MOLECULE

(E)-beta-Ocimene

(E)-Ocimene or trans-Ocimene, also known as beta-Ocimene, belongs to the class of organic compounds known as acyclic monoterpenoids. These are monoterpenes that do not contain a cycle. Monoterpenoids are terpenes that contain 10 carbon atoms and are comprised of two isoprene units. The biosynthesis of monoterpenes is known to occur mainly through the methyl-eritritol-phosphate (MEP) pathway in plastids (PMID: 7640522). (E)-Ocimene is also considered to be an isoprenoid lipid molecule. (E)-Ocimene exists in two stereoisomeric forms, cis and trans, with respect to the central double bond. (E)-Ocimene exists as a clear, transparent liquid. It is a very hydrophobic molecule, practically insoluble in water, and relatively neutral. It has a citrus, green woody aroma along with wth a green floral or woody taste. (E)-Ocimene is an approved food additive and is used in perfumery products. (E)-Ocimene occurs naturally in a number of plants and fruits, including basil, coriander, black currants mandarin oranges, kumquats, mangos, mint and oregano. It is also a constituent of the pheromones of several insects including Anastrepha suspensa, Euploea tulliolus koxinga, and Labidus species (CCD). (E)-Ocimene is one of several monoterpenes that are found in cannabis plants (PMID: 6991645).