(Z)-cinnamyl benzoate

(Z)-cinnamyl benzoate is a benzoic acid ester characterized by the molecular formula C₁₆H₁₄O₂ and a molecular weight of approximately 238.29 g/mol. This compound appears as a component of natural extractives and is especially notable for its presence in jasmine absolute sambac at around 0.16%. The ester is also known by several synonyms including (Z)-3-phenylprop-2-enyl benzoate, benzoic acid [(Z)-3-phenyl-2-propenyl] ester, and cis-cinnamyl benzoate. Sensory descriptions typically link it with floral and balsamic aromatic properties common to jasmine derivatives. The compound is documented in databases such as PubChem, enabling standardized identification and research referencing. It is usually obtained via natural extraction from botanical sources or synthesized for analytical and formulation purposes.

(Z)-cinnamyl benzoate primarily occurs in jasmine absolute sambac, constituting a minor but significant constituent at approximately 0.16%. Its usage is focused on natural substances and extractives where it contributes to the characteristic aroma profiles. Due to regulatory recommendations outlined under standards such as FEMA (US), (Z)-cinnamyl benzoate is generally not approved for fragrance or flavor uses at appreciable levels. The compound's presence in complex natural extracts supports fragrance formulation indirectly by enhancing the overall profile of essential oils and absolutes. Its limited water solubility and physicochemical properties influence formulation decisions when present in natural or synthetic aromatic mixtures.

(Z)-cinnamyl benzoate exhibits moderate physicochemical characteristics impacting its application in formulations. It has a molecular weight of 238.29 g/mol and a molecular formula of C₁₆H₁₄O₂. The compound's water solubility is low, estimated at 5.8 mg/L at 25 °C, reflecting its hydrophobic ester nature and compatibility with lipophilic systems. This limited aqueous solubility affects extraction efficiency, volatility, and stability in formulation matrices. The ester bond provides certain chemical stability, though the (Z)-configuration may influence interaction with other formulation components. These properties require consideration during chemical analysis, extraction, and potential incorporation in natural product-based applications.

(IUPAC):	Atomic Weights of the Elements 2011 (pdf)
Videos:	The Periodic Table of Videos
tgsc:	Atomic Weights use for this web site
(IUPAC):	Periodic Table of the Elements
HMDB (The Human Metabolome Database):	Search
Typical G.C.
VCF-Online:	VCF Volatile Compounds in Food
ChemSpider:	View

Safety information

Hazards identification
Classification of the substance or mixture
GHS Classification in accordance with 29 CFR 1910 (OSHA HCS)
None found.
GHS Label elements, including precautionary statements
Pictogram
Hazard statement(s)
None found.
Precautionary statement(s)
None found.
Oral/Parenteral Toxicity:
Not determined
Dermal Toxicity:
Not determined
Inhalation Toxicity:
Not determined

Safety in use information

Category:
natural substances and extractives
Recommendation for (Z)-cinnamyl benzoate usage levels up to:
	not for fragrance use.
Recommendation for (Z)-cinnamyl benzoate flavor usage levels up to:
	not for flavor use.

Safety references

EPI System: View

AIDS Citations:Search

Cancer Citations:Search

Toxicology Citations:Search

EPA ACToR:Toxicology Data

EPA Substance Registry Services (SRS):Registry

Laboratory Chemical Safety Summary :5315914

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases:Data

WGK Germany:2

[(Z)-3-phenylprop-2-enyl] benzoate