Buy Now
Ingredient Glossary · Floral Bases

Rose Wardia

WARDIA® 184036 · dsm-Firmenich · گلاب کی خوشبو · Ward (وَرد)

Gulab ki Khushbu (گلاب کی خوشبو) — the crown jewel of rose bases, created by Firmenich in the 1930s before rose ketones were even discovered. Built on classical rose alcohols (PEA ~63%, citronellol 18–22%, geraniol 10–15%) with captive muguet and spice accords, WARDIA® 184036 delivers the warm, honeyed fullness of Rosa centifolia at a fraction of the cost of natural rose absolute. Indispensable for Pakistani attar makers, Gulf-export EDP formulators, and bridal fragrance creators.

WARDIA®
184036
Trade Name
~10
ppb
Odour Threshold
Cat.4
57.54%
IFRA Max Fine Frag.
Scroll
Quick Reference

At a Glance

Trade Name / Type
WARDIA® 184036 · Wardia BM · Rose Wardia — Proprietary floral specialty base by dsm-Firmenich (formerly Firmenich SA, Geneva)
CAS / INCI / FEMA
CAS: Mixture — no single CAS assigned · Not an INCI-listed single chemical · FEMA: Not applicable (fragrance only, not flavour)
Key Components
2-Phenylethyl Alcohol (~63%) · Citronellol (18–22%) · Geraniol (10–15%) · Nerol, Farnesol, Eugenol (trace) · Hydroxycitronellal (trace) · Captive Firmenich ingredients
Physical Form
Pale yellow to amber viscous liquid · Sp. Gr. ~0.945–0.975 g/cm³ · Flash Point >100°C · Fully soluble in DPG, ethanol, oils
Odour Threshold / Use
~10 ppb (PEA-dominant complex blend) · Attar use: 2–5% in DPG · Fine fragrance: 2–10% in compound
IFRA Status (51st)
✓ Compliant — Cat.4 (fine fragrance): max 57.54% in finished product. Certificate Ref. 22496703. At normal compound doses, far below limit
EU Allergen Status
⚠ Declaration required — contains citronellol, geraniol, eugenol, benzyl alcohol, cinnamyl alcohol, citral, farnesol above EU thresholds in leave-on products
Halal Status
✓ Permissible — fully synthetic / plant-terpene origin, no ethanol, no animal inputs. PEA via Friedel-Crafts; citronellol/geraniol from myrcene. Verify with supplier for certification
Odour Character
Rose, muguet, honey, powdery, green-spice, warm · Gulab ki Khushbu (گلاب کی خوشبو) · Classical Rosa centifolia elegance — warm, round, honeyed, without damascone edge
Fragrance Note Position
Heart / Middle (the emotional core of a composition) · Opening fresh rose dewy character · Lingers into warm powdery dry-down · 3–6 hrs on skin
Pakistan Cultural Role
Gulab (گلاب) — the fragrance of shaadi, Eid, Sufi dargahs (Data Darbar Lahore, Abdullah Shah Ghazi Karachi), mehndi ceremonies, and everyday Pakistani rose tradition
Historic Significance
Created 1930s Firmenich — before rose ketone discovery. Used in Chanel No.5 reformulation (replacing natural rose de mai). Described as "the crown jewel of all roses"
Vs. Natural Rose Absolute
~99% cost saving vs. Rose de Mai absolute · Same warmth and muguet character · Batch-to-batch consistency natural cannot offer · Halal status clearer
Shelf Life (sealed)
2–3 years sealed from manufacture · 12–18 months once opened with proper resealing · Oxidation of geraniol/citronellol = primary stability risk
Introduction

Gulab ki Khushbu — The Firmenich Rose

Of all the aromatic materials available to the Pakistani perfumer, few command the reverence of Rose Wardia — a name that whispers both poetry and technical mastery. Created in the Firmenich laboratories in the 1930s, this proprietary rose base has shaped the character of countless iconic fragrances across nine decades, functioning as a trusted substitute for the legendarily expensive Rosa centifolia absolute from Grasse. Its creation before the discovery of rose ketones (damascenones and damascones in the 1960s) makes it a testament to the ingenuity of classical perfumery: a rose base so complete and convincing that it has never been superseded, even after the discovery of more potent rose-character materials. Octavian Coifan of Perfume Shrine famously described it as "the crown jewel of all roses," while perfumer Arcadi Boix Camps called it one of "the classical and unsurpassed Firmenich jewels of pure creativity and sensitivity."

For Pakistan's vibrant fragrance community, Rose Wardia fills a critical need. In Pakistan, the cultural significance of Gulab (گلاب — rose) is profound: it adorns weddings (shaadi), Eid celebrations, Sufi shrine offerings at Data Darbar in Lahore and Abdullah Shah Ghazi in Karachi, and is central to the country's classical attar tradition. The word "Wardia" derives from the Arabic "ward" (وَرد) — rose — connecting this material to the deepest traditions of Islamic aromatic heritage. Whether one is crafting a traditional Gulab attar for local market, a rose-oud EDP inspired by Gulf fragrance houses, or a bridal fragrance for the premium gifting segment, Rose Wardia provides the professional-grade rose heart note that Pakistani consumers expect: the qualities they describe as مہکدار (mehakdar — fragrant), ملائم (mulaim — smooth, soft), and پاکیزہ (paakeezah — pure, refined).

Bio Shop™ Pakistan — Sourcing Note

Bio Shop™ Pakistan stocks Rose Wardia (WARDIA® 184036) sourced from authorised international distributors with documented Firmenich supply chain. All stock is accompanied by IFRA Certificate of Conformity (Reference 22496703, 51st Amendment, August 2023) available on request. Supplied as a neat pale yellow to amber liquid — no pre-dilution required for most applications. Use pure at 2–5% in DPG attar; 2–10% in fine fragrance compound. Visit bioshop.pk/products/rose-wardia for current stock and pricing.

