Clove Leaf Oil: Physical Properties, Chemical Structure, and Key Material Insights

What Is Clove Leaf Oil?

Clove leaf oil comes from the leaves of the Syzygium aromaticum tree and shows up as a clear to pale yellow liquid. This oil carries a sharp, spicy aroma, which comes straight from the chemical compound eugenol. The oil finds its place in everything from flavorings and fragrances to natural health remedies and cleaning products. Its distinctive nature gives it a special value in both household and industrial uses. Many people working with essential oils notice its straightforward, strong smell and its ability to mask other odors. Knowing where an oil comes from and understanding its character creates trust in those who buy and use it.

Chemical Structure and Formula

The main component in clove leaf oil is eugenol, with a molecular formula of C₁₀H₁₂O₂. This molecule contains both an aromatic ring and an allyl chain, providing the chemical backbone that brings the sharp scent and biological effects. Chemists focus on the eugenol content, typically over 80%, since this determines both the market value and the practical uses. Under normal conditions, the oil remains stable, and its refractive index measures around 1.528 to 1.538. These features help guarantee quality and purity for buyers looking for authentic clove oil.

Specifications: Density, State, and Appearance

Clove leaf oil appears as a free-flowing liquid at room temperature, with a specific gravity between 1.035 and 1.057. The density, measured at 20°C, often ranges between 1.030 g/cm³ and 1.070 g/cm³. This measurement matters to anyone shipping or handling large quantities, as weight and flow rate factor into cost and operation. Unlike many essential oils that crystalize or turn solid at lower temperatures, clove leaf oil rarely forms flakes, pearls, or powder. Users encounter it as a neat liquid, easy to measure, pour, and store. This makes the oil simple to incorporate into blends or direct applications where physical consistency matters.

Standardization, HS Code, and Raw Material Transparency

In international trade, the Harmonized System (HS) Code helps to identify the oil. Clove leaf oil often falls under HS Code 3301.29, categorized among essential oils. Accurate labeling and traceability matter, not just for business efficiency but also for legal compliance in export and import operations. The raw material—clove leaves—must be sourced from healthy, properly cultivated trees. Providers serious about quality perform regular botanical and chemical checks, focusing on both purity and authenticity. Reliable supply chains, from field to bottle, build long-term confidence for customers in cosmetic, food, and pharma sectors.

Properties: Safe Handling, Hazard Analysis, and Chemical Risks

Direct contact may irritate skin or eyes, so gloves and eye protection serve as a baseline when handling larger volumes. Pure eugenol in the oil can act as a skin sensitizer, which means that frequent or careless exposure might cause allergies. Inhaled vapors in high concentration have noticeable effects, including respiratory discomfort. Those who work in essential oil distillation or product formulation need good ventilation and proper training in spill management. The oil’s flash point is about 93°C, so heat sources and open flames require control. From what I've seen in natural product labs, even small lapses in storage or transfer can cause slippery floors or health complaints. Many suppliers provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) so that end users stay informed about risks and precautions.

Solutions for Safe, Responsible Use

Consistent education around handling and labeling helps both small businesses and large factories. Basic steps, like clear labeling and using the right tools to handle the oil, make a big difference. When mixing this oil into creams or cleaning supplies, blending in a properly ventilated room makes accidents much less likely. Proper disposal of wipes and rags that touched the oil prevents unexpected fire risk or environmental harm. Producers with track records of transparency around production methods—and who offer certificate of analysis—stand out. This builds reputation and keeps hazardous or counterfeit versions out of the market. For those new to clove leaf oil, starting with diluted forms and learning storage tips straight from chemical suppliers can prevent most headaches.

Material Role Across Markets

Manufacturers count on clove leaf oil’s strong aroma to add punch to dental rinses, soaps, and balms. The eugenol content not only shapes the smell but also acts as a natural antibacterial, so its draw goes far beyond simple fragrance. Food processors sometimes use minuscule amounts to flavor pickled foods and meats. In the perfume world, the spicy warmth creates distinctive base notes. Every application depends on the right density, clarity, and measured chemical profile. End users look for suppliers with established safety systems and full transparency about sourcing and testing. Enthusiasts exploring essential oils at home see it as a versatile addition—so long as they respect its power and handle it safely, this natural oil can deliver real benefits without unwanted surprises.