Methyl eugenol dosage

Methyleugenol is a natural aromatic compound belonging to the phenylpropanoid , frequently found in essential oils and extracts of aromatic plants such as basil (Ocimum basilicum), lemongrass, cinnamon, and bay leaf. Used for its pleasant olfactory properties it is an ingredient in many perfumes, flavorings, and cosmetic products .

However, due to its genotoxic and carcinogenic potential , methyleugenol is strictly regulated by European legislation , particularly in cosmetic and food products. Therefore, its laboratory analysis is essential to ensure the safe use and regulatory compliance of products containing it.

Analytical methods for the determination of methyleugenol

At YesWeLab, methyleugenol analysis relies on high-precision chromatographic techniques , allowing the detection and quantification of the molecule in various matrices:

• GC-FID (Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detection) : reference method for rapid and reliable quantification in essential oils and volatile formulations.
• GC-MS (Gas Chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) : a more specific technique, allowing the identification of methyleugenol even in trace amounts in complex matrices such as cosmetics, flavors or multi-component natural products.

These analyses are carried out in accordance with international standards (ISO, AFNOR) and IFRA (International Fragrance Association) recommendations .

European regulatory framework

Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products strictly regulates the use of methyleugenol. It is listed in Annex III of the regulation, which lists substances subject to restrictions on use.

The main requirements are:

• Concentration limits vary depending on the product category (perfumes, lotions, creams, hair products, etc.).
• Obligation to declare and label when the content exceeds the defined thresholds,
• It is forbidden to exceed certain maximum concentrations in products intended for prolonged application on the skin.

flavor and nutraceutical sector , methyleugenol is also monitored under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 on food flavorings, which imposes exposure limits for potentially toxic substances.

These restrictions make the measurement of methyleugenol essential in the quality control of cosmetic formulations, food flavorings, essential oils and plant extracts.

Industrial applications of methyleugenol assay

Methyleugenol analysis is useful in several sectors:

• Cosmetics : control of concentrations in perfumes, lotions, creams, deodorants, toilet waters or hygiene products containing natural extracts.
• Aromatics and perfumery : verification of the conformity of essential oils, absolutes and perfumed compositions according to IFRA standards.
• Agri-food and nutraceuticals : monitoring of plant extracts used as aromatic ingredients or functional actives in supplements.
• Research and formulation : characterization of aromatic profiles and verification of the purity of plant raw materials.

Affected matrices

• Natural essential oils and botanical extracts
• Finished cosmetic products (creams, oils, gels, perfumes)
• Food flavorings and formulations
• Nutritional supplements containing plant extracts

Recommended Related Analyses

For a complete safety assessment of fragrance or aromatic substances , YesWeLab recommends combining this test with other complementary analyses:

• Assay of methylchavicol (estragole) : a structurally similar substance, also subject to IFRA restrictions.
• Safrol dosage : monitoring of regulated risky natural aromatic compounds,
• Linalool and geraniol dosage : control of fragrance allergens in cosmetic formulas.
• Dosage of thymol and terpinen-4-ol : monitoring of volatile active compounds with antiseptic properties,
• SVHC test – substances of very high concern : compliance with the REACH regulation.

Why entrust your analysis to YesWeLab?

Since 2020, YesWeLab has established itself as a leading player in the centralized management of laboratory analyses for industry . Thanks to its intuitive digital platform , professionals can:

• Order their analyses online,
• Track their samples in real time,
• Receive their test reports compliant with ISO 17025,
• Benefit from the expertise of a vast network of accredited partner laboratories (COFRAC, ISO 17025).

The YesWeLab scientific team supports formulators, quality managers, toxicologists and manufacturers in bringing their products into compliance, whether they are cosmetics, plant extracts or food supplements.

Need to verify the compliance of your essential oils or cosmetic products containing methyleugenol?
YesWeLab today for a quick quote and analysis compliant with European regulations .