Short answer: A fragrance compound is a concentrated scent blend used to give scent to cosmetics, cleaning and home products. A flavouring gives taste and aroma to food and is subject to food regulations. An extract is a plant's components obtained with a solvent; it is used for scent, colour or botanical content in everything from cosmetics to food.
The definitions in one table
| Product | What it is | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Fragrance compound | A blend of natural and synthetic aromatic ingredients | Perfume, soap, shampoo, detergent, candles |
| Flavouring | A preparation that gives food taste and aroma | Confectionery, Turkish delight, gum, drinks, desserts |
| Plant extract | A plant's components obtained with water, glycerine, alcohol or oil | Creams, shampoos, supplements, food |
| Essential oil | A volatile oil obtained from a plant by distillation or cold pressing | Aromatherapy, natural scent, fragrance raw material |
| Hydrosol | Aromatic water obtained with the essential oil during distillation | Toners, face mists, water phase of formulas |
Is a fragrance compound the same as an essential oil?
No. An essential oil is a natural raw material from a single plant (e.g. lavender oil). A fragrance compound blends many ingredients, essential oils included, into a defined scent profile. Its advantages are a scent that is the same in every batch, stable in different bases and predictable in cost.
Why are flavours a separate category?
Flavourings are used in products that are eaten and, unlike cosmetic fragrances, are subject to food regulations. A cosmetic fragrance should therefore not be used in food, nor a food flavouring casually in a cosmetic product. In both areas the supplier should state clearly what the product is intended for.
Which one for which product?
- Perfume, deodorant, cologne: a perfume fragrance.
- Soap, shampoo, shower gel, cream: a personal care fragrance, plus a plant extract for "natural ingredient" claims.
- Detergent, softener, surface cleaner: cleaning and laundry fragrances.
- Candles and room fragrance: candle and home fragrances.
- Turkish delight, candy, gum: a food flavouring.
- Toners and face mists: a hydrosol, with a light cosmetic fragrance if needed.
Conclusion
The right choice depends on the product's purpose and base. When in doubt, sharing your product type and target profile and asking for samples is the fastest, most reliable route.