Safrole

Safrole is a natural organic compound classified as a phenylpropene, specifically 4-allyl-1,3-benzodioxole. It occurs naturally in sassafras oil and in trace amounts in several other essential oils. It is a colorless to pale-yellow oily liquid with a characteristic sweet, spicy odor.

Natural occurrence and chemistry: Safrole consists of a benzodioxole ring with an allyl side chain. It is formed biosynthetically in Sassafras albidum; exploitation of safrole-rich sassafras oil historically provided a key flavoring and fragrance component. In modern times safrole is also produced synthetically for industrial use.

Uses and regulation: Historically used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages and as a fragrance component. Due to safety concerns, safrole is no longer permitted as a direct food additive in many countries. It gained significant regulatory attention as a chemical precursor for the synthesis of MDMA and related compounds, and is commonly regulated as a List I chemical with licensing and reporting requirements. Some essential oils and perfumes may contain trace safrole; however, refined products aim to reduce safrole content.

Safety: Animal studies have shown that safrole can be hepatocarcinogenic; the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies safrole as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B). Humans may be exposed through certain foods, beverages, or cosmetic products in trace amounts, but regulatory limits exist to minimize exposure. It is toxic in larger doses.