Names | |
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IUPAC name
3α-Methyl-14a-homo-12-nor-5β,10α-drim-8-en-14a-al
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Systematic IUPAC name
[(1S,2R,4aR,8aR)-1,2,4a,5-Tetramethyl-1,2,3,4,4a,7,8,8a-octahydronaphthalen-1-yl]acetaldehyde | |
Other names
(−)-Callicarpenal; 13,14,15,16-Tetranor-3-cleroden-12-al
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Identifiers | |
3D model (JSmol)
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ChemSpider | |
PubChem CID
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UNII | |
CompTox Dashboard (EPA)
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Properties | |
C16H26O | |
Molar mass | 234.383 g·mol−1 |
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
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Callicarpenal is a terpenoid that has been isolated from plants of the genus Callicarpa (beautyberry).[1] It acts as an insect repellent against mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi) and fire ants.[1][2] It also has activity against ticks (Ixodes scapularis and Amblyomma americanum).[3]
In comparison to the most commonly used insect repellent, DEET, callicarpenal is only about 21% less effective at preventing mosquito bites.[4]
Callicarpenal was discovered by scientists at the United States Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service who were inspired by reports that Callicarpa americana (American beautyberry) was used as a folk remedy to prevent mosquito bites.[5]