Nootkatone
Nootkatone is an organic compound, a sesquiterpenoid, which means that it is a C15 derivative that also contains an oxygen-containing functional group (a ketone). It is the most valuable aroma compound of grapefruit.[1] Nootkatone was originally isolated from the wood of the Alaskan yellow cedar, Cupressus nootkatensis. The species name, nootkatensis, is derived from the language of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth people of Canada (formerly referred to as the Nootka people).[2]
Production
Nootkatone is produced commercially from valencene, another more abundant sesquiterpene.[3]
Allylix (Now Lallemand of Montreal, PQ), developed a fermentation process to nootkatone.[4][5]
Mechanism of action
As is true of other plant terpenoids, nootkatone activates α-adrenergic type 1 octopamine receptor (PaOA1) in susceptible arthropods, causing fatal spasms.[6]
Uses
Nootkatone in spray form is an effective repellent or insecticide against deer ticks[7][8][9] and lone star ticks.[8][9] It is also an effective repellent or insecticide against mosquitos, and may repel bed bugs, head lice, Formosan termites,[10] and other insects.[11] It is an environmentally friendly insecticide because it is a volatile essential oil that does not persist in the environment.[11] It was approved by the U.S. EPA for this use on August 10, 2020.[12] Its ability to repel ticks, mosquitoes, and other insects may last for hours, in contrast to other plant-based oil repellants like citronella, peppermint oil, and lemongrass oil.[13] It is nontoxic to humans, is an approved food additive,[11] and is commonly used in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.[7] The CDC has licensed patents to two companies to produce an insecticide and an insect repellant.[11]
See also
References
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