Fenchol

Fenchol (fenchyl alcohol) is a monoterpenoid (C₁₀H₁₈O) and an isomer of borneol that occurs naturally as a colorless to white crystalline solid. It is the compound primarily responsible for the characteristic scent of basil and is found in fennel, chamomile, and other herbs. Fenchol is biosynthesized from geranyl pyrophosphate through a series of enzymatic conversions.

Recent research has highlighted fenchol’s antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. A 2022 study by Rajan et al. published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience found that fenchol may help protect against Alzheimer’s disease by targeting gut bacteria-mediated neuroinflammation. In cannabis, fenchol is a minor terpene that adds herbal, basil-like depth to the aromatic profile.