Compound Monograph
Ocimene
Ocimene is a volatile monoterpene with a sweet, herbaceous, woody aroma found in many plant essential oils.
Classification
Ocimene is a monoterpene, part of the terpenoids class. The largest class of plant compounds, built from five-carbon isoprene units — the essential-oil aromatics, resins, bitter principles, saponins, and plant sterols.
Where Does It Come From? (6)
Ocimene is a naturally occurring monoterpene, found in Mexican tarragon, Basil, Hops and 3 other sources. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Ocimene is an acyclic monoterpene that exists in several closely related isomeric forms. It has a light, sweet, herbaceous and slightly woody odour and occurs throughout the plant kingdom, including in basil (from which it takes its name), mint, hops, orchids and many flowers. Plants release it as part of their volatile bouquet, and it features as a minor component of many essential oils and is of interest in fragrance work.
Toxicity & Safety
Ocimene is a common, naturally occurring terpene encountered in foods and essential oils and is regarded as low in toxicity at those levels. It is volatile and flammable in concentrated form, as is typical of light terpenes.