Methyl Chavicol (Estragole), the main compound of Vietnamese basil
1. Introduction to Methyl Chavicol.
Methyl chavicol, also known as Estragole, or p-allylanisol, is an organic compound found in essential oils extracted from some plants of the Lamiaceae family. It belongs to a group of compounds called monoterpenes. Methyl Chavicol has a characteristic scent and sweet taste.
2. Characteristics of Methyl Chavicol
The chemical formula of Methyl Chavicol is C10H12O, with a molecular structure consisting of a methyl group (-CH3) attached to the benzene ring and an ethenyl group (-CH=CH2).
Methyl Chavicol is the double bond isomer of anethol (which is the main compound in anise essential oil). Under normal conditions, it is a colorless to pale yellow liquid.
- Molecular weight: 148.20 g/mol
- IUPAC name: 1-methoxy-4-prop-2-enylbenzene
- CAS number: 140-67-0
- Boiling point: 216 °C at 764 mm Hg
- Gram molecules: 148.2 g/mol
- Density: 0.946 g/cm3
3. Methyl Chavicol in nature
Methyl Chavicol is found in many plants of the Lamiaceae family, the most abundant of which are lemon basil, sweet basil…
Lemon basil ((Plectranthus amboinicus)) is grown everywhere in Vietnam, used for its leaves as a spice, with a pleasant scent like lemon.
Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a plant whose tops and leaves are eaten as a vegetable in Vietnam. The tree is popular in the market and is grown in many places, creating high economic value for many families. Methyl Chavicol content in Vietnamese basil reaches over 80%.
Anise (Illicium verum) is a special plant in Vietnam with a large growing area in the northern mountainous provinces, especially Lang Son province. Anise is a sought-after spice around the world. Anise essential oil has an Anethol content of over 85%, a double bond isomer of Methyl Chavicol (Estragole).
4. Application of Methyl Chavicol.
– In cuisine: Methyl Chavicol creates a characteristic flavor and scent, creating an appeal to the taste, so the compound is used in many foods. Besides, spices and essential oils containing Methyl Chavicol are often used in cooking, helping to enhance flavor and add aroma to dishes.
– In medicine: Methyl Chavicol is used in herbal medicines and pharmaceuticals. It has antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties. Therefore, the compound is used in medicine to treat symptoms such as colds, sore throats or treat open wounds.
– In the cosmetic industry: Thanks to its inherent medicinal properties, Methyl Chavicol is widely used in the production of cosmetics and personal care products such as perfume, soap, lotion, toothpaste… The fragrance of Methyl Chavicol, is used as an important ingredient in creating products with characteristic scents and attracting customers.
5. Basil essential oil at VIPSEN Essential Oil Factory.
VIPSEN is one of the leading researchers and producers of natural essential oils in Vietnam. Essential oil products are produced using advanced methods, achieving high quality with 100% natural ingredients, without additives or mixtures.
Basil essential oil products, containing a high Methyl Chavicol content of over 80%, are produced by VIPSEN with selected raw materials, from famous basil growing areas in Vietnam, especially Phu Xuyen, Hanoi. The production process from planting and harvesting raw materials to producing and preserving finished products is always closely monitored by a team of experienced experts and technicians. VIPSEN’s basil essential oil products are not only popular in Vietnam but are loved all over the world.
For further information, please contact:
Phone number/Whatsapp/Zalo/Wechat: +84 868 855 086
Email: Export@Vipsen.vn
Address: D7-TT9, Forosa street, Xuan Phuong new urban area, Xuan Phuong, Nam Tu Liem, Hanoi
Factory address: Bai Dai, Tien Xuan, Thach That, Hanoi.
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