
General Description
Nutmeg Oil is a natural essential oil extracted from the dried seeds (kernels) of the nutmeg tree (Myristica fragrans), primarily through steam distillation. It is characterized by a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet aroma. In the cosmetic and personal care industry, Nutmeg Oil is valued for its aromatic, stimulating, and skin-conditioning properties. Rich in naturally occurring compounds such as sabinene, myristicin, and terpenes, Nutmeg Oil is commonly used to enhance sensory appeal while offering functional benefits in topical formulations.
Uses in the Cosmetic Industry
Nutmeg Oil is used in a range of cosmetic and personal care products, including:
- Massage Oils & Balms: Provides a warming sensation and is often used in relaxing or muscle-soothing formulations.
- Fragrances & Perfumes: Adds a spicy, exotic note to fragrance compositions.
- Creams & Lotions: Used in small amounts for its aromatic and skin-conditioning effects.
- Soaps & Body Washes: Enhances fragrance profiles and provides a refreshing sensory experience.
- Hair Care Products: Occasionally used in scalp treatments for its stimulating properties.
Due to its strong aroma and multifunctional nature, Nutmeg Oil is typically used at low concentrations and is often combined with other essential oils or fragrance components.
Hazards
While Nutmeg Oil is a natural ingredient, it should be used with care in cosmetic formulations:
- Skin Irritation: May cause irritation or sensitization, especially when used undiluted or at high concentrations.
- Allergic Reactions: Individuals with sensitive skin may experience allergic responses; patch testing is recommended.
- Phototoxicity: Generally low, but caution is advised in leave-on products.
- Toxicity at High Doses: Nutmeg Oil contains compounds (e.g., myristicin) that may be toxic if overused; cosmetic use must comply with IFRA and regulatory limits.
- Eye Irritation: Direct contact with eyes can cause significant discomfort and should be avoided
Storage & Stability
- Storage: Store in tightly sealed, amber-colored containers in a cool, dry place away from light and heat.
- Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions but may oxidize over time; antioxidants can be used to extend shelf life.
Nutmeg Oil is widely used in cosmetic and personal care formulations for its distinctive aroma and warming sensory effects, provided it is used responsibly within recommended safety guidelines.
CAS Number: 8008-45-5
INCI: Myristica Fragrans (Nutmeg) Kernel Oil
Composition:Nutmeg Oil is a natural essential oil obtained from the kernels (seeds) of Myristica fragrans. It contains a complex mixture of volatile compounds, primarily sabinene, myristicin, α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene, and terpinen-4-ol, which contribute to its aromatic, antimicrobial, and warming properties.
Purity Grade: Cosmetic / Aromatherapy Grade
Appearance: Clear to pale yellow or light amber liquid with a characteristic warm, spicy aroma
Solubility:Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohol, oils, and organic solvents
Preservation:Self-preserving due to natural antimicrobial constituents; no added preservatives required
Storage:Store in a tightly closed, light-resistant container in a cool, dry place away from heat, air, and direct sunlight to prevent oxidation
Raw Material Sources:Derived from the dried kernels (seeds) of Myristica fragrans, sourced primarily from Indonesia, India, and the Caribbean
Manufacture:Produced by steam distillation of crushed nutmeg kernels, followed by filtration and quality control to ensure purity and consistency
Animal Testing: Not animal tested
GMO: GMO-free (botanical origin, non-genetically modified)
Vegan: Does not contain animal-derived components
Proposition:Nutmeg Oil complies with international cosmetic and fragrance regulations, including IFRA guidelines and applicable EU Cosmetic Regulation requirements when used within recommended limits
Warning:For external use only. Concentrated essential oil—must be diluted before topical application. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. May cause skin sensitization in sensitive individuals. Not recommended for use during pregnancy or in high concentrations. Conduct a patch test prior to use.
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Nutmeg Oil? What is its CAS Number and INCI Name?
Nutmeg Oil is a volatile essential oil extracted from the dried kernels of the Myristica fragrans tree, known for its warm, spicy-woody aroma. In personal care formulations, it can add fragrance and functional benefits.
- CAS Number: 8008-45-5 (commonly used) and sometimes 84082-68-8 depending on nomenclature sources.
- INCI Name: Myristica Fragrans (Nutmeg) Oil (sometimes listed as Myristica Fragrans Fruit Oil)
2. How is Nutmeg Oil extracted?
Nutmeg Oil is typically obtained by steam distillation of the dried seed kernels of the nutmeg tree (Myristica fragrans), yielding a clear to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic spicy, woody scent
3. What are the benefits of Nutmeg Oil in personal care products?
Nutmeg Oil contributes several properties useful for cosmetics and skincare:
- Fragrance & aroma — warm, spicy, and stimulating scent great for perfumes, soaps, and grooming products.
- Anti-inflammatory & soothing action — helps calm skin irritation when appropriately formulated.
- Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties — may support skin health and help protect against free-radical damage
- Scalp & hair support — can be incorporated into hair care products for aroma and potential scalp benefits.
4. In which personal care products is Nutmeg Oil commonly used?
Nutmeg Oil can be found in:
- Fragrances, colognes, and body sprays
- Soaps & shower gels
- Creams and lotions
- Hair care and scalp treatments
- Massage oils and aromatherapy blends
Its spicy scent makes it versatile in both male and unisex grooming products.
5) Typical technical specifications (what formulators usually expect)
Representative specs for a light mineral oil grade like NanoEmo LH-100: clear, colorless liquid; specific gravity ~0.82–0.85; kinematic viscosity typically in the low cSt range (grade dependent); very low aromatic content (highly refined), high purity suitable for cosmetics (USP/BP or cosmetic grades available). Exact values will be provided on the Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each batch.