Botanical Name: Hibiscus abelmoschus (syn. Abelmoschus moschatus)
Part Used: Seeds, dried
Method of Extraction: Supercritical CO₂ Select Extraction
Perfumery Note: Base
Country of Origin: Peru (raw material)
Certification: Bio-Gro, COSMOS and NATRUE approved, Halal, Kosher

Ambrette Seed CO₂ select Extract, also known as Musk Seed, is a rare and exquisite natural musk material used in high perfumery. It is obtained through supercritical CO₂ extraction of Hibiscus abelmoschus seeds, producing a rich yellow oil with a soft, sweet, musky, slightly animalic character.

This extract is treasured for its warm amber-like depth, subtle floral notes, and long-lasting musk profile. It creates a sensual, elegant foundation in natural perfumes and adds sophistication to body oils, balms, and aromatherapy blends.

Why CO₂ Ambrette Seed Is Special

Compared with steam-distilled ambrette seed oil, the CO₂ select version contains a far more complete profile of:

• ambrettolide (the key natural musk lactone)

• farnesyl acetate

• dodecyl and decyl acetates

• natural farnesol derivatives

The CO₂ method protects delicate aromatic compounds, giving a smoother, rounder, more true-to-seed musk effect.

It is highly concentrated, requiring 286–357 kg of seeds to produce 1 kg of extract. Hopefully that explains the price.

Key Constituents

Volatile Compound Profile:

• Farnesyl acetate: 66.5%

• Farnesyl acetate: 4.5%

• Ambrettolide and homologues: 10.3%

• Decyl acetate: 3.3%

• Dodecyl acetate: 3.4%

• Farnesol: 1.5%

Essential Oil Content:

• Total essential oil: 79.9%

These constituents are responsible for the extract’s musky, amber-like, warm, floral, woody aroma.

Aroma Profile

Based on the specification and Kerkhof’s sensory description:

• musky

• woody

• nutty

• sweet

• warm

• slightly animalic

• soft amber tones

• light floral undertone

A smooth and elegant natural musk effect, long lasting, with a gentle diffusive warmth. When smelling this at 100% it is very pungent but when diluted the aroma profile comes through a lot nicer.

Skin and Aromatherapeutic Benefits

While primarily used in perfumery, ambrette seed has traditional and supportive properties:

• calming and grounding

• nervous system support

• aids stress management

• assists emotional balance

• mild analgesic effects

• thought to influence hormonal balance in traditional systems

It may also show antibacterial effects against Bacillus subtilis and Streptococcus aureus.

Perfumery Actions

A highly prized natural base note:

• soft musk

• amber warmth

• sweet woody depth

• gentle animalic nuance

• excellent fixative

• perfect for chypres, orientals, unisex, and woody florals

Pairs beautifully with:
sandalwood, rose, patchouli, vetiver, cedarwood, orange, bergamot, frankincense, carrot seed, coriander, and lavender.

How to Use

Perfumery Use:

• 1–20% in perfume compositions

• Up to 50% in special conditions or concentrated bases

Topical Use (Body Oils, Balms, Cosmetics):

• 0.5–5% depending on desired strength

• Patch testing recommended

Traditional Uses

According to the General Specification:

• used in Southeast Asian folk medicine for cramps, digestive discomfort, and headaches

• considered a warming, comforting aromatic seed

Special Notes

• Highly concentrated

• Keep cool and protect from light

• Store under inert gas for maximum freshness

   

Safety

From SDS and book:

• Causes skin irritation

• Causes serious eye irritation

• May cause skin sensitisation in some individuals

• External use only

• Keep away from children

• Avoid contact with eyes

• Not recommended during pregnancy unless professionally guided

• Patch test recommended

• Flammable vapours may accumulate in closed spaces

• Not classified as a dangerous good for transport

Zurma Quality

Every batch undergoes COA verification, GCMS profile review, and in-house aroma assessment. We only supply extracts that reflect the highest standards of natural integrity, purity, and authenticity. This Musk Seed CO₂ Extract is a premium natural musk material, true to plant origin and ideal for high quality natural perfumery.

General Essential Oil Safety Recommendations
Do not take essential oils internally unless under advisement by a qualified medical professional.
Do not use essential oils undiluted on the skin. It is always best to try a small patch test first of the diluted essential oil.
People who are pregnant or have serious medical problems are advised to consult with a qualified aromatherapy practitioner before using essential oils.
Use extreme caution when using essential oils with children. It is safest to consult with a qualified aromatherapy practitioner before using essential oils with tamariki.

General Disclaimer
The product information provided on this website is intended for educational purposes only. The information provided is not considered to be complete and is not guaranteed to be accurate. The information contained in this website is not intended to be sufficient to provide diagnosis and/or treatment of medical conditions. It is recommended that treatment of serious health conditions be done with the help of a trained qualified medical practitioner.