545 to the list of allergens that must be declared individually on cosmetic labels in the European Union. Name to use on the label: LINALYL ACETATE.
The declaration threshold is 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products. This is an EU requirement — see the regulations page for why it matters beyond the EU. This is not legal advice.
Where it comes from
Biosynthetic pathway: Terpenoid pathway — plants build them from identical five-carbon blocks.
Why it sits where it does
The ester group is heavier than the corresponding alcohol group, so it boils about twenty degrees higher than linalool and sits after linalool on the band.
Where else you meet it
Lavender, bergamot, clary sage. The ratio of linalyl acetate to linalool is the standard quality index for lavender.