Anethole (also known as Anise Camphor) is a well-known and sought after phenol methyl ether, a derivative of phenylpropene. Traditionally, Anethole was predominantly found in anise, fennel, and camphor. Today, commercial anethole is often derived from tree extracts such as turpentine.
Being versatile and diverse, this ether is most often used in the flavours and fragrances sector – but has also found multiple uses in cosmetics, perfumery, and pharmaceuticals.
Anethole in Flavours and Fragrances
With a strong and distinctive flavour and fragrance profile, Anethole is described as having the following flavours:
- Anise, star anise and fennel
- Liquorice
- Magnolia blossoms
It is known to bring a great sweetness to that which it flavours, offering 13 times more sweetening power than sugar. It is most often used in seasoning, alcoholic products, and confectionary.
Anethole in Cosmetics and Perfumery
Anethole is often used as a flavourant in cosmetic products such as oral hygiene products. Around the home, Anethole is a powerful insecticide.
Anethole in Pharmaceuticals and Health Care
Thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic properties, Anethole is frequently used in the pharmaceutical sector. Anethole is often used to promote cardiac health, drive oestrogen production, and strengthen the respiratory system.
The National Library of Medicine reports that it is “chemopreventive, antidiabetic, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and antithrombotic.” It is also known to be:
- Antimicrobial
- Antifungal
- Antioxidant
- Analgesic
Established in 1983, the Clive Teubes Group has been producing, distributing, and exporting superior quality products to both local and international markets for more than three decades. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, its offerings include Esters, Essential Oils, Natural Extracts, Citrus Oils, Flavours & Fragrances, Indigenous Oils, Exotic Oils, Special Extracts, and Aromatics. For more information, please request a product brochure from deliwe@teubes.com or visit www.teubes.com.