Sambucus Nigra Oil

What is Sambucus Nigra Oil?

Sambucus Nigra Oil is an essential oil extracted via steam distillation from the fresh flowers of Sambucus nigra, the black elder tree native to Europe, western Asia, and North Africa. This perennial shrub belongs to the Adoxaceae family and yields a volatile oil rich in compounds like linalool and geraniol, giving it a distinctive sweet, floral, and musky aroma with fruity undertones. In cosmetic formulations, it functions mainly within the fragrance category, blended into products such as lotions, creams, shampoos, and perfumes. It contributes to the scent profile by providing sensory character and effectively masks undesirable odors from other raw materials, improving the overall olfactory experience without altering the product's texture or stability.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
Masking
Reduces perception of unpleasant odors or tastes by neutralizing them or covering them with more acceptable sensory notes.

Benefits

Enhances product scent with natural floral-fruity notes.

Neutralizes base odors for a cleaner sensory profile.

Non-comedogenic, compatible with pore-friendly formulas.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking natural fragrance alternatives in daily skincare.
Those with known allergies to elder or Adoxaceae family plants.
Users of multi-ingredient products needing odor balancing.
People sensitive to essential oils or fragrances.
All skin types, including acne-prone, due to low pore-clogging potential.
Individuals preferring fragrance-free products.

Safety Notes

  • Low hazard rating from independent assessments.
  • Safe in cosmetics when used within regulatory concentration limits.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sambucus Nigra Oil

What is Sambucus Nigra Oil derived from?

It comes from steam distillation of elderflowers (Sambucus nigra).

Is it suitable for acne-prone skin?

Yes, with a comedogenic rating of 0, it does not clog pores.

Does it have strong skin benefits?

Mainly provides sensory enhancement via scent, not targeted skincare effects.