Farnesol

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

Farnesol is an organic substance found in various species of yeast and is also known as yeast extract. This alcohol occurs naturally in many essential oils, including orange blossom, rose, jasmine and marjoram oils. Farnesol has a characteristic scent that is reminiscent of lichen or wood. It is a colourless liquid that is slightly soluble in water but mixes well with alcohol and ether.

The main use of farnesol is in the cosmetic industry. Due to its fragrance, it is often used in perfumery as a fragrance ingredient. Farnesol is also used in social insects such as termites and ants, where it acts as a pheromone. In health care, it is used in appeals aimed at the treatment and prevention of certain types of cancer. Its antimicrobial effects are also used in oral care products such as toothpastes and mouthwashes. In addition, Farnesol is included in many antiperspirants and deodorants because of its ability to inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria. However, the use of farnesol is carefully regulated as it can cause an allergic reaction in some people. In the European Union, it is therefore compulsory to indicate this ingredient on the product label.