COPAIBA OIL

Description

Copaiba Oil is obtained by steam distillation of the natural resin, the Brazilian quality is preferred because of its higher content of essential oil. It has a characteristic odor and aromatic, slightly bitter, spicy taste.

Chemical Properties

Copaiba (balsam) oils are obtained by steam distillation of the exudates (balsam) from the trunks of several species of Copaifera L. (Caesalpiniaceae), a genus of trees growing in the Amazon basin where some 10 t of balsam are collected annually. Suitable species are Copaifera officinalis (Jacq.) L., Copaifera langsdorffii Desf., Copaifera multijuga Hayne, and so on. They are colorless to light yellow liquidswith the characteristic odor of the corresponding balsams and an aromatic, slightly bitter, pungent taste.
d²⁵₂₅ 0.880–0.907; n²⁰_D 1.4930–1.5000; α²⁰_D 33 ° to 7 °; solubility: 1 vol in 5–10 vol of 95% ethanol.
The oils consist primarily of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons; their main component is caryophyllene (>50%). Copaiba balsam oils and balsams are used mainly as fixatives in soap perfumes.

Physical properties

The oil is a colorless to slightly yellow liquid. It is soluble in alcohol, most fixed oils, and mineral oil. It is insoluble in glycerin and practically insoluble in propylene glycol.

Occurrence

Found in the exudation from the trunk of the Copaifera L. (fam. Leguminosae)

Uses

Copaiba Oil is used in varnishes, paints, lacquer; for restoration of oil paintings. As frangrance or odor fixative in soaps, shampoo, lotions, perfumes.

Preparation

By the steam-distillation of copaiba balsam.

Definition

Extractives and their physically modified derivatives. Copaifira, Leguminosae.

Essential oil composition

Main constituents include alpha- and beta-caryophyllene, l-cadinene and other sesquiterpenes.

Raw materials

Preparation Products