Formula C10H16O Density 935 kg/m³ Pubchem 442495 | Molar mass 152.23 g/mol Appearance Colorless oil | |
 | ||
Pulegone is a naturally occurring organic compound obtained from the essential oils of a variety of plants such as Nepeta cataria (catnip), Mentha piperita, and pennyroyal. It is classified as a monoterpene.
Contents
Pulegone is a clear colorless oily liquid and has a pleasant odor similar to pennyroyal, peppermint and camphor. It is used in flavoring agents, in perfumery, and in aromatherapy.
Toxicology
It was reported that the chemical is toxic to rats if a large quantity is consumed. Asekun et al. found that the chemical content of Mentha longifolia L was decreased by the treatments at high temperatures, suggesting that the herb should be oven dried or thoroughly cooked before consumption.
Pulegone is also an insecticide − the most powerful of three insecticides naturally occurring in many mint species.
Plants that contain the chemical
