7439

Carvone, a type of p-menthane monoterpenoid, is composed of a cyclohex-2-enone ring with methyl and isopropenyl groups at the 2nd and 5th positions, respectively. It plays a role as an allergen and belongs to the carvone family, known for its anti-fungal properties in plants. Naturally occurring in various species like Tanacetum vulgare and Lindera erythrocarpa, carvone is also produced by Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a type of yeast. This compound is part of the larger terpenoid family and is predominantly found in essential oils, especially those extracted from caraway seeds, spearmint, and dill. Carvone has significant applications in the food and flavor industry. R-(−)-Carvone, for instance, is utilized in air fresheners and various aromatherapy and alternative medicine products due to its presence in essential oils. S-(+)-Carvone has been observed to reduce weight gain in mice on high-fat diets. In the realm of food, carvone is crucial for the distinctive flavors of caraway, dill, and spearmint, and has been used in culinary practices for thousands of years. Notable examples include Wrigley's Spearmint Gum and spearmint-flavored Life Savers, which use natural spearmint oil from Mentha spicata. Caraway seed, extracted with alcohol, is a key ingredient in the European beverage Kümmel. In agriculture, S-(+)-Carvone is applied to deter premature sprouting in stored potatoes, particularly in the Netherlands where it's sold under the brand name Talent. For insect control, R-(−)-Carvone has gained approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a mosquito repellent.

GHS Hazard Statements

H317: May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]

Chemical and Physical Properties

Source: PubChem