Page 42 - Pharmd general phytochemistry I-Final2024_LEUCTERS

Uses:
 Eugenol is used as a good local antiseptic and analgesic. It is

used in dentist offices to make zinc oxide eugenol paste for
temporary fillings.

 Eugenol also makes a good local anaesthetic for temporary relief
from toothache pain.

 Eugenol is used for the manufacture of vanillin.

Determination of phenol content:
In a cassia flask, an accurately measured volume of the oil is shaken
vigorously with a portion of aqueous caustic alkali, and a further quantity
of the alkali is then added to bring the un-dissolved oil into the graduated
neck of the flask when the liquid have separated and become clear, the
volume of the oil insoluble in alkali is read, the volume of the phenol being
determined by difference.

2.6. Phenolic ethers:

Anethole

Source: Anise, fennel and star anise oils.
Uses:
Anethole is used widely for flavoring
mouthwashes and gargle.
Flavoring in foods and beverages.

� Anethole occurs as a white crystalline mass. Under the effect of
light, heat or air, anthole losses its ability to crystalize and
becomes a viscid yellow liquid.

� From this reason anethole must be stored in well closed container
away from light.

Estragole

Source: Bitter fennel oil.

Uses:
In perfumes and as a food additive.

- Estragole is suspected to be carcinogenic, as indicated by a report
of the European Union, Committee on Herbal Medicine Products.

- It is an isomer of anethole, differ in the location of the double bond.

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