(1S,4R)-1-Methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-2-cyclohexen-1-ol

1-Methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-2-cyclohexen-1-ol, also known as myrtenol, is a terpenoid found in various plant species including Myrtus communis, eucalyptus, and bay leaves. This compound is used extensively in the fragrance industry due to its pleasant aroma and is commonly used in soaps, perfumes, and other cosmetic products. Myrtenol has a molecular formula of C10H18O and a molar mass of 154.25 g/mol. The compound has a boiling point of 215-216°C and a melting point of -15°C. Myrtenol is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a floral, spicy aroma. The chemical structure of myrtenol contains a cyclohexene ring, an isoprene unit, and a hydroxyl group. The compound has a unique asymmetric carbon atom which results in two enantiomers, (R)-myrtenol and (S)-myrtenol. These enantiomers have different odors and can be separated using chiral chromatography. In addition to its use in the fragrance industry, myrtenol has also been studied for its potential therapeutic properties. Research has shown that myrtenol possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. These findings suggest that myrtenol may have potential applications in the pharmaceutical industry.