The properties of Monoterpenes
Monoterpenes are a class of terpenes that consist of two isoprene units and have the molecular formula C10H16. Monoterpenes may be linear (acyclic) or contain rings (monocyclic and bicyclic). Modified terpenes, such as those containing oxygen functionality or missing a methyl group, are called monoterpenoids. Monoterpenes and monoterpenoids are diverse. They have relevance to the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, agricultural, and food industries.
Selected Monoterpenes and Monoterpenoids.
- Myrcene is an acyclic monoterpene, an alkene hydrocarbon. Scent: musky, herbal, earthy scent with hint of cloves. Benefits: relaxing, supports sleep, known antioxidant.
- Menthol is a monocyclic monoterpenoid.
- D-Limonene is a monocyclic monoterpene. Scent: citrus. Benefits: mood enhancer, stress reliever.
- Carvone is a monoterpenoid.
- Hinokitiol is a monoterpenoid, a tropolone derivative.
- Linalool is an acyclic monoterpenoid. Scent: floral with a hint of spice and lavender. Benefits: mood enhancement, anti-microbial, immune system support, stress reducer.
- Alpha-Pinene is a bicyclic monoterpene chemical compound. Scent: pine. Benefits: promotes alertness and memory retention.
Bicyclic monoterpenes include carene, sabinene, camphene, and thujene. Camphor, borneol, eucalyptol and ascaridole are examples of bicyclic monoterpenoids containing ketone, alcohol, ether, and bridging peroxide functional groups, respectively. Umbellulone is another example of bicyclic monoterpene ketone.
