Page 33 - phytochemistry I - PharmD Clinical
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- It is very flammable, burning with a smoky flame, so care should be taken
when melting it.
- It is soluble in alcohol, ether, benzene and chloroform.
Composition:
- Colophony contains about 90% resin acids.
- Before distillation it contains the diterpene acids ( C-20 ) d- and l-
pimaric acids.
- During distillation l-pimaric acid isomerises into Abietic acid about 93%.
- Inert substances ( mixed resins called Resenes ), esters of fatty acids
and others.
Uses:
• Rosin consists mainly of abietic acid, and combines with caustic
alkalis to form salts (rosinates or pinates) that are known as rosin
soaps.
• Rosin is largely employed in making varnishes, sealing wax and
various adhesives.
• In cosmetics: mascaras, lipsticks, eye shadows, and nail varnish.
• Adhesives (e.g. sticking plasters and tapes, glues), as well as floor
covering.
• Diuretic in veterinary medicine.
• Ingredient in oint. For dermatitis & psoriasis.
• Ingredient in some collodion & adhesive plasters.
• Important starting material for the commercial synthesis of many
compounds ex. Camphor.
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