salicylaten

Salicylates are salts and esters of salicylic acid (2-hydroxybenzoic acid). The salicylate anion forms by deprotonation of the carboxyl group; common metal salts include sodium salicylate and calcium salicylate, while esters such as methyl salicylate and ethyl salicylate are used in flavors and fragrances. Acetylation of salicylic acid yields acetylsalicylic acid, better known as aspirin, a widely used pharmaceutical with analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties.

In nature, salicylic acid occurs in many plants and serves as a signaling molecule in plant defense. Salicylates such as methyl salicylate contribute to the wintergreen aroma and are used as aroma compounds in foods and cosmetics. In addition to natural occurrence, salicylates are produced synthetically for medical and industrial applications.

Medical and practical uses: Salicylates have historically been used as analgesics and antipyretics; aspirin remains the most prominent salicylate drug. Other salts, such as sodium salicylate, are used in pharmaceutical preparations. Methyl salicylate is used as a flavoring agent and in topical preparations for keratolytic or rubefacient effects. Some salicylate esters are used in fragrances.

Safety and regulation: Salicylates can cause gastrointestinal irritation and, at high doses, salicylate poisoning. In children and teenagers, aspirin use after viral infections is associated with a risk of Reye’s syndrome. Caution is advised in bleeding disorders and when combining with anticoagulants.

Production: Salicylates are prepared by neutralization of salicylic acid with bases to form salts, or by esterification of salicylic acid with alcohols to form esters. In plants, salicylic acid is biosynthesized via the phenylpropanoid pathway as part of defense responses.