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Peruvian Pepper

FRUITS, VEGETABLES AND NUTS  /  spicy · fruity · sweet
Peruvian Pepper
Peruvian Pepper perfume ingredient
CategoryFRUITS, VEGETABLES AND NUTS
Subcategoryspicy · fruity · sweet
Origin
VolatilityHeart Note
BotanicalSchinus molle
AppearancePale yellow to amber liquid
Odor StrengthMedium
Producing CountriesArgentina, Chile, Peru
PyramidHeart

Peruvian Pepper adds a sweet, spicy note to fragrances, like warm spices and fruity nuances.

  1. Scent
  2. Terroir & Origins
  3. The Full Story
  4. Fun Fact
  5. Extraction & Chemistry
  6. In Perfumery

Scent

The scent of Peruvian Pepper is an intriguing blend of sweet, fruity, and slightly spicy notes. Upon first encountering it, you may perceive a bright and fresh character, like ripe berries and tropical fruits, creating an immediate sense of warmth and comfort. As it evolves, the spiciness becomes more pronounced, like a gentle dash of peppercorns.

Scent Evolution

This aromatic profile makes Peruvian Pepper an arresting ingredient that can carries vivid imagery of sun-drenched landscapes, where the warmth of the sun enhances the natural sweetness of its berries. It carries a light, airy quality that can transport the wearer to rich orchards, merging the essence of fruity freshness with a subtle peppery kick that lingers delightfully on theskin.

Evolution over time

Immediately

Immediately

Bright and fruity with sweet nuances
After a few hours

After a few hours

Spicy notes become more pronounced
After a few days

After a few days

Soft, warm sweetness lingers

Terroir & Post-Harvest Process

Indicative 2025 wholesale prices.

The Full Story

Peruvian Pepper, scientifically known as Schinus molle, is a bright ingredient In perfumery. Originating from the Andean regions of South America, it has long been used for its aromatic properties. Historically, indigenous cultures used its berriesfor culinary purposes and for their medicinal benefits. Today, it has found a prominent place in the fragrance industry because of its unique olfactory profile that combines warmth and sweetness.

Origin and Production

Sourcing of Peruvian Pepper involves harvesting the small, pink berries from the tree, which are then dried and processed to extract their aromatic oils. The tree thrives in arid climates, often found in regions like Peru, Chile, and Argentina. It can adapt and flourish in challenging environments speaks to its resilience and the rich biodiversity of its native habitat.

Chemistry and Scent Profile

In perfumery, Peruvian Pepper is known for ability to bridge fruity andspicy notes. It introduces a lively and uplifting character to fragrances, often used in both men's and women's scents. Its sweet-spicy essence has become a favored choice among contemporary perfumers looking to create innovative and structured olfactory experiences.

Did You Know?

Despite its name, Peruvian Pepper is not a true pepper; it belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, which includes cashews and mangoes.

This note in Première Peau. Insuline Safrine · Gravitas Capitale. Sample all seven extraits in the Discovery Set.

Did You Know?

Did you know?
Despite its name, Peruvian Pepper is not a true pepper; it belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, which includes cashews and mangoes.

Extraction & Chemistry

Extraction method: Steam distillation or solvent extraction of dried berries

↑ See Terroir & Origins for origin-specific methods.

Molecular FormulaComplex mixture — key compounds: alpha-phellandrene C₁₀H₁₆, limonene C₁₀H₁₆
CAS Number68917-52-2
Botanical NameSchinus molle
IFRA StatusNo known restrictions
SynonymsPink Pepper, California Pepper, Molle, Aguaribay
Physical Properties
Odor StrengthMedium
AppearancePale yellow to amber liquid
Flash Point120.00 °F (est)
Specific Gravity0.84000 to 0.87000 @ 25.00 °C (est)
Refractive Index1.47500 to 1.49000 @ 20.00 °C (est)

In Perfumery

Peruvian Pepper is primarily used as a heart note in perfumery, where it blends with other fruity and floral notes. Its versatility allows it to pair smoothly with citrus, jasmine, and various woods, reinforcing the structure of a fragrance composition. By providing a sweet-spicy backdrop, it enriches both fresh and warm scents, making it a popular choice among modern fragrance creators.

From the raw to the worn

This is what it becomes.