Question 1

What is the botanical source of Guaiacwood and the common errors in its naming?

Accepted Answer

Erroneously called guaiacwood concrete, this oil is derived from the wood of Bulnesia Sarmienti, a wild-growing tree from the jungles of Paraguay and Argentina.

Question 2

What distillation methods are used to produce Guaiacwood Reconstitution?

Accepted Answer

The oil is steam distilled, and occasionally steam-and-water distilled, from the wood of the tree.

Question 3

What are the physical characteristics and typical color of Guaiacwood?

Accepted Answer

It is a soft or semi-solid mass, yellowish to greenish-yellow or pale amber in color. When melted, it may stay supercooled and liquid for a long time.

Question 4

How is the aromatic profile of Guaiacwood Oil described in comparison to literature?

Accepted Answer

Guaiacwood oil presents a delicately sweet, rosy-woody odor which is often referred to as 'tearose-like.' However, it frequently presents odor types not reported in literature.

Question 5

What causes the unwanted 'smoked ham' odor sometimes found in Guaiacwood Reconstitution?

Accepted Answer

This odor may occur in oils which have been 'forced' during distillation through the addition of mineral acid (sulfuric, etc.) to the chopped, wet wood in the still, which increases yield but creates a hazard of spot-burning.

Question 6

What role does the age of the raw material play in the scent of Guaiacwood?

Accepted Answer

Similar to amyris, the age of the wood prior to distillation has some influence upon the odor of the oil.

Question 7

What is the primary chemical constituent of Guaiacwood Reconstitution and its derivatives?

Accepted Answer

The main constituent is called Guaiol. This sesquiterpene alcohol can be acetylated to the so-called Guaiyl Acetate.

Question 8

Which aromatic compounds and oils blend effectively with Guaiacwood Reconstitution?

Accepted Answer

It blends well with linalool, nerol, geraniol, terpineol, oak moss, ionones, orris products, spice oils, and others.

Question 9

Who regulates the international trade of the raw materials for Guaiacwood Reconstitution?

Accepted Answer

The tree Bulnesia sarmientoi is listed under CITES Appendix II. This means trade is strictly regulated to ensure sustainability and prevent the extinction of the species in the Gran Chaco region of South America.

Question 10

What are the primary therapeutic applications of Guaiacwood Reconstitution in traditional medicine?

Accepted Answer

Research indicates that Guaiacwood has been used historically for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It is often cited in ethnobotanical studies as a treatment for joint pain, rheumatism, and skin conditions.

Question 11

How much Guaiol is typically required to define a high-quality Guaiacwood Reconstitution?

Accepted Answer

Standardized technical sheets (ISO/GC-MS) typically look for a Guaiol content ranging between 40% and 72%. A high percentage of this sesquiterpene alcohol is essential for the oil’s characteristic fixative properties and rose-like aroma.

Question 12

When is the most sustainable time to harvest wood for Guaiacwood Reconstitution?

Accepted Answer

Sustainability frameworks suggest harvesting from fallen timber or managed forests. Because it is a slow-growing tree, ethical producers focus on deadwood collection to minimize the impact on the living 'Palo Santo' ecosystem.

Question 13

Where is Guaiacwood Reconstitution most commonly used in industrial applications?

Accepted Answer

Beyond fine fragrance, it is a staple in the soap-making industry. Due to its stability and fixative nature, it helps 'anchor' lighter floral scents, preventing them from fading during the saponification process.

Question 14

Which specific safety precautions should be taken when handling Guaiacwood Reconstitution?

Accepted Answer

According to IFRA and SDS guidelines, Guaiacwood Reconstitution is generally safe but should be handled with care to avoid skin sensitization in its undiluted form. It is classified as an environmental hazard (Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects) if spilled in large quantities.

Question 15

How does storage temperature affect the shelf life of Guaiacwood Reconstitution?

Accepted Answer

The oil has a shelf life of approximately 36 to 48 months. Because it is a semi-solid mass, it should be stored in a cool, dry place; however, it often requires gentle warming (around 40°C to 50°C) to become mobile for formulation.

Question 16

Whose standards verify the purity of Guaiacwood Reconstitution to ensure no mineral acids were used?

Accepted Answer

Quality control labs use GC/MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) and Acid Value tests. A high acid value or the presence of specific sulfur-degradation markers can confirm if the oil was 'forced' with mineral acids during production.

Question 17

How many chemical variants or chemotypes of Guaiacwood Reconstitution are commercially recognized?

Accepted Answer

While Bulnesia sarmientoi is the primary source, there are different grades based on the ratio of Guaiol to Bulnesol. The 'Premium' grade is usually favored for its higher alcohol content and lack of 'smoky' off-notes.

Guaiacwood - Reconstitution