Borneol
[CAS# 507-70-0]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Synthetic anti-infective drugs >> Disinfectant antiseptic
• Name: Borneol
• Synonyms: Endo-1,7,7-trimethyl-bicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-ol
• Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₁₈O
• Molecular Weight: 154.25
• CAS Registry Number: 507-70-0
• EC Number: 208-080-0
• SMILES: CC1(C2CCC1(C(C2)O)C)C

Properties

• Water solubility: insoluble
• Density: 1.0±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*
• Melting point: 206-209 °C (Expl.)
• alpha: 20 ° (Expl.)
• Index of Refraction: 1.502, Calc.^*
• Boiling Point: 212.0±0.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*, 212 °C (Expl.)
• Flash Point: 80.7±10.9 °C, Calc.^*, 65 °C (Expl.)

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS02 Danger
• Risk Statements: H228
• Safety Statements: P210-P240-P241-P280-P370+P378

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Flammable solids	Flam. Sol.	2	H228
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411
Flammable solids	Flam. Sol.	1	H228
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	2	H371
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Flammable liquids	Flam. Liq.	2	H225
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319

• Transport Information: UN 1312

Discovery and Applications

Borneol is a naturally occurring bicyclic monoterpene alcohol with a distinctive camphor-like odor. It is found in essential oils of several plants, particularly in the genus *Dryobalanops* (a tree species found in Southeast Asia) and *Artemisia*. Borneol has been used in traditional medicine and various industrial applications for centuries. It is chemically related to camphor and shares similar properties, but its uses and characteristics set it apart.

The discovery and use of borneol can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where it was highly valued in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. It was included in many herbal formulations due to its purported medicinal properties, such as promoting circulation and relieving pain. Over the centuries, borneol has remained a significant compound in the pharmaceutical and perfumery industries.

Borneol's chemical structure, which consists of a bicyclic structure with an alcohol group, allows it to have a range of therapeutic effects. Its cooling, soothing, and slightly analgesic properties make it useful in topical applications. It is often used in ointments and creams for treating conditions such as muscle pain, headaches, and joint inflammation. The compound is thought to promote blood circulation and reduce swelling when applied to the skin, which is why it has historically been used in traditional medicine for pain relief.

In addition to its analgesic properties, borneol is used as a natural insect repellent. Its distinct odor, which is similar to camphor, is believed to deter insects, making it a common ingredient in natural insect repellent formulations. Borneol is also included in products for its mild antimicrobial properties, as it has been shown to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.

In the field of perfumery, borneol is valued for its sweet, woody aroma, which is often described as fresh and balsamic. It is used as a fixative in fragrances, helping to stabilize and prolong the scent of the perfume. Its aroma is often blended with other floral and citrus notes to create complex fragrance profiles. Due to its distinctive scent, borneol is a key ingredient in many traditional and modern perfumes.

Borneol is also utilized in the production of various chemicals and materials. It serves as a precursor in the synthesis of camphor, another important monoterpene compound with diverse applications. The conversion of borneol into camphor involves oxidation and other chemical reactions, which are significant in both laboratory settings and large-scale industrial production.

Additionally, borneol is studied for its potential pharmacological effects, including its role as a possible central nervous system stimulant and its potential as an adjunct in certain drug formulations. It has been explored in preclinical studies for its ability to enhance drug absorption or act as a carrier for other bioactive compounds, although such applications remain an area of ongoing research.

In summary, borneol is a naturally derived compound with significant applications in medicine, perfumery, and industry. Its therapeutic properties, particularly its cooling and soothing effects, make it a valuable component in various topical formulations. Its use as a fragrance fixative and insect repellent further adds to its versatility. As a compound derived from nature, borneol continues to play an important role in traditional and modern applications.

References

2024. Nasal administration of Xingnaojing biomimetic nanoparticles for the treatment of ischemic stroke. International Journal of Pharmaceutics.
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124830

2024. GC-MS analysis underpins ethnomedicinal properties of Rhododendron flower brews from Singalila Himalaya highlighting the anticipated biosynthesis pathways of the bioactives. Discover Food.
DOI: 10.1007/s44187-024-00168-7

2009. Experimental and ab-initio calculated vcd spectra of the first OH-stretching overtone of (1R)-(−) and (1S)-(+)-endo-BORNEOL. Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, 11(14).
DOI: 10.1039/b818432a