Falcarinol

Falcarinol, a naturally occurring unsaturated alcohol, is found as a secondary plant substance in a number of plants (especially in umbellifers). Falcarinol is an oily liquid at room temperature with a boiling point of 115 °C .

Falcarinol is found in carrots, red ginseng (Panax ginseng), celery and common ivy (Hedera helix). The substance protects the roots of the plants against predators and fungal infections (e.g. against Mycocentrospora acerina)

In animal experiments, falcarinol has a tumour-protective effect at low doses. Falcarinol also has an antibacterial, fungicidal and pain-relieving effect. Falcarinol inhibits platelet aggregation. Falcarinol causes contact allergic and toxic skin reactions (see below ivy dermatitis). In higher concentrations it has a toxic effect.

1. Kjellenberg L et al(2012) Polyacetylenes in fresh and stored carrots (Daucus carota): relations to root morphology and sugar content. J Sci Food Agric 92:1748-1754.
2. Leonti M et al.(2010) Falcarinol is a covalent cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist and induces pro-allergic effects in skin. Biochem Pharmacol 79:1815-1826 Machado S et al. (2002) Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from falcarinol. Contact dermatitis 47:113-114.