3-Butylphthalide
[CAS# 6066-49-5]

Identification

• Classification: Biochemical >> Chinese herbal medicine ingredients
• Name: 3-Butylphthalide
• Synonyms: 3-Butyl-1(3H)-isobenzofuranone
• Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₁₄O₂
• Molecular Weight: 190.24
• CAS Registry Number: 6066-49-5
• EC Number: 228-000-8
• FEMA: 3334
• SMILES: CCCCC1C2=CC=CC=C2C(=O)O1

Properties

• Solubility: 10 mM (DMSO) (Expl.)
• Density: 1.1±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*
• Index of Refraction: 1.525, Calc.^*, 1.524-1.529 (Expl.)
• Boiling Point: 312.8±31.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*, 404.5 °C (Expl.)
• Flash Point: 128.3±22.2 °C, Calc.^*

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P264-P264+P265-P271-P280-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P319-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319

Discovery and Applications

3-Butylphthalide, with the chemical formula C11H14O2, is a chemical compound belonging to the phthalide class, which is characterized by a benzene ring fused to a lactone structure. It is a derivative of phthalide where the hydrogen atom at position 3 of the benzene ring is replaced by a butyl group. The compound is primarily used in the production of specialty chemicals and in certain pharmaceutical formulations due to its unique chemical properties.

The discovery of 3-butylphthalide dates back to the mid-20th century when the general family of phthalide derivatives was studied for their potential applications in different industries, including the production of fragrances, food additives, and pharmaceuticals. The butyl group in 3-butylphthalide provides unique solubility properties, which influence its application in these various fields.

One of the most significant uses of 3-butylphthalide is in the fragrance and flavor industry, where it serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various aroma compounds. It is known for its pleasant, slightly sweet odor, which is utilized in the formulation of perfumes, cosmetics, and air fresheners. The presence of the butyl group in its structure contributes to the compound's characteristic aroma, making it a useful ingredient in these formulations.

In addition to its use in the fragrance industry, 3-butylphthalide has also been investigated for its potential pharmaceutical applications. It has shown promise in the field of neuropharmacology, particularly as a neuroprotective agent. Research has suggested that derivatives of phthalide, including 3-butylphthalide, may have potential in the treatment of neurological disorders, particularly those that involve oxidative stress and neuronal damage. While research in this area continues, the compound's ability to affect certain biological processes in the nervous system makes it an interesting subject for further study in neuroprotective drug development.

3-Butylphthalide has also been considered for use in other industrial applications. Its chemical stability and ability to act as a building block for other compounds have led to its inclusion in various synthetic routes for the creation of more complex molecules. These properties make it useful in the production of specialty chemicals, where it may serve as an intermediate in the synthesis of other pharmaceutical or industrial products.

In conclusion, 3-butylphthalide is a versatile chemical compound with applications in the fragrance industry, as well as potential uses in the pharmaceutical and specialty chemical industries. Its discovery as a phthalide derivative with a unique structure has allowed it to be employed in various formulations, and its potential pharmaceutical benefits continue to be explored.

References

2025. Butylphthalide mitigates traumatic brain injury by activating anti-ferroptotic AHR-CYP1B1 pathway. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 333.
DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118758

2024. Impact of NBP on acute ischemic stroke: Tracking therapy effect on neuroinflammation. International Immunopharmacology, 141.
DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.113217

2024. Efficacy and safety of DL-3-N-butylphthalide in the treatment of ischemic poststroke aphasia: A randomized clinical trial. Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology, 11(12).
DOI: 10.1002/acn3.52238