Part 1: The Basics of Essential Oil Chemistry
Oils high in monoterpene phenols: Thyme, Oregano, Clove, Cinna-
mon Bark, and Basil
3.8 PHENYLPROPENES
A phenylpropene group is
characterized by a carbon in
a benzene ring bonded to a
second carbon that is then
bonded to a third carbon with
a double bond (see figures
Figure 3.11: A phenylpropene group
3.11 and 3.12). The third carbon
is single bonded to a fourth
carbon at the end of the
chain. Phenylpropenes
are
usually found
in
monoterpene
compounds, but they
are
not
common
in
most
essential
oils. Anethole and
chavicol (also known
Figure 3.8: An example of a phenylpropene g
roup in
the compound anethole, the primary c
onstituent of
as estragole) are the
Fennel oil. Note that anethole also has an ether
two most common
group.
phenylpropenes.
Properties of Phenylpropene Containing Constituents
Aromatic: Energizing aroma
Topical: Support overall skin health and appearance
Internal: May support the cardiovascular system and promote
healthy blood flow*
Oils high in monoterpene phenylpropenes: Fennel, Myrtle, Anise,
Star Anise, and Basil
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