Molecular Identity

Chemical Identification

Trade NameWARDIA® 184036 · Wardia BM (184212) · Rose Wardia
TypeProprietary floral specialty base — complex multi-component blend (not a single aroma chemical)
Manufacturerdsm-Firmenich (formerly Firmenich SA, HQ Geneva, Switzerland) — sole producer of original formula
CAS NumberMixture — no single CAS assigned · HS Code 3302.90 (mixture of odoriferous substances for industry)
EC / EINECSNot applicable — complex multicomponent mixture · FEMA: Not applicable (fragrance only)
Principal Component2-Phenylethyl Alcohol (C₈H₁₀O, MW 122.17) ~63% · HO-CH₂-CH₂-C₆H₅ · Soft rose, honey, warm floral
Secondary ComponentsCitronellol (18–22%) · Geraniol (10–15%) · Nerol (trace) · Farnesol (0.2–2%)
Trace ActivesEugenol (warm clove-spice depth) · Hydroxycitronellal (muguet lift) · Phenylacetaldehyde (honeyed-green nuance) · Captive Firmenich ingredients
Physical StatePale yellow to amber viscous liquid · Sp. Gr. 0.945–0.975 g/cm³ · Flash Point >100°C · Soluble in DPG, ethanol, oils
Synthesis (PEA)Friedel-Crafts reaction: benzene + ethylene oxide, acid catalyst, 40–60°C. Alternative: hydrogenation of phenylacetaldehyde
Synthesis (Terpenes)Geraniol + Citronellol: from myrcene (pine turpentine by-product) via hydroformylation/selective reduction. Also from citronella EO fractionation
Natural OccurrenceRosa centifolia (Grasse, France) · Rosa damascena (Bulgaria, Turkey, Taif) · Palmarosa EO (geraniol 75–95%) · Citronella EO (citronellol 35–45%)
Olfactory ReceptorsPEA: OR2T11, OR1L6 · Geraniol+Citronellol: OR1A1 (synergistic — "olfactory emergentism") · Eugenol: TRPV1+spice OR · Multi-receptor = perceived naturalness
Urdu / Pakistanگلاب کی خوشبو (Gulab ki Khushbu) · واردیہ (Wardia) · from Arabic ward (وَرد — rose) — the most blessed flower in Islamic tradition
Grade & Quality Profiles

Four Commercial Grades

Rose Wardia is a proprietary Firmenich base available in distinct commercial variants. Unlike single aroma chemicals, quality is assessed by odour evaluation against certified Firmenich reference standards and by IFRA Certificate of Conformity — not by GC purity %. Bio Shop™ Pakistan stocks the professional WARDIA® 184036 with full IFRA documentation. Understanding variant differences protects Pakistani formulators from adulteration.

Professional Standard · Bio Shop™ Grade
WARDIA® 184036
Original formulation · dsm-Firmenich · IFRA CoC Ref. 22496703 · August 2023
Primary Component (PEA)
~63%
Sp. Gr. 0.945–0.975 · Flash Point >100°C · Pale yellow to amber
"The gold standard for professional rose formulation worldwide. Opens fresh, dewy rose — develops full muguet-honey heart — settles into warm powdery dry-down. Bio Shop™ Pakistan primary stock. IFRA CoC available with every batch. Use 2–5% in DPG attar; 2–10% in compound."
Modified Variant · Rinse-Off Applications
Wardia BM (184212)
Firmenich modified variant · Adjusted stability for water-containing systems · Rinse-off optimised
Profile vs. 184036
BM
Slightly adjusted component balance for aqueous and rinse-off compatibility
"Wardia BM (Bloom Modified) is the second Firmenich reference (184212), optimised for shampoo, body wash, and high-water-content formulations where the original 184036 may have solubility challenges. Olfactorily near-identical; slightly different solubility/stability profile. For attar and fine fragrance, always use 184036."
Third-Party · Wardia-Type Equivalents
Rose Base Equivalents
Third-party interpretations · PerfumersWorld, Pell Wall (UK) · Varying profiles
Quality vs. Original
~80%
Variable — lacks proprietary Firmenich captive ingredients and formula-locking effect
"Third-party 'Wardia-type' or 'Rose Base' products from international distributors like PerfumersWorld and Pell Wall attempt to recreate the Wardia profile using non-captive ingredients. Olfactorily similar but lack the muguet depth and formula-locking cohesion of genuine WARDIA® 184036. Acceptable for learning; not recommended for professional production."
⚠ Avoid Without Verification
Adulterated / PEA Blends
Pakistan grey market · Pure PEA sold as "Rose Base" · Citronellol blends · Geranium EO substitutes
Authenticity
Unknown
Flat PEA smell · No muguet facet · No honeyed depth · No powdery warmth
"Common Pakistan-market adulterants: (1) Pure PEA alone — smells flat and one-dimensional, lacks muguet and spice. (2) Cheap citronellol+PEA blend — sharper, less round, no powdery heart. (3) Geranium EO — distinctly green, sharp, not rose. Always request IFRA CoC Reference 22496703 from your supplier. Blotter test: genuine Wardia develops honeyed-muguet heart within 30 minutes."
Dosage Science

Concentration Behaviour

Rose Wardia exhibits a smooth linear hedonic response: from subliminal naturaliser at trace levels, through a transparent rose presence at modest doses, to a full and dominant rose accord at higher concentrations. Unlike single aroma chemicals that can become harsh at overdose, the proprietary blend structure of Wardia 184036 maintains olfactory elegance across a wide concentration range. Its "formula-locker" property — Firmenich's term for how Wardia creates a cohesive, hard-to-deconstruct accord — activates at any dose, protecting the perfumer's creative work. Pakistani formulators are encouraged to start at 2% in attar or compound and adjust upward based on desired rose intensity.

