Synthetic borneol

2025年1月3日
产品资讯

Synthetic borneol

Synthetic borneol is a chemically synthesized version of natural borneol, a bicyclic organic compound commonly found in plants like Dryobalanops aromatica and Blumea balsamifera. It is widely used in traditional medicine, fragrances, and as a flavoring agent. Below is an overview of its properties, uses, and synthesis:

Properties of Synthetic Borneol

  • Chemical Formula: C₁₀H₁₈Ocom
  • IUPAC Name: (1S,2R,4S)-1,7,7-Trimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-ol
  • Appearance: White crystalline solid
  • Odor: Camphor-like, minty, and refreshing
  • Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and ether
  • Melting Point: ~208°C (406°F)
  • Optical Activity: Synthetic borneol is typically a racemic mixture (equal parts of (+)-borneol and (-)-borneol), unlike natural borneol, which is often enantiomerically pure.

Synthesis of Synthetic Borneol

Synthetic borneol is typically produced through the catalytic hydrogenation of camphor or pinene. Common methods include:

  1. Camphor Reduction:
  • Camphor is reduced using sodium borohydride (NaBH₄) or other reducing agents.
  • The reaction yields a mixture of borneol and isoborneol.
  1. Pinene Conversion:
  • α-Pinene or β-pinene (derived from turpentine) is used as a starting material.
  • The pinene undergoes isomerization and hydrogenation to produce borneol.
  1. Catalytic Processes:
  • Modern methods use metal catalysts (e.g., nickel or palladium) for efficient hydrogenation.

Uses of Synthetic Borneol

  1. Pharmaceuticals:
  • Used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and cooling properties.
  • Found in topical ointments for pain relief and wound healing.
  1. Fragrances and Cosmetics:
  • Added to perfumes, soaps, and lotions for its pleasant aroma.
  • Acts as a stabilizer in cosmetic formulations.
  1. Flavoring Agent:
  • Used in food and beverages for its minty, cooling taste.
  1. Industrial Applications:
  • Used as a plasticizer and in the synthesis of other organic compounds.

Advantages of Synthetic Borneol

  • Cost-Effective: Cheaper to produce than natural borneol.
  • Consistency: Provides a standardized product with consistent quality.
  • Sustainability: Reduces reliance on natural plant sources, which may be limited or environmentally sensitive.

Comparison with Natural Borneol

  • Purity: Natural borneol is often enantiomerically pure, while synthetic borneol is a racemic mixture.
  • Efficacy: Some studies suggest natural borneol may have slightly better bioavailability and therapeutic effects.
  • Regulatory Status: Synthetic borneol is widely accepted but may require additional testing for certain applications.

Safety and Precautions

  • Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in appropriate amounts.
  • May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
  • Avoid excessive inhalation or ingestion.

Synthetic borneol is a versatile compound with wide-ranging applications, offering a practical alternative to natural borneol in many industries.

    Company: Hangzhou Fengjing Biotechnology Co., Ltd.
    Telephone: 0086-571-64652310
     Email: hwl5726@163.com
    Address: No. 8 Zhongtong Road, Eshan She Ethnic Township, Tonglu County, Zhejiang Province