Compound Monograph
Benzyl alcohol
Benzyl alcohol is a simple aromatic alcohol that occurs naturally in many essential oils and floral scents.
Classification
Benzyl alcohol is an aromatic alcohol, part of the phenolics class. Antioxidant compounds built around one or more phenol rings — the flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, coumarins, and pigments behind much of a plant's protective chemistry.
Where Does It Come From? (4)
Benzyl alcohol is a naturally occurring aromatic alcohol, found in Jasmine, Ylang-ylang, Tolu and Peru balsams and 1 other source. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Benzyl alcohol is a colourless aromatic alcohol found naturally in the essential oils of jasmine, ylang-ylang and a number of balsams and fruits, and it contributes to their characteristic floral, slightly sweet aroma. It is widely used as a fragrance ingredient, solvent and preservative, and as a mild local anaesthetic in some topical products.
Toxicity & Safety
Acute toxicity is low and benzyl alcohol is generally well tolerated in the small amounts found in foods and cosmetics. It can cause skin or mucous-membrane irritation in concentrated form, and it is a recognised contact allergen for a minority of people. Benzyl alcohol is not recommended as a preservative in products intended for newborn infants, in whom it has been linked to toxicity at high exposures.