Alphasantalol

Alphasantalol is a sesquiterpene alcohol found in sandalwood oil. It is one of the primary compounds responsible for the characteristic scent of sandalwood. The chemical formula for alphasantalol is C15H24O. It exists as two enantiomers, (1R,2S,4R)-alphasantalol and (1S,2R,4S)-alphasantalol, with the former being the more abundant and olfactively significant form in natural sandalwood oil.

The extraction of sandalwood oil, typically from the wood of Santalum album (Indian sandalwood) or related species, yields a complex mixture of compounds, with alphasantalol and its isomer betasantalol being the most important constituents for its aroma profile. Alphasantalol is known for its warm, woody, creamy, and slightly sweet fragrance. This aromatic quality has made it a highly valued ingredient in perfumery, cosmetics, and traditional medicine for centuries.

Beyond its olfactory properties, alphasantalol has been investigated for potential biological activities. Research suggests it may possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. However, much of this research is still in its early stages, and further studies are needed to confirm these effects and their therapeutic relevance. The sustainability of sandalwood harvesting is a significant concern due to overexploitation, leading to increased interest in synthetic alternatives or more efficient extraction methods to preserve natural resources.