Page 102 - Pharmacognosy-I (02-06-06-102)
P. 102
These constituents comprise about 99% on the oil, but they do
not account for the characteristic fresh fruity note of clove oil.
This is due to several minor constituents especially methylamyl
ketone. Volatile oil of clove is heavier than water because it
contains high percentage of oxygenated compounds.
2- 10-13% hydrolysable tannin.
OH
OCH3
CH2CH = CH2
Eugenol
Uses:
Clove is used as carminative and flavouring agent. Almost
65% of the world supply of cloves is smoked, ground and mixed
with tobacco in cigarettes.
Oil of clove is used in dentistry as local analgesic. It is
commonly sold in the retail pharmacy as a toothache remedy.
Clove oil is also employed as a flavouring agent, an antiseptic
and a carminative.
Tests for Identity:
1- Extract a little of powdered clove with water, filter, to the
filtrate add few drops of ferric chloride T.S., a deep blue
colour is produced.
-127-