Terpinen-4-ol is an isomer of terpineol with the chemical formula C10H18O. A primary constituent of tea tree oil, it is obtained as an extract from the leaves, branches, and bark of the "tea tree" Melaleuca alternifolia . Despite considerable basic and preliminary clinical research of terpinen-4-ol and tea tree oil, its biological properties and potential for clinical uses have not been established as of 2019. It may be a factor in the contact dermatitis of tea tree oil when used topically.
Terpinen-4-ol occurs in Juniperus communis and is thought to be the reason why this wood is highly resistant to rot.
Synthesis Terpinen-4-ol can be synthesized from terpinolene (1) via photooxygenation, reduction of the resulting hydroperoxide (2), and selective hydrogenation of the terminal double bond in 3.
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