Fixatives balsam copaiba

Caryophyllene (190) is the main constituent (> 50%) of Copaiba (balsam) oils, which are obtained by steam distillation of the exudate (balsam) from the trunk of several species of Copaifera L. (Fabaceae), a genus of trees growing in the Amazon basin [26]. Copaiba balsam oils and balsams are used mainly as fixatives in soap perfumes. 

Copaiba Oil occurs as a colorless to slightly yellow liquid with the characteristic odor of copaiba balsam and an aromatic, slightly bitter and pungent taste. It is the volatile oil obtained by steam distillation of copaiba balsam, an exudate from the trunk of various South American species of Copaifera L. (Fam. Leguminosae). It is soluble in alcohol, in most fixed oils, and in mineral oil. It is insoluble in glycerin and practically insoluble in propylene glycol. 

Copaiba balsam from Brazil and Venezuela (d 0.94-0.99) is a viscous hquid used in varnishes and lacquers as an odor fixative and in manufacture of photographic paper. It is the source of copaiba oil. 

The oleoresin and oil have occasionally been used in pharmaceutical preparations (diuretics, cough medicines, etc.). Both copaiba balsam and oil are widely used in cosmetic preparations (soaps, bubble baths, detergents, creams, lotions, and perfumes), the former primarily as a fixative and the latter as a fragrance component. Maximum use level of the oil or oleoresin in perfumes is 0.8%. 

---