Sclarene

Sclarene is a diterpene hydrocarbon found in Salvia sclarea (clary sage) and other plant species. It is a colorless oil with a characteristic woody, ambergris-like odor, which makes it of interest in perfumery.

Chemically, sclarene is a bicyclic compound, specifically a labdane-type diterpene. Its structure consists of two fused six-membered rings and a branched side chain. The molecule is biosynthesized through the isoprenoid pathway.

Sclarene is not typically isolated in its pure form for commercial use. Instead, it is often a component of clary sage oil or extracts derived from clary sage. These extracts are valued for their fragrance and are used in the creation of perfumes, cosmetics, and flavorings. Sclarene contributes to the overall fragrance profile, adding depth and complexity.

While sclarene itself is not considered a major fragrance ingredient, it can undergo chemical transformations to produce other valuable fragrance compounds, such as sclareol and ambroxan. Sclareol is a precursor to ambroxan, a highly prized fixative with a powerful ambergris odor. In this indirect way, sclarene plays a role in the synthesis of commercially important aroma chemicals.