Clary sage oil

Chemical properties

Clary sage oil is obtained by steam distillation of flowering tops and foliage of Salvia sclarea L. (Lamiaceae). It is a pale yellow to yellow liquid with a fresh herbaceous odor and a wine-like bouquet.
d²⁰₂₀ 0.890–0.908; n²⁰_D 1.4560-1.4660; α²⁰_D ?10 ° to ?26 °; ester value: 180–235 corresponding to an ester content of 63–82% calculated as linalyl acetate; solubility: 1 vol in max. 3 vol 80% ethanol; content by GC: 56–78% linalyl acetate and 6.5–24% linalool.
In addition to linalyl acetate, the oil contains linalool and other terpene alcohols, as well as their acetates. When the volatile components are evaporated, a distinct ambergris note develops, which is attributed to oxidative degradation products of sclareol.
Clary sage is mainly grown in Eastern Europe (Ukraine,Moldova), France, the United States, and China. By far, the main part of the crop is used to prepare clary sage extract (concrete) by solvent extraction.Theconcrete is almost exclusively used to isolate its main constituent, the diterpene sclareol.

Chemical properties

The essential oil, sometimes called muscatel, is obtained by steam or water distillation of flowering tops and leaves with yields ranging between 0.7 to 1.5%. It is produced in large quantities in France, Russia and Morocco. The Italian production is fairly small.

Physical properties

The essential oil of French production is a yellow liquid. The physical–chemical characteristics vary, depending on the source; minor components also vary. The oil is soluble in most fixed oils, and in mineral oil up to three volumes, but becomes opalescent on further dilution. It is insoluble in glycerin and in propylene glycol.

Occurrence

Found in the leaves and flowering tops of Salvia sclarea L. (Fam. Labiatae) (Gildemeister & Hoffman, 1961 ; Naves, 1974).

The Uses of Clary sage oil

clary sage oil (Salvia sclarea) could be beneficial in products designed for use around the eyes because of its soothing and antiinflammatory properties. It is used to refresh the skin and can also mask odors. In addition, its fragrance may have aroma therapeutic value, such as promoting cell regeneration for normal, dry, and sensitive skin types.

Preparation

By steam distillation of the flowering tops and leaves of Salvia sclarea L. (Naves, 1974).

Definition

Extractives and their physically modified derivatives. Salvia sclarea, Labiatae.

Essential oil composition

The main constituents of clary sage oil are linalyl acetate and linalool

Safety Profile

Low toxicity by ingestion. A skinirritant. When heated to decomposition it emits acridsmoke and irritating vapors.