Cedrol

Cedrol is a sesquiterpene alcohol found in the essential oil of various plants including cedar trees. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid that is insoluble in water but soluble in alcohol and other organic solvents. Cedrol has a woody, balsamic aroma and is used in the fragrance industry and in traditional medicine.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Cedrol is a sesquiterpene, which means it is a type of terpene that consists of three isoprene units and has the molecular formula C15H26O. It is a chiral molecule with four stereoisomers. The structure of cedrol includes a cyclohexane ring substituted with three methyl groups, a hydroxyl group, and a 2,3-dimethylhept-2-ene side chain.

Cedrol has a boiling point of 274-275 °C and a melting point of 86-87 °C. It is insoluble in water but soluble in alcohol and other organic solvents.

Sources

Cedrol is found in the essential oil of various plants including cedar trees such as Cedrus atlantica, Cedrus deodara, and Juniperus virginiana. It is also found in the essential oil of rosemary and lavender.

Uses

Cedrol is used in the fragrance industry due to its woody, balsamic aroma. It is used in the formulation of perfumes, soaps, detergents, and other cosmetic products.

In traditional medicine, cedrol is used for its sedative and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used in aromatherapy for its calming and relaxing effects.

Health Effects

Cedrol has been studied for its potential health benefits. Some studies suggest that it may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects and to understand the mechanisms involved.

See Also

• Terpene
• Essential oil
• Cedar
• Aromatherapy