Azulene
Other names: Cyclopentacycloheptene
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Azulene, also known as cyclopentacycloheptene, is an organic compound that is abundantly present in some commonly available botanical extracts. This substance has a characteristic dark blue colour, hence its name, from the Latin word 'azul', meaning blue. It is a bicyclic hydrocarbon, and so its structure belongs to the terpene group. Azulene is significant for its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties and therefore finds application in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
Its use in pharmaceutical products is based on its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Azulene is often used in ointments and creams for allergic and irritated skin to soothe and regenerate. In the cosmetics industry, Azulene is used in products such as skin creams, masks, shampoos and after-shave products. Its application helps reduce skin redness, reduces inflammation and soothes the skin after shaving or epilation. Due to its blue color, its coloring properties are also used in the ink and dye industry. Azulene is also a component of some types of perfumes, where it adds a subtle hue to their scent. Azulene therefore has a wide range of applications in the world of industrial production and is widely used.