alpha-Terpineol
[CAS# 98-55-5]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Alcohols, phenols, phenolic compounds and derivatives >> Halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives of alcohols
• Name: alpha-Terpineol
• Synonyms: 1-p-Menthen-8-ol; 1-Methyl-4-isopropyl-1-cyclohexen-8-ol; 2-(4-Methyl-3-cyclohexenyl)-2-propanol; p-Menth-1-en-8-ol
• Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₁₈O
• Molecular Weight: 154.25
• CAS Registry Number: 98-55-5
• EC Number: 202-680-6
• FEMA: 3045
• SMILES: CC1=CCC(CC1)C(C)(C)O

Properties

• Density: 0.936
• Melting point: 31-34 °C
• Boiling point: 214-224 °C
• Refractive index: 1.482-1.485
• Flash point: 90 °C
• Water solubility: negligible

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
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361f
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411

Discovery and Applications

The exploration of α-terpineol dates back to the study of essential oils in the 19th century. French chemist Auguste Cahours discovered and isolated α-terpineol in 1843 while studying the composition of essential oils from pine (Pinus) and other plants. This discovery highlighted its potential as an aromatic compound.

α-Terpineol (C10H18O) is a monoterpene alcohol that exists as a colorless liquid or crystalline solid with a clove-like aroma. Its molecular structure includes a hydroxyl group, which makes it highly soluble in alcohols and oils, but has limited solubility in water. This property makes it ideal for formulations that require a stable aromatic component.

α-Terpineol is a common ingredient in perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics due to its refreshing scent. It enhances floral and citrus notes, providing a soothing, pleasant fragrance. In the food and beverage industry, α-terpineol is used as a flavoring agent to add floral and citrus notes to products such as candies, beverages, and baked goods.

Alpha-terpineol has antimicrobial properties and is used in disinfectants and sanitizers. Its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses has led to its use in personal care products and household cleaners. Alpha-terpineol is used in aromatherapy for its calming effects. Alpha-terpineol is believed to reduce stress and anxiety, making it a popular ingredient in essential oils and relaxation therapy products. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of alpha-terpineol make it useful in creams and ointments for pain relief and skin care. It helps soothe skin irritation and relieves pain associated with minor injuries.

Alpha-terpineol is used as a solvent in the production of resins, inks, and coatings. Its solvent properties help dissolve and stabilize various ingredients, thereby improving the quality and performance of industrial products. It is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals, including terpenes and terpenoids used in the fragrance and pharmaceutical industries. Its reactivity makes it a valuable precursor in a variety of chemical processes.

References

2016. α-Terpineol Induces Gastric Retention of Liquids by Inhibiting Vagal Parasympathetic Pathways in Rats. Planta Medica, 82(7).
DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-104657

2010. Chemical composition and larvicidal activity of the essential oil of Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour.) Spreng against Anopheles stephensi: a malarial vector mosquito. Parasitology Research, 107(5).
DOI: 10.1007/s00436-010-1996-6

2010. Alpha terpineol: a potential anticancer agent which acts through suppressing NF-kappaB signalling. Anticancer research, 30(6).
URL: httpsSantander