Eugenol
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
Eugenol is a major component of clove oil, used primarily as an antiseptic in dentistry. It acts locally as an anesthetic but also as a caustic and irritant substance.
Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)
Eugenol, eugenol, allyl(1)methoxy(3)phenol(4), is an essential component of clove oil (Oleum Caryophyllorum). A colorless, strongly smelling liquid with a burning taste, specific gravity 1.072, boiling at 248°, it is slightly soluble in water but easily soluble in alcohol, ether, and glacial acetic acid.
Upon oxidation, it gives vanillin (p-methoxy-o-hydroxybenzaldehyde). It gradually darkens in air. A solution of eugenol in alcohol turns blue with diluted iron chloride solution. With alkalis, E. forms easily soluble phenolates. Heating with alkalis converts E. into isoeugenol.
It is most often used in the form of clove oil, which contains E. in amounts of 70-85%, as an antiseptic agent, mainly in dental practice. E. acts locally as an anesthetic, but at the same time as a caustic and irritating substance.
In microscopic practice, it is used for clearing preparations.
Related articles
Mentioned in
Cite this page
“Eugenol.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/eugenol/