Bisabolol

Bisabolol, a natural sesquiterpene alcohol, present in cannabis is known for its sweet floral aroma and is a primary constituent of German chamomile and Myoporum crassifolium essential oils. It’s recognized for its anti-irritant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, making it a valuable component in cosmetics and skin care products for its healing benefits. The compound also enhances the absorption of other molecules in topical formulations.

Properties of Bisabolol

• Natural monocyclic sesquiterpene alcohol
• Primary constituent of German chamomile and Myoporum crassifolium essential oils
• Poorly soluble in water and glycerine, but soluble in ethanol
• Has a weak sweet floral aroma
• Used in fragrances and cosmetics for skin healing properties

Chemical Composition of Bisabolol

• Is a colorless viscous oil
• Enantiomer α-(+)-bisabolol is rare
• Synthetic bisabolol is usually a racemic mixture
• Responsible for the aroma of chamomile flowers
• Scent likened to apples, sugar, and honey

Medical Uses of Bisabolol

• Anti-irritant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial properties
• Enhances percutaneous absorption of certain molecules
• Used as a penetration enhancer in topical formulations
• Compounded with tretinoin for acne treatment
• Known for reducing wrinkles, skin toughness, and repairing sun-damaged skin

Related Compounds to Bisabolol

• β-Bisabolol is structurally related
• Differs only in the position of the tertiary alcohol functional group
• Used in various fragrances
• Demonstrated to have skin healing properties
• Has been used in cosmetics for hundreds of years

References

• Rohstoff-Lexikon Bisabolol
• Bisabolol (in English)
• Terpenes in Ullmanns Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry
• Tretinoin 0.5 mg/g and α-Bisabolol 1 mg/g Gel
• Studies on the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of bisabolol

Bisabolol Data Sources