<0.1% in CompoundSubliminal Rose Lift
Below conscious perception as "rose"; acts as a naturaliser for other florals — softens jasmine's indolic edge, deepens muguet accords, adds organic warmth. Ideal for soap bases and household products seeking background floral naturalness
0.1–0.5% in CompoundTransparent Rose Nuance
A transparent rose presence — round and warm, not dominant. Ideal as a secondary floral modifier in shampoos, body wash, and rinse-off personal care products. Lifts and unifies any floral composition without imposing its own signature
0.5–2% in CompoundClear Rose Heart Note
Clear, round, warm rose — the muguet facets begin appearing at ~1%. Appropriate for EDT, body lotion, home fragrance, and bakhoor bases where a discernible rose character is wanted without full dominance. The sweet spot for mass-market personal care
2–5% in CompoundFull Rose Theme
Full, expressive rose theme — complete muguet-honey depth, excellent performance. The primary range for Pakistani attar formulation (2–5% in DPG base) and premium EDP compounds. Provides 4–6 hours on skin; 3–5% is the classic Gulab attar territory
5–10% in CompoundDominant Rose Accord
Dominant, near-standalone rose accord — powerful and full-bodied. At 10% in a DPG base the blend reads almost as a pure rose attar. Ideal for concentrated attar roll-ons, rose-dominant EDP compounds, and premium gifting formats. IFRA Cat.4 limit remains very generous at this level
10%+ in CompoundIntense — Specialist Use
Very intense; near single-material rose character; captive rose base nature becomes evident with extended evaluation. Appropriate only for specialist concentrated attar, testing and evaluation, or applications where Rose Wardia is used as the product itself rather than as a component. IFRA Cat.4 limit (57.54% in finished product) still provides significant headroom at compound level
Sensory Analysis

Olfactory Evolution

Opening · 0–10 min
Fresh Rose Petal
The first breath of Rose Wardia is an immediate immersion in rose — yet not the sharp damascone-edged rose of modern bases. This is the classical elegance of Rosa centifolia: warm, diffusive, and gently intoxicating, with the quality of fresh-cut petals rather than rosewater. The geraniol fraction activates first, contributing a brighter, green-waxy rose bud freshness. In Pakistan's summer heat (Lahore 42°C, Karachi 38°C), the opening bloom is amplified — higher skin temperature accelerates the volatilisation of the lighter fractions, creating an intense, immediate Gulab ki Khushbu burst that Pakistani consumers experience as the quintessential fragrance of Eid morning. The opening is simultaneously familiar and distinguished — never synthetic, never flat.
Heart · 10–40 min
Muguet-Honey Warmth
As the opening notes settle, the full rose-muguet accord emerges — this is the signature phase that distinguishes Rose Wardia from any single-chemical rose material. The PEA backbone (~63%) provides a soft, honeyed, warm rose that perfumers describe as "rose with a heart." Hydroxycitronellal activates the muguet register in parallel, creating the sensation of a complete garden — not just rose, but lily of the valley growing beside it. Trace eugenol adds a warm, spicy depth that subconsciously evokes the natural complexity of Rosa damascena. Pakistani brides at their mehndi or baraat ceremony may already be wearing fragrances built on this very material without knowing it — the honeyed-spice warmth is the characteristic quality of classic Pakistani Gulab attar and is instantly recognisable as quality by Pakistani consumers.
Dry-down · 40–90 min
Honeyed Spice Depth
As lighter components evaporate, the heavier citronellol and farnesol fractions come forward, alongside any captive fixatives within the proprietary Firmenich formula. The character deepens: a richer, slightly honeyed rose with a warm eugenol spice accent reminiscent of an old-style Gulab attar in a traditional dastagir bottle from Lahore's Anarkali bazaar. In DPG-based attar formulations, the non-evaporating carrier extends this phase significantly — 4–6 hours of detectible rose character on skin at typical 2–5% attar concentration. Farnesol's fixative chemistry slows evaporation of lighter components through molecular interactions, creating a more sustained performance than pure PEA alone would deliver. In Karachi's coastal humidity, the slower evaporation rate extends this phase further, making the dry-down especially graceful.
Whisper · 2 hr+
Powdery Skin Warmth
The lasting impression of Rose Wardia is a warm, clean rose skin scent with a faint musky-honeyed quality. On fabric — a white cotton kurta or a shaadi dupatta — the dry-down can be detected the following day, making Rose Wardia an excellent choice for fabric fragrancing and laundry products in the premium segment. Pakistani consumers who wear rose-based attars or perfumes to weddings or Eid prayers appreciate this fabric-residual quality as a lasting reminder of occasion and quality. The whisper phase does not demand attention but rewards discovery: hours later, a soft movement of fabric will release a gentle, powdery rose warmth that is both comforting and unmistakably distinguished. This is the "formula-locker" phase — by now the rose character has become inseparable from the skin.
Rose Muguet Honey Powdery Warm Spicy-Green Rosa Centifolia Gulab (گلاب) Honeyed-Floral Classical Elegance Fabric-Residual
Formulation Accords

Three Complete Formulas

Three production-ready formulas from the Bio Shop™ Pakistan Rose Wardia reference document — exact weights, exact percentages. All ingredients available at bioshop.pk. Formula 1 is a DPG attar (no alcohol — halal for all markets). Formula 2 is a bridal rose EDP compound using Perfume Premix as the sole alcohol base. Formula 3 is a rose glow body oil — leave-on skin oil for the premium personal care market.

