Labdanum Absolute from Resinoid

#### Labdanum Absolute from Resinoid. This product, although quite common in the trade, is rarely sold under the above proper name. It appears under a wealth of trade names, etc., and in an equally large variety of colors, qualities, viscosities, etc. The direct alcohol extract from labdanum "gum" surpasses the above product in popularity. See **Labdanum "Resin Absolute"**. **Labdanum Absolute from Resinoid **is prepared **from Labdanum Resinoid **(see this monograph) by alcohol extraction. In this two-step extraction, the yield is inevitably somewhat smaller than in the case of direct alcohol extraction of the "gum". On the other hand, the two-step extraction does a better job of eliminating the waxy and resinous, mostly non-odorous and alcohol-insoluble matter. Resinoids prepared by petroleum ether extraction yield very attractive and light amber-colored alcohol-extracts (absolutes). A number of such materials are commercially available, usually under all kinds of fancy names, rarely revealing the true nature of the composition of the product. As a result of the two-step extraction, a hard, dark and almost odorless residue is left from the second extraction. This residue finds some use in the so-called **Labdanum Resins **(see that monograph). Resinoids prepared by benzene extraction yield absolutes which are darker and more solid. The odor of such products varies significantly according to the solvent used. It is hardly possible to give a satisfactory odor description other than to mention briefly that the labdanum absolutes carry the odor characteristics of the resinoids from which they are prepared. From a perfumery point of view, the petroleum ether extracts yield absolutes of a "cistus oil" type of odor, more dry and ambra-like. The absolutes from benzene-resinoids have a sweeter ambre-like odor and often a somewhat "caramellic" or burnt note, probably due to the higher temperatures during the solvent recovery combined with the differences in extract composition (higher content of plant colors, non-odorous plant extract, etc.). The general application of **Labdanum Absolute from Resinoid **is similar to that of the resinoid itself. The absolute has the advantage of being alcohol soluble, and it is better suited for lotion perfumes, colognes, aerosol perfumes, face powders, etc.