Isoeugenol

is a widespread flavouring substance which belongs to the group of substances called phenylpropanoids. Isoeugenol is a yellowish liquid with a distinct smell of clove. The substance is often found in nature together with eugenol. It is found in ylang-ylang oil, nutmeg oil, cloves and dill. Isoeugenol can also be found in dental material (see alsoeugenol) and in flavoured teas.

Isoeugenol is one of the most frequently sensitizing fragrances. It has a stronger sensitizing effect than eugenol. The usual test concentration in the epicutaneous test series is 1 % (in vaseline).

1. Fajemiroye JO et al (2014) Anxiolytic and antidepressant like effects of natural foodflavour (E)-methyl isoeugenol. Food Funct 5:1819-1828

2. Tanaka et al (2004): Contact allergy to isoeugenol and is derivatives: problems with allergen substitution. Contact Dermatitis 51: 288-291