Gulab ki Rani  ·  گلاب کی رانی
Queen of Roses Attar · DPG-based, alcohol-free, halal · 100g batch · Roll-on dabba · Pakistani women, daily wear, Eid gifting
Rose Wardia (WARDIA® 184036 pure)5.00g  5%
PEA — Phenyl Ethyl Alcohol (pure)2.00g  2%
Citronellol (pure)1.00g  1%
Geranium Essential Oil (pure)0.50g  0.5%
Benzyl Benzoate (pure)1.00g  1%
Dipropylene Glycol (DPG)90.50g  90.5%
Method
Combine Rose Wardia, PEA, Citronellol, Geranium EO, and Benzyl Benzoate in glass vessel. Mix 5 minutes until homogeneous. Add DPG, stir gently 3 minutes. Seal and macerate 48 hours minimum before filling roll-on. Longevity: 4–6 hours on skin. Rose Wardia is used neat — no pre-dilution needed at this concentration. PEA boosts rose volume; Benzyl Benzoate provides balsamic fixation and extends longevity in Pakistan's heat. Target: Pakistani women, daily wear, Eid gifting, mehndi occasion.
Shaadi Rose  ·  شادی رُوز
Bridal Rose EDP Compound · Perfume Premix base · 100g compound · Gulf-export / Pakistani bridal / premium women's 25–45
Rose Wardia (WARDIA® 184036 pure)8.00g  8%
PEA — Phenyl Ethyl Alcohol (pure)4.00g  4%
Benzyl Benzoate (pure)3.00g  3%
Ethyl Vanillin 10% DPG0.50g  0.5%
Heliotropin 10% DPG0.30g  0.3%
Benzoin Essential Oil (pure)1.00g  1%
Linalool (pure)1.50g  1.5%
Geraniol (pure)0.50g  0.5%
DPG (solvent balance)81.20g  81.2%
Finished Bottle — Perfume Premix Only
EDP: 20g compound + 80g Perfume Premix  ·  EDT: 15g + 85g  ·  Parfum: 28g + 72g. Mature 4 weeks sealed, cool, dark. Longevity: 6–8 hours. Note: Ethyl Vanillin and Heliotropin are supplied as 10% DPG solutions — the quantities above are of the 10% solution. Actual actives: 0.05g Ethyl Vanillin + 0.03g Heliotropin. These add warm-sweet depth and powdery-almond warmth to amplify Rose Wardia's muguet-powdery character.
Gulab Body Oil  ·  گلاب باڈی آئل
Rose Glow Skin Oil · Leave-on luxurious body oil · 100g finished product · Premium personal care · Karachi/Lahore women's market
Rose Wardia (WARDIA® 184036 pure)3.00g  3%
Geranium Essential Oil (pure)0.50g  0.5%
Vitamin E Oil (pure)1.00g  1%
Sweet Almond Oil40.00g  40%
MCT — Fractionated Coconut Oil55.50g  55.5%
Method — Leave-On Body Oil
Blend MCT and Sweet Almond Oil in clean glass vessel. Add Vitamin E Oil and mix. Add Rose Wardia and Geranium EO last; stir gently until fully homogeneous (no heat required — Rose Wardia dissolves readily in oils). Bottle in dark amber glass dropper bottles. IFRA Cat.5A compliance: Rose Wardia at 3% in leave-on body oil is within the 14.69% maximum limit. EU allergen declaration required: citronellol, geraniol, eugenol, farnesol from Rose Wardia must be listed. Performance: silky texture, rose scent lasts 3–5 hours on skin; suitable for year-round use including Lahore and Karachi climates.
Synergies

Classic Pairings

Rose Wardia is one of the most versatile and forgiving materials in the professional palette — compatible with virtually all fragrance families. The following pairings represent the most commercially successful and technically validated combinations for Pakistani and Gulf-export formulation, drawn directly from the Bio Shop™ reference document.

Rose Accord Amplifiers
PEA · 2–5% → Amplifies rose volume; the backbone booster Citronellol · 1–3% → Freshens and lifts rose facet; rosy-minty sparkle Geraniol · 0.5–2% → Green-waxy rose bud freshness; brighter top Geranyl Acetate · 0.5–1.5% → Fruity-green rose top note extension
Oriental & Attar Base — Pakistani/Gulf Market
Vetiver EO · 0.5–1% → Rose-Oud accord (اناناس صندل style) — the essential Pakistani pairing Patchouli EO · 0.5–1% → Rose-Patchouli oriental foundation — bridal warmth Sandalwood EO · 2–5% → Classic Rose-Sandal accord — attar tradition Benzyl Benzoate · 1.5–3% → Balsamic fixative — longevity in Pakistan heat
Floral Structure & Heart Expansion
Hedione · 1–3% → Jasmine transparency + rose = diffusive floral accord Linalool · 1.5–4% → Fresh-floral lift; smooths and airifies rose Iso E Super · 2–4% → Woody depth — makes rose emanate from skin Bergamot EO · 2–4% → Mediterranean freshness; brightens top note
Gourmand & Oriental Warmth
DPG · Carrier for DPG attar formats — odour-neutral, halal Perfume Premix · Sole alcohol base for EDP/EDT spray formulas Geranium EO · 0.5–1% → Garden-rose naturalism; green complexity Ethylene Brassylate · 1.5–3% → Clean macrocyclic musk longevity base
Rose Materials Comparison

