Eugenol

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Eugenol is a naturally occurring organic compound found in several plants, including clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, and basil. It is a colorless to pale yellow, aromatic oily liquid extracted from certain essential oils especially from clove oil, nutmeg, cinnamon, basil and bay leaf. It is present in concentrations of up to 90% in clove oil, and it is the compound responsible for most of the oil's distinctive aroma.

Chemical Properties[edit | edit source]

Eugenol has the chemical formula C10H12O2 and consists of a benzene ring that is substituted with a hydroxyl group and a propenyl group. It is classified as a phenylpropanoid, meaning it is part of a class of organic compounds that are synthesized from the amino acid phenylalanine. Eugenol is a member of the class of phenols, which are aromatic compounds containing a phenolic group.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Eugenol has a variety of uses in different fields. In dentistry, it is used as a local antiseptic and analgesic. It is included in some non-prescription products for temporary relief of toothache. It is also used in the production of perfume and flavorings due to its aromatic properties. In addition, it is used in the manufacture of synthetic vanillin, and is used as a starting material in the synthesis of other compounds in the chemical industry.

Health Effects[edit | edit source]

Eugenol has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some studies have suggested that it may have anticancer properties, although more research is needed in this area. However, it can also be toxic in large amounts, and can cause liver damage, nausea, diarrhea, rapid heartbeat, or convulsions.

Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]

Eugenol is biodegradable and is not expected to persist in the environment. It is not considered to be a significant environmental hazard. However, as with any chemical, it should be handled and disposed of properly to minimize any potential impact on the environment.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Resources[edit source]

Latest articles - Eugenol

PubMed
Clinical trials
UpToDate

AI tools[edit source]

Generative AI tools and links to learn more on Eugenol: ChatGPT - Bing Chat - Google Gemini. (caution advised).


Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD