Coumarin
| Coumarin | |
|---|---|
| Chemical name | 1,2-Benzopyrone, 2H-1-Benzopyran-2-one |
| Chemical formula | C9H6O2 |
| Molecular mass | 146.14 g/mol |
| Melting point | 71 °C |
| Boiling point | 301 °C |
| Density | 0,935 g/cm³ (20 °C) |
| CAS number | 91–64–5 |
| SMILES | |
| Disclaimer and references | |
Coumarin is a chemical compound. As a phytochemical is has been extracted from many plants, notably in high concentration in woodruff (Galium odoratum, Rubiaceae). It has a sweet scent, readily recognised as the scent of newly-mown lawns. It has clinical value as the precursor for several anticoagulants, notably warfarin. Another coumarin phytochemical derivative is called imperatorin. It is also used as a gain medium in a type of dye laser. Coumarin is slightly poisonous and should only be consumed in small amounts and after medical consultation, otherwise headaches or even mind-altering effects can ensue.
Synthesis
The biochemistry pathway for production of coumarin in plants is hydroxylation, glycolysis and cyclisation of cinnamic acid. Coumarin can be prepared in a laboratory in a Perkin reaction between salicylaldehyde and acetic anhydride.
External links
Categories: Organic compounds