Rose Wardia vs. Alternatives

2-Phenylethyl Alcohol (PEA)
Single Aroma Chemical · C₈H₁₀O · Rose Backbone · CAS 60-12-8
Aroma vs. Rose Wardia
Soft, honeyed rose but one-dimensional alone — the backbone without the muguet, spice, or powdery complexity. Flat on blotter after 30 minutes
IFRA / Allergen
✓ IFRA unrestricted · Not EU allergen-listed · Low threshold ~750–1000 ppb
Use With Rose Wardia
Essential amplifier: 2–5% PEA + 3–8% Wardia → complete, powerful rose accord. PEA boosts volume; Wardia adds depth and formula-locking
Pakistan Application
Backbone of Rose Wardia itself (~63%); use alone only for budget attars where a simple, unpretentious rose is appropriate
Verdict: Best companion, not replacement. PEA alone reads as flat and one-dimensional to any experienced nose — Rose Wardia transforms it into something complete. Available at bioshop.pk/products/pea-phenyl-ethyl-alcohol
Citronellol
Acyclic Monoterpene Alcohol · C₁₀H₂₀O · Fresh-Rosy · CAS 106-22-9
Aroma vs. Rose Wardia
Fresher, slightly rosy-minty, lighter — the sparkle and top-note dimension of rose without the warm honeyed depth. One-dimensional fresh-rosy character
IFRA / EU Allergen
⚠ IFRA restricted in some categories · ⚠ EU Annex III allergen — must declare above 0.001% leave-on
Use With Rose Wardia
Excellent freshener of Wardia: 1–2% Citronellol + 3–5% Wardia → fresher, more vivid rose with extra sparkling top note. Cumulative IFRA calculation required
Pakistan Application
Valuable for summer rose attars where a fresher, less powdery character is desired. Adds the minty-green freshness of new rose petals over Wardia's warmer base
Verdict: Strategic companion — adds the fresher facet that Rose Wardia intentionally de-emphasises. Note EU allergen declaration requirement and IFRA cumulative calculation when used alongside Rose Wardia (which already contains 18–22% citronellol). Available at bioshop.pk/products/citronellol
Geraniol
Acyclic Monoterpene Alcohol · C₁₀H₁₈O · Green-Waxy Rose · CAS 106-24-1
Aroma vs. Rose Wardia
Green-waxy rose with a citrus tinge — brighter and more luminous than Rose Wardia but simpler; lacks the honeyed warmth, muguet depth, and powdery dry-down
IFRA / EU Allergen
⚠ IFRA restricted · ⚠ EU Annex III allergen — must declare above 0.001% leave-on · More potent than citronellol
Use With Rose Wardia
Used at 0.5–1% to add a green rose bud quality to Wardia's warmer character. Cumulative IFRA calculation essential (Wardia already contains 10–15% geraniol)
Pakistan Application
Valuable in body lotion and hair oil formats where a brighter, greener rose is preferred over a heavier powdery one; excellent in spring/summer personal care positioning
Verdict: A facet of Rose Wardia rather than an alternative. Together they demonstrate "olfactory emergentism" — combined PEA+Citronellol+Geraniol = rose that is more convincing than any alone. Always calculate cumulative IFRA when adding Geraniol to Wardia-containing formulas. Available at bioshop.pk/products/geraniol
Rhodinol
High-Citronellol Fraction · Natural Isolate · Creamy Rose Absolute
Aroma vs. Rose Wardia
Richer, creamier, denser — more absolute-like character. Heavier and more tenacious than Wardia; less of the muguet and spice dimension; more waxen warmth
IFRA / EU Allergen
⚠ EU allergen declaration required (high citronellol content) · IFRA category limits apply · Natural isolate — higher cost
Use With Rose Wardia
Complementary layering: 1–2% Rhodinol under 3–5% Rose Wardia → adds a creamy, absolute-like denseness to Wardia's elegant classical character
Pakistan Application
Premium addition for luxury Gulf-export rose attars and high-price bridal EDPs where maximum rose richness is required; adds the density of a natural absolute at more accessible cost
Verdict: A premium addition rather than substitute. Use Rhodinol to upgrade a Rose Wardia base toward a more absolute-like character in ultra-premium formulations. Available at bioshop.pk/products/rhodinol
Safety & Regulations

IFRA & Safety Overview

Educational summary of publicly available regulatory data as of 2024. Always consult the current IFRA Standards (51st Amendment), the supplier-issued Safety Data Sheet, and your regulatory advisor before commercial formulation. This document does not constitute regulatory or safety advice. IFRA limits are maximum concentrations in the final consumer product, not in the compound.
✅

IFRA 51st Amendment — Compliant with Generous Limits

Rose Wardia (WARDIA® 184036) is fully compliant with the IFRA 51st Amendment (June 2023, Certificate Reference 22496703). For fine fragrance (Category 4), the maximum level in the finished product is 57.54%. At standard EDP compound dosages of 15–25% in a finished product, even a 10% loading of Rose Wardia in the compound results in only 1.5–2.5% Wardia in the finished EDP — far below the Category 4 limit. Pakistani formulators can use Rose Wardia generously without IFRA compliance concerns at typical fragrance dosages. The certificate also details restricted substances present within Wardia at trace levels: citronellol (9.04%), geraniol (8.17%), eugenol (0.76%), hydroxycitronellal (2.59%), benzyl alcohol (0.15%), and cinnamyl alcohol (0.06%) — all within IFRA limits at normal dosage. Formulators blending Wardia with other citronellol or geraniol sources must calculate cumulative totals.

⚠️

EU Allergen Declaration Required — Plan for Export Labelling

Rose Wardia contains multiple EU-declarable allergens under EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009: citronellol, geraniol, eugenol, benzyl alcohol, cinnamyl alcohol, citral, and farnesol. At typical final product dosages in leave-on products (body lotion, EDP), these components will exceed EU declaration thresholds of 0.001% and must be listed on product labels in descending concentration order. This applies to all products manufactured for EU or UK export. Pakistani formulators targeting domestic market only are not legally required to follow EU allergen rules, but IFRA compliance is considered best practice. Consult an EU regulatory consultant for any export product portfolio. The allergen list is periodically updated — monitor IFRA announcements.

✅

Pakistan DRAP & Halal — Fully Permissible

No current restriction under Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) cosmetics guidelines. Pakistani formulators may use Rose Wardia freely within IFRA limits for domestic products. Halal status is permissible: Rose Wardia's principal components — 2-phenylethyl alcohol, citronellol, and geraniol — are synthesised from petrochemical feedstocks (benzene, ethylene oxide, myrcene from turpentine) or extracted from plant oils (citronella, palmarosa). The product contains no ethanol, no animal-derived fixatives, and no ingredients of concern under standard Islamic halal principles. It is not certified halal by a specific authority, but from a chemical origin standpoint meets criteria widely applied by Pakistani Islamic scholars for non-consumable products. Formulators requiring formal halal certification should request full ingredient disclosure from Bio Shop™ Pakistan and have it reviewed by their preferred halal certifying body.

🧪

Human Safety Profile — Well-Characterised Components

Rose Wardia's principal components are among the most extensively safety-studied materials in the fragrance industry. 2-Phenylethyl alcohol has established safety data across multiple regulatory frameworks; oral LD₅₀ in rats is approximately 1,790 mg/kg (low acute toxicity). RIFM safety assessments for all major components confirm acceptable safety profiles at typical use levels within IFRA guidelines. Flash point >100°C makes it safe for most product handling environments — not classified as flammable at room temperature. The restricted components (citronellol, geraniol, eugenol, cinnamyl alcohol) are present at concentrations below sensitisation concern levels at normal dosage. Avoid direct eye contact; flush with water if contact occurs. Use in ventilated workspace when handling neat product. PPE: nitrile gloves and safety glasses recommended for handling concentrate.

