Natural Fragrance refers to a blend of aromatic compounds derived entirely from natural sources, including plants, fruits, flowers, and other botanical materials. Crafted according to ISO 9235 standards, these fragrances are meticulously formulated to ensure they contain only ingredients obtained from natural origins, without any synthetics or chemically altered substances. This makes them an ideal choice for eco-friendly and natural cleaning products.
Table of Contents
- What Is Natural Fragrance?
- What Are ISO 9235 Standards?
- Common Sources of Natural Fragrance
- Is Natural Fragrance Safe?
- Formulation Guidelines
- Natural vs. Synthetic Fragrance
- Environmental Impact
- References
What Is Natural Fragrance?
Natural Fragrance is a term used to describe complex aromatic blends that are exclusively derived from natural sources such as essential oils, extracts, and distillates. These fragrances contain no synthetic components, petrochemicals, or chemically modified ingredients. They are often used in natural cleaning products to impart a pleasant scent while aligning with green formulation principles.
What Are ISO 9235 Standards?
The ISO 9235 standard outlines the criteria for defining natural aromatic raw materials. According to this standard, a natural fragrance must be:
- 100% derived from natural sources
- Produced using physical processes such as extraction, distillation, or expression
- Free from synthetic chemicals or chemically altered ingredients
This certification ensures that natural fragrances maintain their integrity and purity, making them suitable for eco-friendly cleaning products.
Common Sources of Natural Fragrance
- Essential Oils: Lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, citrus
- Extracts: Vanilla, almond, rose
- Hydrosols: Rose water, orange blossom water
- Resins: Frankincense, myrrh
These ingredients are obtained through methods such as cold pressing, steam distillation, and maceration.
Is Natural Fragrance Safe?
Yes, natural fragrances are generally safe when used appropriately. Unlike synthetic fragrances, they do not contain phthalates, parabens, or petrochemicals. However, some essential oils can be irritating or sensitizing, especially in high concentrations. Always use natural fragrance ingredients within recommended usage rates and conduct patch tests when necessary.
Formulation Guidelines
- Usage rate: Typically 0.5% - 2% depending on the product type and intended strength.
- Blend with carrier oils or solubilizers to ensure proper dispersion in water-based cleaners.
- Store in amber glass containers to protect from light and oxidation.
Natural vs. Synthetic Fragrance
| Feature | Natural Fragrance | Synthetic Fragrance |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Natural (plants, flowers) | Petrochemicals, lab-created compounds |
| Aromatherapeutic Benefits | Yes | No |
| Allergen Risk | Low to moderate | High (due to phthalates and synthetic additives) |
| Eco-Friendliness | High | Low |
Environmental Impact
Natural fragrances, especially those certified under ISO 9235, are derived from renewable resources and are biodegradable. This makes them significantly more environmentally friendly compared to synthetic fragrances, which can contain non-biodegradable petrochemicals. Additionally, using natural fragrances supports sustainable agriculture and ethical sourcing practices.
