Oakmoss Absolute (Evernia prunastri) is a earthy absolute with a earthy, mossy, woody aroma and a base note. Solvent extraction from lichen, it is a versatile blending oil. For topical use, keep dilution at or below 0.1%.
THE defining chypre ingredient. Rich earthy mossy bark-like. IFRA restricted due to atranol content.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Properties
| Perfumery note | Base |
| Aroma family | Earthy |
| Chemical family | Phenol |
| Material type | Absolute |
| Extraction | Solvent extraction |
| Plant part | lichen |
| Origin | France, Morocco |
| Blending factor | 3 |
| Volatility index | 4 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 36.0 |
Safety & dilution
IFRA restricted. Contains atranol/chloroatranol (skin sensitizers). Max 0.1% in leave-on products.
| Max topical dilution | 0.1% |
| Max facial dilution | 0.05% |
| Pregnancy | Not recommended |
| Nursing | Not recommended |
| Children | Not recommended for young children |
| Cats | Not recommended |
| Dogs | Not recommended |
Safety flags
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
Plan safe amounts with our essential oil dilution calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What does Oakmoss Absolute smell like?
Oakmoss Absolute has a earthy, mossy, woody, complex aroma, classed as a earthy oil with a base note.
What is the safe dilution for Oakmoss Absolute?
For topical use, keep Oakmoss Absolute at or below 0.1%, and 0.05% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Oakmoss Absolute safe to use during pregnancy?
Oakmoss Absolute carries a pregnancy caution in our dataset and is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any use.
Is Oakmoss Absolute safe to use around children?
Oakmoss Absolute is not recommended for young children. Consult a professional before use.
Is Oakmoss Absolute safe around pets?
For cats — avoid; not considered safe; dogs — avoid; not considered safe. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.