Linalool

Linalool is a naturally occurring terpene that is found in a variety of plants and flowers. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a sweet, floral scent that is widely used in a variety of products, including perfumes, cosmetics, and cleaning agents.

Chemistry

Linalool belongs to the class of organic compounds known as terpenoids, which are made up of five-carbon isoprene units and have diverse structures and functions. It has a molecular formula of C10H18O and a molecular weight of 154.25 g/mol. Linalool can exist in two stereoisomeric forms, (R)-linalool and (S)-linalool, which have different scents and are found in different types of plants.

Sources

Linalool is found in over 200 species of plants, including lavender, coriander, rose, bergamot, and cannabis. It is also found in some fungi. The concentration of linalool in these plants can vary widely, and it is often extracted through steam distillation or cold pressing.

Uses

Linalool is widely used in the fragrance industry due to its pleasant, floral scent. It is a common ingredient in perfumes, soaps, detergents, and lotions. In addition to its use in fragrances, linalool also has several other applications. It is used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages, and it has been used in traditional medicine for its sedative and anti-inflammatory properties.

Health Effects

Linalool is generally considered safe for topical and oral use. However, some people may have an allergic reaction to linalool, resulting in skin irritation or contact dermatitis. In addition, inhaling linalool can cause respiratory irritation in some individuals.

Research

Research on linalool has focused on its potential therapeutic effects. Some studies suggest that linalool may have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-anxiety properties. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects and to understand how linalool works in the body.

See Also

• Terpenes
• Essential oils
• Perfume