🌊

Environmental — Aquatic Toxicity Note

Citronellol and geraniol, both present in Rose Wardia, show aquatic toxicity in environmental screening assessments. At typical consumer product usage levels and standard rinse-off dilution, real-world aquatic load is very low. However, neat Rose Wardia concentrate should not be discharged directly to waterways — dilute waste concentrate before drain disposal. This consideration is particularly relevant for Pakistani formulators in Karachi (coastal proximity) and Lahore (near Ravi river basin). Both biodegradation and aquatic impact are minimal at product-diluted concentrations. Include environmental handling notes in your production area documentation as best practice, especially for EU-export registered brands with environmental compliance requirements.

🔬

Stability Precautions — Oxidation Risk Management

The primary stability risk for Rose Wardia is autoxidation of the geraniol and citronellol components upon prolonged exposure to air, generating peroxides and aldehydic degradation products (geranial, citronellal) that may cause skin sensitisation and alter the olfactory character toward harsher, more citrusy, less rounded notes. Mitigation: store in amber glass or opaque HDPE, minimise headspace in opened containers, and add BHT antioxidant at 0.05% in oil-based finished formulations for extended shelf life. In highly alkaline or acidic formulation environments (pH >9 or pH <4), trace ester components can hydrolyse slowly — conduct stability testing at 40°C for 12 weeks for any aqueous product incorporating Rose Wardia. If the material smells harsh, sharply citrusy, or develops a soapy/stale note — it has oxidised; discard or test carefully before use.

