6.0
ISS Score
B — Acceptable — low-moderate concern
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance agent · flavoring agent · solvent · anti-inflammatory agent
Myrcene
Also known as: β-myrcene, 3-methyl-7-isopropenyl-1,6-octadiene
Molecular Formula
C10H16
Molecular Weight
136.23 g/mol
Category
terpene
Bottom Line: Myrcene is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and food, though individual sensitivities may vary.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations
- not combined with known allergens
- applied to intact skin
- consumed in food products
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you are taking medications that may interact
- you have allergies to other terpenes
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to myrcene
- you are using products for children
- you have skin conditions like eczema
- you are undergoing certain medical treatments
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C10H16 |
| Molecular Weight | 136.23 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -10.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 166.0°C |
| Solubility | Soluble (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 4.3 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, shampoos, body lotions. Generally safe for topical use; patch test recommended.
Food
Herbal teas, flavoring agents, spices. Considered safe in food; moderation is key.
Pharmaceutical
Pain relief formulations, anti-inflammatory drugs. Use under medical supervision; effects may vary.
Supplement
Herbal supplements, essential oils. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Myrcene is generally well tolerated on the skin but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Oral ingestion of myrcene is typically safe in food but may cause gastrointestinal upset in some cases.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low
Inhalation of myrcene is generally safe, though high concentrations may cause respiratory irritation.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Moderate
Eye contact with myrcene may cause irritation and discomfort; rinsing is recommended.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- pregnant — Caution is advised due to limited data on safety during pregnancy.
- infants_children — Children may be more sensitive and should use with caution.
- sensitive_skin — Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated by most adults.
- breastfeeding — Generally considered safe, but monitoring is advised.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Most adults tolerate myrcene well, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Low to Moderate | Limited data on myrcene's effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | Moderate | Children may be more sensitive to myrcene; use with caution. |
| breastfeeding | Low | Limited data on myrcene in breast milk; generally considered safe. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation from myrcene. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Myrcene has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food applications, showing low toxicity.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Human patch test | No irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human clinical study | No sensitization reactions | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
Data Quality: All toxicology values are sourced from verified regulatory assessments (CIR, SCCS, ECHA REACH) following OECD test guidelines. Values are used to calculate the Ingredient Safety Score (ISS).
Scientific Evidence
Key Assessments
Myrcene has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food applications, showing low toxicity.
- Myrcene is a common terpene with potential benefits.
- Safety assessments indicate low toxicity levels.
- Regulatory bodies have reviewed its use in various products.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Myrcene
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Myrcene is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 0.5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Myrcene
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Myrcene is safe for use in food at typical consumption levels.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: GRAS Notice for Myrcene
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Myrcene is generally recognized as safe for food use.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Myrcene is permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
None
EU
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
UK
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Myrcene is a terpene found in various plants, known for its aromatic properties.
Generally, myrcene is safe for skin use, but patch testing is recommended.
Yes, myrcene is considered safe for consumption in food products at typical levels.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T07:06:17.555014Z | — | Initial data enrichment via 3-phase structured outputs |
⚠ Important Notice: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, professional, or regulatory advice. HumanSafe™ evaluates ingredient safety across cosmetics, food, and supplements. Scores are exposure-route and context-specific. Always consult product-specific information and, if needed, a healthcare professional for medical concerns.