Compound Monograph
Methyl Eugenol
Methyl eugenol is a fragrant phenylpropene found in many essential oils that is also a recognised genotoxic carcinogen.
Classification
Methyl Eugenol is a phenylpropene, 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? (7)
Methyl Eugenol is a naturally occurring phenylpropene, found in Calamus, Basil, Nutmeg and 4 other sources. It is flagged as a known carcinogen.
Research & Evidence
Methyl eugenol is a phenylpropene (the methyl ether of eugenol) that occurs naturally in the essential oils of basil, nutmeg, calamus, bay, allspice and numerous other herbs and spices. It contributes a warm, clove-like, spicy aroma and has been used as a flavouring. It is also a potent attractant for certain fruit-fly species and is used in pest-monitoring lures.
Toxicity & Safety
Methyl eugenol is classified as a genotoxic carcinogen on the basis of animal studies, in which it produced liver and other tumours. Regulatory bodies have restricted or discouraged its deliberate addition to food, and exposure is treated as something to minimise. It naturally co-occurs in some culinary herbs and spices, where intake is typically low.