Part 1: The Basics of Essential Oil Chemistry
Oils high in sesquiterpene alcohols: Sandalwood, Vetiver,
Cedarwood, and Patchouli
3.2 ALDEHYDES
An aldehyde is a molecule with
an aldehyde group. An aldehyde
group is characterized by a carbon
Figure 3.3: An aldehyde group
double bonded to an oxygen (see
figures 3.3 and 3.4), where the
same carbon atom is also bonded to both a hydrogen (not shown) and
another carbon in the molecule’s main backbone. In general, aldehyde
molecules have names ending with the suffix –al or –aldehyde. For
instance, geranial, neral,
cinnamaldehyde, cuminal,
and decenal are examples
of monoterpene aldehydes.
Santalal, farnesal, and
valeranal are examples of
sesquiterpene aldehydes.
Figure 3.4: An example of an aldehyde g
roup
Sesquiterpene aldehydes
in the compound terpinen-7-al, a monoterpene
aldehyde found in cumin e
ssential oil
are far less common than
monoterpene aldehydes.
Properties of Aldehyde Containing Constituents
Aromatic: Calming, relaxing, and protecting
Topical: May reduce the appearance of blemishes, keep skin
looking healthy, support oral health and hygiene, and provide a
warming sensation to the skin
Internal: Supports the health of the cardiovascular, digestive,
immune, and nervous systems. Many essential oils high in
aldehydes are also known to support healthy metabolism.*
Oils high in monoterpene aldehydes: Cassia, Cinnamon, Melissa,
Lemongrass, and Lime
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