AQUILARIA SINENSIS WOOD WATER
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
An aromatic wood water from Aquilaria sinensis — the tree that produces agarwood — capturing the fragrant compounds of this prized incense and perfume material in a water-soluble format.
Aquilaria sinensis, also known as Chinese eaglewood or agarwood tree, produces agarwood (also called oud or aloeswood) when the heartwood becomes infected with a fungus (typically Phialophora parasitica), triggering a defensive response that generates a highly aromatic, resinous wood. The resin formation involves the production of sesquiterpenes, phenylethyl compounds, chromones, and agarofurans — these are the compounds responsible for agarwood's prized fragrance. Aquilaria Sinensis Wood Water is obtained by steam distillation of the wood, where the aromatic volatile compounds co-distill with water vapor and are collected as a fragrant hydrosol. The key aroma compounds include alpha-agarofuran, beta-agarofuran, dihydroagarofuran, and various sesquiterpene alcohols. The fragrance profile is complex and highly valued — agarwood is one of the most expensive fragrant materials in the world.
Function
Skin benefits
- Aromatic compounds may provide aromatherapy benefits
- Traditional use in East Asian perfumery suggests luxury sensory experience
- Sesquiterpenes may have mild anti-inflammatory properties
Known concerns
- Primary use is as a fragrance material — EU fragrance allergens (if present) should be disclosed
- Limited specific toxicological data for topical application
- High-value material prone to adulteration with synthetic fragrance compounds
- May cause sensitization in susceptible individuals
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.