Shiikuwasha

NaturalCITRUSfresh · fruity

TopPyramid

4/5Strength

24hTenacity

2Origins

Specimen

Citrus depressa

Definition

A tiny Okinawan citrus — intensely sour with a particular nobiletin-rich peel.

Shikwasa, Shekwasha, Okinawan lime

Type: Ingredient
Olfactive family: Citrus
Subfamily: Zesty citrus
Cluster: Zesty citrus
Source: fruit peel
Chemical class: complex natural (expressed oil)

Instruments

Pyramid

TTop

HHeart

BBase

4/5Strength

High

odour strength

Tenacity on blotter

24hours

1 h6 h24 h3 d7 d400 h

Producing countries

Japan Taiwan

Scent

Shiikuwasha has a bright, zesty aroma. The scent combines lime and grapefruit, with a slightly sweet undertone and a sharp, tangy quality.

Scent Evolution

The scent shows a subtle green freshness with herbal, foliage-like nuances.

Signature Accords

As the fragrance evolves, the initial brightness softens, creating a layered profile that stays dynamic through the wear.

In PREMIEREPEAU

DISCOVERY SET7 × 2 ml →EXTRAIT DE PARFUMThe seven extraits →

Terroir & Expressions

The Full Story

Shiikuwasha, also known as shikwasa or Okinawan lime, is a citrus fruit native to the Ryukyu Islands of Japan, traditionally used in cooking and in folk medicine. The fruit is small, about 4 to 6 centimeters in diameter, with a glossy green skin that turns yellow when fully ripe. Shiikuwasha is used in regional dishes and beverages.

Origin and Production

In perfumery, shiikuwasha has a bright, fresh scent. Its essential oil is extracted from the peel and is rich in limonene, giving a zesty character.

Chemistry and Scent Profile

Perfumers use shiikuwasha in both fresh and floral compositions. It can brighten a fragrance and add an exotic note to traditional citrus accords.

Role in Perfumery

Shiikuwasha is a regional citrus increasingly used in perfumery as an alternative to more common citrus notes.

Did You Know?

Shiikuwasha is traditionally used in Okinawa for its flavor and for reputed health benefits, including supporting digestion and immunity.

Related notes: Bergamot · Bigarade · Bitter Orange · Blood Orange · Buddhas Hand · Calamansi · Candied Lemon · Chen Pi

Extraction & Chemistry

Extraction method

Cold pressing

Formula: Complex mixture — key: nobiletin (C₂₁H₂₂O₈), limonene (C₁₀H₁₆)
CAS: N/A — no standard CAS for essential oil
Botanical: Citrus depressa
Appearance: Yellow to golden mobile liquid
Odour strength: High
Lasting power: 24 hours
Synonyms: Shikwasa, Shekwasha, Okinawan lime

IFRA status

No restriction

No known restrictions

Physical properties

Note: Shiikuwasha (Citrus depressa) essential oil. Key components: limonene, gamma-terpinene, nobiletin. Specific gravity ~0.840-0.860 @ 25 °C (est).

In Perfumery

Shiikuwasha is a top note in perfumery, adding a burst of citrus freshness that captures attention immediately. Shiikuwasha can complement green notes, enhancing their natural and organic qualities. Because of its lively character, Shiikuwasha is often utilized in summer fragrances and unisex blends, where its refreshing qualities can shine. Perfumers appreciate its ability to bridge the gap between sweetness and acidity, allowing for a balanced fragrance structure.

Role in the formula

01modifier

02backbone

03signature note

04lifting agent

05blender

06naturalizer

Available as

expressed oil