MOLECULE

7-Methoxycoumarin

7-Methoxycoumarin or Herniarin, also known as ayapanin is a methoxy derivative of coumarin or a methyl derivative of umbelliferone. It belongs to the class of organic compounds known as coumarins and derivatives. These are polycyclic aromatic compounds containing a 1-benzopyran moiety with a ketone group at the C2 carbon atom (1-benzopyran-2-one). 7-Methoxycoumarin is a neutral, hydrophobic molecule that is not soluble in water. It exists as a white to pale yellow powder. It has a pleasant balsamic, sweet or tonka taste/odor. 7-Methoxycoumarin is used as a scent or aroma agent in perfumes, lotions, facial moisturizers, hand creams, hair conditioners, household aerosols, lip balms and baby oils. 7-Methoxycoumarin occurs naturally in many plants and foods and has been detected, but not quantified in, several different plants, such as hemp, barley, tarragons, roman camomiles, fruits, and wild celeries. This could make 7-methoxycoumarin a potential biomarker for the consumption of these foods.