Overview
ISO 8897:2010 specifies defined characteristics and test requirements for oil of juniper berry (Juniperus communis L.) to facilitate consistent assessment of its quality. Published by ISO/TC 54 (Essential oils), this second edition updates the original 1991 standard and sets measurable physical, chemical and chromatographic criteria used by producers, laboratories and regulators to verify authenticity and suitability for use.
Key topics and requirements
The standard covers sensory, physical and chromatographic criteria, sampling and reference test methods:
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Appearance, colour, odour
- Liquid; colourless, pale green or pale yellow.
- Odour described as fresh, warm, balsamic, sweet-woody.
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Physical properties (at 20 °C)
- Relative density (d20): 0.850–0.880
- Refractive index (n20): 1.470–1.483
- Optical rotation (20 °C): between 0° and −16°
- Miscibility in 95% ethanol: 1 volume oil must form a clear solution with ≤10 volumes of 95% ethanol
- Acid value: maximum 2
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Chromatographic profile (normative)
- Gas chromatography identification of representative components with specified percentage ranges:
- α-Pinene: 25.0–45.0%
- Sabinene: 4.0–20.0%
- β-Pinene: 1.0–12.0%
- Myrcene: 3.0–22.0%
- Limonene: 2.0–8.0%
- 1-Terpinen-4-ol: 1.0–6.0%
- n‑Bornyl acetate: not detectable to 0.6%
- β-Caryophyllene: 1.5–5.0%
- α-Humulene: 1.0–4.0%
- Germacrene D: 1.0–5.0%
- δ-Cadinene: 1.0–3.5%
- Chromatographic profile is normative; typical chromatograms and GC operating conditions are provided as informative guidance.
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Sampling & testing
- Minimum final sample volume: 25 ml (ISO 212).
- Test methods referenced: ISO 279, 280, 592, 875, 1242, and ISO 11024 parts 1 & 2 for GC profiling.
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Flashpoint (informative)
- Mean value reported: +41 °C (Setaflash apparatus); provided for safety/transport information.
Applications and users
ISO 8897:2010 is used by:
- Essential oil producers & distillers to confirm product quality and consistency.
- Analytical laboratories performing GC profiling and physico-chemical testing for identity/authenticity.
- Perfumery, flavor and aromatherapy manufacturers selecting juniper berry oil for formulations.
- Quality assurance, procurement and regulatory bodies for specification and acceptance criteria.
- Transport, insurance and safety officers referencing flashpoint information for handling and shipping.
Related standards
Key referenced documents for methods and handling:
Keywords: ISO 8897, ISO 8897:2010, oil of juniper berry, Juniperus communis, essential oil standard, chromatographic profile, gas chromatography, essential oil quality.