4-Hexylresorcinol
[CAS 136-77-6]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Antiparasitic drug >> Anthelmintic
• Name: 4-Hexylresorcinol
• Synonyms: 4-Hexyl-1,3-benzenediol
• Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₁₈O₂
• Molecular Weight: 194.27
• CAS Registry Number: 136-77-6
• EC Number: 205-257-4
• SMILES: CCCCCCC1=C(C=C(C=C1)O)O

Properties

• Solubility: 0.05 g/100 mL (18 °C, water)
• Density: 1.0±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*
• Index of Refraction: 1.540, Calc.^*
• Melting point: 65-70 °C
• Boiling Point: 329.5±12.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*, 333-335 °C
• Flash Point: 155.2±14.2 °C, Calc.^*

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P264-P264+P265-P270-P271-P280-P301+P317-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P319-P321-P330-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Flammable solids	Flam. Sol.	2	H228
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H312
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1B	H314

Discovery and Applications

Initially synthesized through organic chemistry techniques, 4-Hexylresorcinol was identified for its potent antimicrobial properties during laboratory screenings. This discovery led to further exploration of its molecular structure and biological activity, revealing its broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects against bacteria, fungi, and certain parasites.

4-Hexylresorcinol is commonly used as an antiseptic and disinfectant in various medical and household products. Its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi makes it effective in preventing infections and sanitizing surfaces, wounds, and medical instruments. 4-Hexylresorcinol is an active ingredient in oral care products such as mouthwash and throat lozenges. Its antimicrobial properties help reduce oral bacteria and plaque formation, contributing to improved oral hygiene and prevention of dental caries and periodontal diseases. In dermatology, 4-Hexylresorcinol is utilized in skincare products for its depigmenting and anti-inflammatory effects. It helps lighten hyperpigmented skin areas such as age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, while also reducing skin redness and irritation. 4-Hexylresorcinol is incorporated into hair care formulations, including shampoos and scalp treatments, for its antifungal properties. It helps combat scalp conditions such as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Due to its antimicrobial activity, 4-Hexylresorcinol is used as a preservative in food and beverages to inhibit microbial growth and extend shelf life. 4-Hexylresorcinol is employed in aquaculture as a parasiticide and antifungal agent to control diseases in fish and shellfish farming. It helps prevent infections caused by parasitic organisms and fungal pathogens, improving the health and productivity of aquatic organisms. Beyond healthcare and agriculture, 4-Hexylresorcinol finds applications in various industrial processes, including the production of adhesives, coatings, and rubber products. Its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties contribute to product stability and performance enhancement.

References

2024. Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of 4-Hexylresorcinol. Biomedical Application of 4-Hexylresorcinol.
DOI: 10.1007/978-981-97-0637-2_4

2024. Therapeutic Potential of 4-Hexylresorcinol in Preserving Testicular Function in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(8).
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084316

2024. Antibiotic Adjuvant 4-Hexylresorcinol Enhances the Efficiency of Antituberculosis Drugs. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 176(4).
DOI: 10.1007/s10517-024-06048-5