Ambroxide


Ambroxide, widely known by the brand name Ambroxan, is a naturally occurring terpenoid and one of the key constituents responsible for the odor of ambergris. It is an autoxidation product of ambrein.

Synthesis

Ambroxide is synthesized from sclareol, a component of the essential oil of clary sage. Sclareol is oxidatively degraded to a lactone, which is hydrogenated to the corresponding diol. The resulting compound is dehydrated to form ambroxide.

Use

Ambroxide is used in perfumery for creating ambergris notes and as a fixative. Small amounts are used as a flavoring in food.