DIPTERYX ODORATA SEED BUTTER
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A fragrant butter from tonka bean seeds — rich and emollient with coumarin content that gives it a sweet vanilla-cinnamon scent, but coumarin limits how much can be safely used.
Dipteryx odorata (tonka bean) seed butter is a fixed oil/fat expressed from the seeds of the tonka bean. The seeds are notably rich in coumarin (1-3% in the whole seed, concentrated in the butter), which forms naturally from coumaric acid during seed maturation. Coumarin has anticoagulant properties when ingested and is hepatotoxic at high systemic doses. In topical cosmetics, coumarin can cause skin sensitization and allergic contact dermatitis. EU regulations limit coumarin content in cosmetic products to 0.001% in ready-to-use skin products for leave-on applications. The butter is otherwise a rich, nourishing emollient suitable for dry skin formulations at compliant concentrations.
Skin benefits
- Rich, nourishing emollient for dry and compromised skin
- Film-forming — helps reduce trans-epidermal water loss
- Pleasant vanilla-cinnamon aroma (natural fragrance)
- Contains antioxidant compounds from seed phenolics
Known concerns
- Contains coumarin — EU-regulated due to hepatotoxicity and sensitization concerns
- Skin sensitization and allergic contact dermatitis possible
- EU cosmetic limit: 0.001% in leave-on products
- May be restricted or prohibited in some markets due to coumarin content
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.