Handling & Storage

Storing in Pakistan's Climate

Temperature
Below 25°C ideal; 15–20°C optimal. Chemical stability good up to 40°C. Above 40°C accelerates oxidation of geraniol/citronellol components — always store in air-conditioned environment
Container Type
Amber glass preferred (UV protection) or opaque HDPE food-grade. Never clear glass or PVC. HDPE is acceptable for bulk storage. Avoid prolonged contact with PET plastics
Light Exposure
Primary degradation trigger. UV radiation accelerates isomerisation of geraniol to nerol and drives oxidative degradation. Amber glass provides best UV barrier. Never store near windows or in clear containers
Shelf Life (sealed)
2–3 years from manufacture date (sealed, proper conditions). Once opened: 12–18 months with immediate resealing after each use. Oxidation indicator: if aroma becomes harsh, citrusy, or soapy — the material has oxidised; discard or evaluate carefully before use
Headspace Management
Minimise air headspace in partially used containers — transfer to smaller bottles. Nitrogen blanketing ideal for larger volumes. Never leave a half-empty large bottle unsealed. Air exposure accelerates oxidative radical chain processes in geraniol fraction
Antioxidant Addition
Add BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) at 0.05% to finished oil-based formulations containing Rose Wardia for extended shelf life. This extends the useful life of body oils, attar bases, and any oil-carrier format significantly
Lahore Summer (May–Sep)
Critical: outdoor temperatures exceed 45°C; vehicles reach 60°C+. Store indoors in coolest room. Refrigeration acceptable — allow product to warm to room temperature before opening to prevent moisture condensation inside container. Use insulated boxes for transport between storage and workspace
Karachi Coastal Climate
High humidity (75–90% RH year-round). The sealed product itself is not significantly affected by humidity but label and container integrity require attention. Seal containers immediately after each use. Use desiccant packets in storage drawer/shelf. Check containers periodically for external moisture accumulation. For water-based formulations incorporating Rose Wardia, ensure solubilisation is complete before storage
⚠ Authenticity check: Genuine WARDIA® 184036 is a pale yellow to amber viscous liquid, Sp. Gr. 0.945–0.975 g/cm³. Blotter test at 1% in DPG: should open fresh-rosy, develop honeyed-muguet heart within 30 minutes, show warm powdery dry-down after 2 hours. A flat, one-note PEA smell at all stages = simple PEA substitute. Sharp green character throughout = citronellol-heavy imitation. Sharp, minty-green = geranium oil substitute. Always request IFRA Certificate of Conformity (Reference 22496703) from your supplier. Bio Shop™ Pakistan provides IFRA CoC documentation with every batch on request.
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rose Wardia halal? What is its exact synthesis origin?+
Rose Wardia is permissible under Islamic halal principles. The evidence: (1) The principal components — 2-phenylethyl alcohol, citronellol, and geraniol — are synthesised from petroleum-derived or plant-terpene raw materials. PEA is produced via Friedel-Crafts reaction of benzene and ethylene oxide (petrochemical origin), or via hydrogenation of phenylacetaldehyde. No animal inputs at any stage. (2) Citronellol and geraniol are derived from myrcene (a turpentine by-product of pine resin processing — plant origin), or from fractional distillation of citronella and palmarosa essential oils (both plant-derived). (3) The product contains no ethanol, no grain-derived or fermentation-derived alcohol, and no animal-origin fixatives such as civet, musk deer, or castoreum. (4) Farnesol (0.2–2%) is derived from plant sources such as litsea cubeba or palmarosa oil, or synthesised from geranylacetone — all permissible origins. (5) The natural PEA route (Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation via Ehrlich pathway) uses yeast as a biotransformation catalyst — permissible under the principle that fermentation producing a purified non-alcoholic fragrance molecule is acceptable. The synthesis route used by dsm-Firmenich for WARDIA® 184036 is chemical (Friedel-Crafts), not fermentation-based. Bio Shop™ Pakistan can provide manufacturer halal compatibility documentation on request for professional accounts.
How do I verify authenticity and purity of Rose Wardia purchased in Pakistan?+
Four practical verification methods are available without laboratory GC equipment. First, request IFRA Certificate of Conformity from your supplier — genuine WARDIA® 184036 will reference Firmenich IFRA CoC Reference 22496703 (issued August 2023 for the 51st Amendment). If your supplier cannot provide this document, do not purchase. Second, the blotter test: dilute approximately 1% in DPG and evaluate at 5 minutes, 30 minutes, and 2 hours on a scent strip. Genuine Rose Wardia opens fresh-rosy and dewy, develops a full honeyed-muguet heart within 30 minutes, and shows warm powdery dry-down after 2 hours. Common adulterants behave differently: pure PEA substitutes smell flat and one-dimensional throughout all stages; citronellol-heavy blends smell sharper and mintier with no warm depth; geranium oil substitutes have a sharp, distinctly green-herby character. Third, the density check: weigh 1.00 mL using a calibrated syringe — genuine Rose Wardia should read 0.945–0.975g per mL. A reading significantly outside this range indicates adulteration. Fourth, trust your nose: no substitute will develop the characteristic muguet-honey heart that distinguishes genuine WARDIA® 184036 from simple rose alcohol blends. Bio Shop™ Pakistan provides full batch documentation with every delivery.
How should I store Rose Wardia in Pakistan's hot and humid climate?+
Pakistan's climate requires active management of two distinct variables depending on your city. For Lahore's extreme summer heat (temperatures reaching 45–50°C outdoors in June-July): store Rose Wardia in a cool interior room in amber glass or opaque HDPE, tightly sealed. If refrigeration is available, use it — this is the best single action for longevity in Lahore. Allow the product to warm to room temperature before opening each time, to prevent condensation forming inside the container. Never store in vehicles during summer — car interiors reach 60°C+ which can degrade the geraniol and citronellol components within hours. Use insulated cooler boxes for any transportation between storage facility and workspace. For Karachi's year-round coastal humidity (75–90% RH): the sealed product itself is not significantly affected by external humidity, but container sealing and label integrity require vigilance. Seal containers immediately after each use using a proper lid — do not leave open even briefly. Use desiccant packets in your storage area to maintain low ambient humidity around containers. Check amber glass bottles periodically for external moisture accumulation and dry thoroughly before returning to storage. For both cities: always minimise air headspace in partially used containers by transferring to smaller bottles or using nitrogen gas blanketing for larger quantities. Under proper conditions, 2–3 years shelf life from manufacture date is achievable.
What is the correct usage percentage? Should I use Rose Wardia neat or pre-diluted?+
Rose Wardia is supplied as a neat liquid base and should be used as-is at the required dosage — no pre-dilution in DPG is needed or recommended for most applications. It is a complete blend already appropriate for direct incorporation at the percentages listed, unlike some single aroma chemicals (such as concentrated aldehydes or phenylacetaldehyde) that require pre-dilution for safety. For DPG-based attar formulation, use 2–5% Rose Wardia pure in DPG carrier — this delivers a full, wearable rose attar character on skin. For EDP compound formulation, use 2–10% Rose Wardia pure within the compound (which is then diluted in Perfume Premix for the finished spray). For body lotion and personal care, use 0.5–3% Rose Wardia in the final product. At these levels, standard 0.01g precision digital balances are adequate — no analytical balance is required. The compound level of 2–5% in attar is the "sweet spot" validated by Pakistani formulators: below 1% the rose character is too subtle for an attar product; above 7% in DPG the character becomes very intense and somewhat cloying without additional supporting materials. Regarding EU allergen considerations when export is planned: Rose Wardia already contains citronellol, geraniol, eugenol, and farnesol at levels that will exceed EU declaration thresholds even at a 2% compound loading in most leave-on formulations — ensure your label declaration process captures these allergens.
How is Rose Wardia different from buying PEA, Citronellol, or Geraniol separately?+
This is one of the most important questions for Pakistani formulators approaching rose for the first time. While Rose Wardia's approximate composition is publicly known (PEA ~63%, Citronellol 18–22%, Geraniol 10–15%), replicating it from individual components is technically impossible for several reasons. First, the captive Firmenich ingredients within WARDIA® 184036 — the specific hydroxycitronellal grades, the proprietary eugenol-containing fraction, and unknown fixative materials — are not available for purchase separately. These captives are precisely what create the muguet heart, the honeyed spice warmth, and the formula-locking cohesion that distinguish Rose Wardia from any DIY blend. Second, even with known component ratios, the interaction effects between specific grades, particle sizes, and the complex molecular environment create emergent olfactory properties — the "rose" perceived from Rose Wardia is greater than the sum of its constituent parts, a phenomenon perfumers call olfactory emergentism. Third, Firmenich's proprietary process for producing and blending the components creates a product cohesion that bench-blending from commercial ingredients cannot replicate. Conclusion: PEA, Citronellol, and Geraniol are excellent companion ingredients to add to Rose Wardia (amplifying volume, freshness, and green-rose facets respectively), but they cannot replace it. Always use Rose Wardia as your rose base and build around it with individual rose alcohols as needed.
What are the IFRA limits and EU allergen requirements for Rose Wardia?+
IFRA limits (51st Amendment, CoC Ref. 22496703): For fine fragrance (Category 4), the maximum level of Rose Wardia in the finished product is 57.54%. At a typical compound dosage of 20% in an EDP (i.e., 20g compound + 80g Perfume Premix), even a 10% loading of Rose Wardia in the compound results in only 2% Wardia in the finished EDP — far below the 57.54% limit. Pakistani formulators can use Rose Wardia generously without any IFRA compliance concern in typical formulations. Other category limits: body lotion/oil max 14.69% (Cat.5A), face moisturiser max 9.55% (Cat.5B), shampoo max 9.55% (Cat.7), reed diffuser max 13.47% (Cat.10A), candle no restriction (Cat.12). EU allergen declaration requirements (UK/EU export only): Rose Wardia contains citronellol (9.04%), geraniol (8.17%), eugenol (0.76%), hydroxycitronellal (2.59%), benzyl alcohol (0.15%), cinnamyl alcohol (0.06%), and farnesol (0.2–2%). All of these are EU Annex III declared allergens. In any leave-on product where the final concentration of Rose Wardia exceeds approximately 0.01%, one or more of these allergens will exceed the 0.001% leave-on declaration threshold and must be listed on the product label by INCI name. For Pakistan domestic market: no current equivalent requirement exists, though IFRA compliance is strongly recommended as industry best practice.
Which Pakistani consumer segments respond best to Rose Wardia compositions?+
Pakistani women aged 18–45 represent the primary demographic for rose-based products, with several distinct sub-segments. First, the bridal and gifting segment: Pakistani brides and wedding guests are the single largest consumer segment for premium rose fragrance — Rose Wardia-based compositions in attar or EDP format positioned for mehndi, baraat, and Eid gifting ceremonies have excellent commercial potential. Second, daily wear urban women in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Faisalabad who seek quality attar alternatives to expensive imported rose perfumes — Rose Wardia at 2–3% in DPG delivers a Gulab attar experience comparable to traditional premium attars at a fraction of the cost. Third, the Gulf-export channel: traders supplying Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain require rose-oud compositions for Arab markets where classical rose character is highly commercially valued — Rose Wardia is the professional standard for the rose component in this accord. Fourth, men's fragrance buyers: while Pakistani men generally prefer oud and wood notes, rose when anchored with vetiver or oud reads as masculine and dignified in the Islamic attar tradition — a rose-oud attar (3% Rose Wardia + 0.5–1% Vetiver EO) positioned for male daily wear at dargah visits and Jummah prayer has a genuine market. Regionally: Lahore consumers prefer heavier, more powdery rose accords anchored with sandalwood and musk; Karachi consumers lean toward fresher, slightly lighter rose-citrus combinations; Gulf-export buyers want dominant rose-oud depth with excellent sillage.
What Urdu brand names suit Rose Wardia fragrances? How does it perform in Pakistan's summer heat?+
Recommended Urdu naming vocabulary for Rose Wardia compositions draws on deeply resonant cultural references: Gulab (گلاب — rose), Wardia (واردیہ — from Arabic ward), Shabnam (شبنم — dew), Rani (رانی — queen), Mehak (مہک — fragrance), and Sufi poetic references to the rose as divine love. Example composition names from the reference document: Gulab ki Rani (گلاب کی رانی — Queen of Roses, for DPG attar); Shaadi Rose (شادی رُوز — Bridal Rose, for EDP); Wardia-e-Lahore (واردیہ لاہور — Rose of Lahore, for premium positioning); Shabnam-e-Gulab (شبنم گلاب — Rose Dew, for body mist); Gulab Bakhoor (گلاب بخور — Rose Incense, for home fragrance). For hot weather positioning, emphasise: Thandi Gulab (ٹھنڈی گلاب — Cool Rose), Baraf-e-Gulab (برف گلاب — Rose Ice). Hot weather performance: Rose Wardia performs excellently in Pakistan's summer climate. Higher skin temperatures in Lahore (42–45°C) accelerate the volatilisation of PEA and the lighter rose components, creating a more immediate and intense opening bloom on hot skin — a genuine selling point rather than a concern. However, faster evaporation means the top note is shorter-lived; ensure your formula's heart and base notes (vetiver, patchouli, benzyl benzoate) are robust enough to hold the composition for several hours after the initial rose burst departs. Increasing fixative components (Benzyl Benzoate from 1% to 2%, adding Ethylene Brassylate at 1.5%) compensates effectively for heat-accelerated top-note evaporation. In Karachi's humidity, the slower evaporation arc actually extends the rose perception — a natural advantage for leave-on products in the coastal city.
Complete Your Palette

