Terpinen-4-ol is an isomer of terpineol with the chemical formula C10H18O. A primary constituent of tea tree oil,[1] it is obtained as an extract from the leaves, branches, and bark of Melaleuca alternifolia Cheel.[2][3][4] 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.[2] It may be a factor in the contact dermatitis of tea tree oil when used topically.[2][3]
Terpinen-4-ol can be synthesized from terpinolene (1) by photooxidation, reduction of the resulting hydroperoxide (2), and selective hydrogenation of the terminal double bond in 3.
References
^"Tea tree oil". Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), National Library of Medicine, US National Institutes of Health. 3 December 2018. Retrieved 31 July 2019.
^ abc"Tea tree oil". Drugs.com. 17 June 2019. Retrieved 31 July 2019.