Benzyl benzoate is an organic compound used as an antiseptic and insect repellent. It is a colourless liquid with a benzyl alcohol-like odour, and is found in many topical creams and lotions. Benzyl benzoate is used to treat the skin condition scabies, which is caused by parasitic mites that burrow into the skin and cause itching and other symptoms. It is also used to treat lice infestations, as it is an effective insect repellent.
Benzyl benzoate is an organic compound used as a medication and insect repellent.
Medically, it is used to treat:
- Scabies: a skin infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei
- Lice: parasitic insects that feed on human blood
It is applied to the skin as a lotion or cream. Typically, two to three applications are needed for scabies treatment.
However, it is important to note that:
- Benzyl benzoate is not the preferred treatment for scabies due to its potential for skin irritation. Permethrin or malathion are generally favored.
- It is not recommended for children or pregnant women.
- It can be toxic to cats.
Other uses of benzyl benzoate include:
- As a flavoring agent in food and beverages
- As a fixative in perfumes and cosmetics
- As a plasticizer in plastics
Here are some additional details about benzyl benzoate:
- Chemical formula: C14H12O2
- Boiling point: 324 °C (615 °F)
- Density: 1.12 g/cm³
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, soluble in organic solvents