Terpineol
[CAS# 8000-41-7]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Hydrocarbon compounds and their derivatives >> Cyclic hydrocarbon
• Name: Terpineol
• Synonyms: 2-(4-Methyl-3-cyclohexenyl)-2-propanol; 1-Methyl-4-isopropyl-1-cyclohexen-8-ol; 4-Menth-1-en-8-ol
• Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₁₈O
• Molecular Weight: 154.25
• CAS Registry Number: 8000-41-7 (8006-39-1)
• EC Number: 201-196-2
• SMILES: CC1=CCC(CC1)C(C)(C)O

Properties

• Density: 0.937
• Melting point: 18 °C
• Boiling point: 214-224 °C
• Refractive index: 1.481-1.486
• Flash point: 95 °C
• Water solubility: slightly

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319
• Safety Statements: P264-P264+P265-P280-P302+P352-P305+P351+P338-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411
Aspiration hazard	Asp. Tox.	1	H304
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361f
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H319
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1A	H315
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302

Discovery and Applications

Terpineol is a naturally occurring monoterpene alcohol that was first isolated and identified from pine oil in the 19th century. It is found in various essential oils from plants such as pine, eucalyptus, clove and cannabis. It belongs to the terpene family, which has a unique aroma and biological activity. Chemically, terpineol exists in several isomeric forms, the most common being α-terpineol, β-terpineol and γ-terpineol, each with its own unique aroma and properties.

The chemical structure of terpineol includes a cyclic monoterpene backbone with an alcohol functional group, making it soluble in alcohol and oils while giving off a pleasant floral or pine aroma. The versatility of this structure allows terpineol to perform a variety of roles in a variety of applications, from enhancing scents to providing various therapeutic effects.

Terpineol is highly regarded in the fragrance industry for its ability to add depth and complexity to fragrance compositions. Its floral and citrus notes blend well with other aromatic compounds, making it a valuable ingredient in fine perfumes and consumer products such as cosmetics, soaps and detergents. In aromatherapy, terpineol is exploited for its calming effects, promoting relaxation and stress relief when used in essential oil blends or diffusers.

In addition to its aromatic properties, terpineol has various medicinal properties, making it a valuable ingredient in pharmaceutical formulations. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it an effective treatment for skin infections and wounds. Terpineol's potential as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent has also been explored, highlighting its role in pain management and supportive care.

In industrial settings, terpineol can be used to formulate cleaning products, disinfectants, and air fresheners. Its pleasant scent not only masks bad odors, but also provides a natural alternative to synthetic chemicals, in line with consumer preferences for environmentally friendly and sustainable products. Terpineol's antimicrobial properties make it effective in household cleaners, ensuring an effective hygienic environment.

References

2024. Aroma Alchemy: Uridine diphosphate-dependent glycosyltransferases mediated regulation of fruit aroma and flavor biosynthesis. Phytochemistry Reviews.
DOI: 10.1007/s11101-024-10049-7

2024. A review on botany, ethnobotany, phytochemistry, ethnopharmacology and conservation status of Pinus gerardiana Wall. ex D. Don- The “elixir of life”. Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution.
DOI: 10.1007/s10722-024-02293-9

2024. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum postbiotics and thyme essential oil nanoemulsion-based edible spray: An innovative approach to extending shelf life of rainbow trout fillets. Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization.
DOI: 10.1007/s11694-024-03004-9