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1 A
Minimal Introduction to Chemistry
A very brief overview of the fundamental concepts of chemistry, selected
for the specific needs of the aromatherapy student.
2
Biosynthesis of Essential Oil Components
A closer look at the chemistry in the plant shows how natural substances
are linked with one other. Terpenes to carotenoids to cholesterol to
sexual and adrenal hormones. Cinnamic aldehyde to coumarin. This chapter
provides important fundamentals for Part II, The Biology of Essential
Oils.
3 Common
Essential Oil Components
The composition of Lavender oil is taken as an example. From leaf
alcohol (green leafy fragrance) to cis-octenol (strong mushroom odor) to
linalyl acetate (pleasant fruity ester odor) some 40 compounds are
discussed and their chemical formulae given to introduce the variety of
components that can constitute an essential oil. Approximately 20 of the
most interesting components are included in the olfactory toolbox in
their pure state to allow the student to experience the spectrum of
odors which all combine to make what we know as Lavender.
4
Secondary and Trace Components
Many natural fragrances derive their characteristics from compounds
present only in a very low concentration but with distinctive fragrance
impact. Their intensity makes these compounds especially interesting for
healing as well as perfumery. Trace components of Rose, Jasmine and many
others are discussed. Particularly striking examples are included in the
olfactory toolbox in their pure state.
5
Symmetry
Unlike most laboratory chemicals many essential oil components are
synthesized in the plant with specific symmetry constraints. Chirality
and enantiomeric purity, the latter a significant tool to ascertain
authenticity of essential oils, are discussed.
6
Analysis
Gas chromatography and other relevant methods are presented.
Possibilities and limits are discussed with respect to determining
authenticity and detecting adulteration.
7
Historical Development
The French approach to aromatherapy relies heavily on ascribing certain
properties to specific components of a given oil ('functional group'
concept). This approach is older as one expects and its development as
well as its obvious limits in the wake of new biological discoveries are
discussed.
8
Chemotypes
The chemotype concept of essential oils is a direct result of the ‘functional
group’ approach. The concept is evaluated, its strengths and
limitations discussed. Chemotypes on the market are discussed with
respect to how important and useful they actually are.
9
Literature
The literature dealing especially with the chemistry and the composition
of essential oils is discussed putting emphasis on more academic titles
normally not perused in the repertoire of aromatherapy.
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