Safrole meaning

Safrole is a carcinogenic compound found in certain plants that is used in the production of pesticides and fragrances.


Safrole definitions

Word backwards elorfas
Part of speech Safrole is a noun.
Syllabic division saf-role
Plural The plural of safrole is safroles.
Total letters 7
Vogais (3) a,o,e
Consonants (4) s,f,r,l

Safrole is a natural organic compound found in certain essential oils, such as sassafras oil, nutmeg oil, and camphor oil. This colorless or slightly yellow oily liquid is primarily used as a precursor for the synthesis of the recreational drug MDMA. Due to its potential carcinogenic properties, the use of safrole is regulated in many countries.

One of the primary concerns associated with safrole is its link to liver cancer in animal studies. The compound has been identified as a hepatocarcinogen, meaning it has the potential to cause cancer in the liver. As a result, the production and sale of safrole-containing products are heavily restricted in various parts of the world.

Regulatory Status

The use of safrole in food and beverages is prohibited in the United States by the FDA. It is also banned in the European Union and Canada. However, safrole is still used in traditional medicine and certain cultural practices in some regions. In these cases, the compound is often found in trace amounts and is not considered a significant health risk.

Health Risks

Exposure to high levels of safrole can have detrimental effects on human health. In addition to its carcinogenic potential, safrole has been linked to liver damage and other health issues. It is essential to handle safrole-containing products with caution and adhere to any safety guidelines provided by regulatory agencies.

Safrole has a distinctive odor and flavor, which has led to its use as a flavoring agent in some products. However, due to its health risks, the use of safrole as a food additive is strictly regulated. Individuals should be aware of the presence of safrole in certain foods and avoid consumption if necessary.

In conclusion, while safrole has some industrial and commercial uses, its potential health risks outweigh its benefits. Regulatory agencies continue to monitor the use of safrole to protect public health and safety. It is crucial for individuals to understand the risks associated with this compound and take appropriate precautions to minimize exposure.


Safrole Examples

  1. Safrole is a key ingredient in the production of MDMA.
  2. Some people believe that safrole has medicinal properties.
  3. The extraction of safrole from sassafras oil is a complex process.
  4. There are regulations in place regarding the use of safrole in food and beverages.
  5. Safrole can be converted into other chemicals through a series of reactions.
  6. The scent of safrole is described as sweet and spicy.
  7. Safrole has been used in the production of perfumes and soaps.
  8. The sale of safrole is restricted in many countries due to its potential health risks.
  9. Research is ongoing to explore the various uses of safrole in different industries.
  10. The chemical structure of safrole makes it a versatile compound for synthesis.


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  • Updated 28/03/2024 - 01:31:01