Home › Glossary › Peruvian Pepper

Peruvian Pepper

Q: Is Peruvian Pepper natural or synthetic?

. Extraction: Steam distillation or solvent extraction of dried berries.

FRUITS, VEGETABLES AND NUTS / spicy · fruity · sweet

Peruvian Pepper

Category	FRUITS, VEGETABLES AND NUTS
Subcategory	spicy · fruity · sweet
Origin
Volatility	Heart Note
Botanical	Schinus molle
Appearance	Pale yellow to amber liquid
Odor Strength	Medium
Producing Countries	Argentina, Chile, Peru
Pyramid	Heart

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

Scent
Terroir & Origins
The Full Story
Fun Fact
Extraction & Chemistry
In Perfumery

Scent

The scent of Peruvian Pepper combines sweet, fruity, and slightly spicy notes. It opens with a bright, fresh character resembling ripe berries and tropical fruits, giving an immediate warmth. As it evolves the spiciness becomes more pronounced, like a dash of peppercorns.

Scent Evolution

Peruvian Pepper has a light, airy quality, merging fruity freshness with a subtle peppery facet that lingers on the skin.

Evolution over time

Immediately

Bright and fruity with sweet nuances

After a few hours

Spicy notes become more pronounced

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 used in perfumery. It originates from the Andean regions of South America and has long been used for its aromatic properties. Historically, indigenous cultures used its berries for culinary purposes and for their medicinal benefits. Today it is used in the fragrance industry for its warm, sweet profile.

Origin and Production

Peruvian Pepper is sourced by harvesting the small, pink berries, which are dried and processed to extract their aromatic oils. The tree thrives in arid climates, including regions such as Peru, Chile, and Argentina.

Chemistry and Scent Profile

In perfumery, Peruvian Pepper bridges fruity and spicy notes. It adds a fresh, sweet-spicy character and is used in both men's and women's fragrances.

Did You Know?

Despite its name, Peruvian Pepper is not a true pepper; it belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, which also 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 Formula	Complex mixture — key compounds: alpha-phellandrene C₁₀H₁₆, limonene C₁₀H₁₆
CAS Number	68917-52-2
Botanical Name	Schinus molle
IFRA Status	No known restrictions
Synonyms	Pink Pepper, California Pepper, Molle, Aguaribay
Physical Properties
Odor Strength	Medium
Appearance	Pale yellow to amber liquid
Flash Point	120.00 °F (est)
Specific Gravity	0.84000 to 0.87000 @ 25.00 °C (est)
Refractive Index	1.47500 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.