Essential Companions

Aroma Chemical · Rose
PEA — Phenyl Ethyl Alcohol
Primary rose backbone amplifier: 2–5% PEA + 3–8% Wardia = complete powerful rose accord. Essential pairing
→
Carrier · Diluent
Dipropylene Glycol (DPG)
Primary carrier for DPG attar format. Odour-neutral, halal, food-grade. Essential for all Gulab attar formulas
→
Alcohol Base
Perfume Premix
Sole alcohol base for EDP/EDT spray formulas. EDP: 20g compound + 80g Premix. Bio Shop™ exclusive
→
Essential Oil · Base
Vetiver Essential Oil
Pakistan's most important rose pairing: 3–5% Wardia + 0.5–1% Vetiver = rose-oud accord. Classic Pakistani/Gulf attar
→
Essential Oil · Oriental
Patchouli Essential Oil
Classic rose-patchouli foundation: 4% Wardia + 0.5–1% Patchouli → bridal warmth, oriental depth. Gulf export staple
→
Aroma Chemical · Fixative
Benzyl Benzoate
Balsamic fixative: 1.5–3% extends Rose Wardia dry-down dramatically; warm resinous rose that survives Pakistan heat
→
Aroma Chemical · Rose
Geraniol
Green-waxy rose top: 0.5–1% adds brighter rose bud freshness to Wardia's warmer character. Note: EU allergen; calculate cumulative IFRA
→
Aroma Chemical · Floral
Hedione
Jasmine transparency + Rose Wardia = diffusive floral accord with exceptional tenacity. ISO E Super companion for modern rose-woody EDP
→
Full Reference Document

Dive Deeper — Read the Complete Guide

Everything on this page and substantially more — the complete history of WARDIA® 184036 from its 1930s Firmenich creation through its confirmed use in Chanel No.5 reformulation; detailed synthesis mechanism diagrams for PEA (Friedel-Crafts), geraniol, and citronellol; full structure-odour relationship analysis of the classical rose alcohol series; IFRA Certificate Reference 22496703 data analysis; complete EU allergen declaration guidance for Pakistani manufacturers exporting to Europe; natural vs. synthetic rose cost-in-use comparison with Pakistan market pricing examples; three complete Pakistani product concepts (Gulab ki Rani attar, Shaadi Rose EDP, Gulab Body Oil) with full accord maps; Islamic cultural heritage of rose fragrance from Hadith through Sufi poetry to modern Pakistani attar tradition; advanced Pakistani market segmentation analysis; and a comprehensive glossary of 16 key professional fragrance terms — all compiled in one complete professional reference document.

View Full Document
Browse Collections Aroma Chemicals Essential Oils Carrier Oils Fragrance Oils Perfume Oil All Collections →