Name: Cis-3- Hexenol
Chemical Name: Cis-3- Hexen-1-OL
Chemical Formula: C6H12O
Appearance: Colourless Liquid
Molecular weight: 100.16
odour: Strong green grassy odour
Specific gravity: 0.845 to 0.853 at 25oC
GLC Purity: 99%
Refractive Index: 1.438 to 1.443 at 20oC
Colour: Colourless
CAS number: 928-96-1

Cis 3 hexenol is also known as (Z)-3-hexen-1-ol, a leaf alcohol, is a colourless oily liquid. It has intense grassy green odour of grass and leaves which is cut fresh. Most of the plants produce this in small amounts and it acts as an attractant to many predatory insects. It is an important aroma compound used in fruit and vegetable flavours and also in perfumes. Cis 3 hexenol is an alcohol and its esters are used for the fragrance and flavour for many products. Aldehyde cis 3 hexenal (leaf aldhyde) has a similar and stronger smell but comparatively it is unstable and isomerizes into the conjugated trans-2-hexenal. The alcohol is often used in fruity flavours and green tea flavours.

Presence in many fruits and vegetables

It gives a fresh green effect in the top note compound. It is a colourless liquid but sometimes pale yellow in colour. Its presence is found in many flowers, fruits and vegetables like carnation, gardenia, honeysuckle, hyacinth, osmanthus, apple, cherry, apricot, grape, kiwi, lemon, mint, melon, plum, orange, corn, strawberry, pumpkin, tea and tomato. It is used as a refreshing top note of floral fragrances like Muguet and Lilac. It is also used in many flavours like mint and different fruit complexes. Cis 3 hexenol is a powerful, slightly caramellic fruity, fruity green often compared to that of chrysanthemum foliage or wine leaves. Traces of this are used in fruit complexes like the artificial strawberry. It is there in many flower-based essential oils like lily and tulip and fruit-based oils like apple and cedar. Its positive character is found in some ales and lager to provide a fresh green note to the beer.

Useful Information

Cis 3 hexenol or Leaf alcohol is widely used to relieve swelling, itching, bleeding, minor pain and minor skin irritation like cuts, scrapes, insect bites etc. It is also used for problems caused by haemorrhoids like itching, irritation, discomfort and burning sensation. This can be used topically as per directions from the doctor. There are no reported side effects due to the use of Cis 3 hexenol or leaf alcohol. But it is better to consult a doctor if there are any signs of serious allergic reactions like rash, itching, swelling on face, tongue or throat, dizziness and trouble in breathing.