Chapter 3: The Functional Groups and Their Functions
3.5 ETHERS
An ether is a molecule with an
oxygen atom bonded between
two carbons (see figures 12 and
13). In order to be an ether, the
two flanking carbons must only
Figure 12: An ether group
have bonds with other carbons
(or hydrogen). Ethers are sometimes found in the main carbon chain
or in ring structures, appearing as if an oxygen had replaced a carbon
in the backbone. They can also be found in the peripheral parts of
some molecules. Ethers are not
very common in monoterpenes.
The monoterpene ether eucalyptol,
also known as 1,8-cineole, is the
most common ether found in
essential oils. Anisole is another
common
monoterpene
ether.
Sesquiterpenes, on the other hand,
are more likely to contain ether
groups. For instance, curzerene and
Figure 13: An example of an ether
furanoeudsema-1,3-diene are two
group in the compound eucalyptol,
the main constituent of Eucalyptus oil
sesquiterpene ethers.
Properties of Ether Containing
Constituents
Aromatic: Soothing to the emotions, promote feelings of clear
airways
Topical: Surface cleaning properties, help improve the appearance of
skin
Internal: Varies on a case-by-case basis. Some ethers provide
antioxidant support and can also support proper immune system
function.* Other ethers are not recommended for internal
consumption.
Oils high in monoterpene ethers: Cardamom, Eucalyptus,
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