Benzyl Alcohol

General Description:

Chemical Formula: C7H8O

Benzyl alcohol is an aromatic alcohol with the formula C6H5CH2OH. The benzyl group is often abbreviated "Bn" (not to be confused with "Bz" which is used for benzoyl), thus benzyl alcohol is denoted as BnOH. Benzyl alcohol is a colorless liquid with a mild pleasant aromatic odor.

Application & Usage:

Personal Care: Benzyl alcohol lotions is used to treat head lice (small insects that attach themselves to the skin) in adults and children 6 months of age and older. It should not be used in children less than 6 months of age.

Benzyl alcohol is in a class of medications called pediculicides. It works by killing the lice.

Chemical Synthesis: Benzyl alcohol is a commonly used intermediate in the chemical industry to add phenyl/benzyl groups to products. It is used in manufacturing of esters used as an intermediate in the synthesis of the polypeptide. It is also used in the production of benzyl chloroformate.