Most people get confused between Carvone and Carvacrol. Although these represent the same parent compound, their application might vary across industries. Let us understand the differences in their chemical structures, features, properties, and uses.
Natural and physical properties
Carvone belongs to the class of terpenes. It is a natural product found in spearmint, caraway, and dill. Moreover, Carvone contains a chiral center i.e. it's present in R and S enantiomers in natural products. The dominant enantiomer in spearmint is the R-isomer, while you can get the S-isomer in caraway. Carvone is in liquid form at room temperature with a boiling point of 2790C.
On the other hand, Carvacrol is a monoterpenoid phenol. You may find it in essential oils with its isomer thymol. In some plants, it is found in petals and sometimes in leaves. It is also liquid at room temperature but with a boiling point of 236–237 °C.
Overview of chemistry
Manufacturers sometimes convert carvone to carvacrol through an acid-catalyzed rearrangement process. They may use strong acids (sulfuric acid) which leads to the migration of the carbonyl group to form a phenolic structure. This phenolic structure is called carvacrol. Hence, carvacrol contains antioxidant and antimicrobial properties
Uses
Besides Carvacrol’s antioxidant and antibacterial properties, it is used in animal feed. Some industries also incorporate it in oral care products to promote health and hygiene. It is useful as a food preservative and flavoring agent. Moreover, carvacrol has woody, spicy, and medicinal notes that can be used in perfumery, toiletries, and alternative medicines.
On the other hand, Carvone has a long history as a flavoring agent in various foods and beverages. It is also useful in toothpaste and mouthwash. Moreover, shampoos, deodorants, and consumer products like air fresheners incorporate D-carvone. It has a wide application in oral care and grooming products.
Plus, its use in aromatherapy is getting worldwide attention. Lastly, carvone serves as a precursor in various syntheses of complex, chiral drugs.
If you need any of these products, don’t hesitate to call SBBLG! They are one of the best suppliers of carvone and carvacrol across India.
