Part 1: The Basics of Essential Oil Chemistry
Rosemary, Melaleuca, and Peppermint
Oils high in sesquiterpene ethers: Myrrh and Vetiver
3.6 KETONES
A ketone is a molecule with a
carbon atom double bonded to
an oxygen atom (see figures 3.7
and 3.8). The two carbons flanking
this carbon must not be bonded
to any atoms other than carbon
(or hydrogen). Ketone molecules
Figure 3.7: An ketone group
usually have names that end
with the suffix –one. For instance,
menthone and carvone are
ketones. Camphor is also
a notable ketone whose
name doesn’t follow the
normal
pattern.
Many
sesquiterpenes
contain
ketones.
Jatamansone,
rotundone,
mustakone,
faurinone,
davanone,
and
leptospermone
Figure 3.8: An example of a ketone group
found in Menthone, a constituent of
are the names of a few
Peppermint oil.
sesquiterpene ketones.
Properties of Ketone Containing Constituents
Aromatic: Some are energizing and uplifting, others are stabiliz-
ing and grounding. Certain ketones can support feelings of open
airways.
Topical: Repellant properties, may help keep the skin looking clean
Internal: Varies on a case-by-case basis. Most monoterpene ke-
tones support digestive, gastrointestinal, and nervous system func-
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