MONOTERPENES

They are the terpenes that have been known for several centuries as components of the fragrant oils obtained from leaves, flowers and fruits. Monoterpenes, with sesquiterpenes, are the main constituents of essential oils. While a few, such as camphor, occur in a near pure form, most occur as complex mixtures, often of isomers difficult to separate. These essential oils have numerous actions, such as allelochemical functions between plants and between plants and predators. A role in wound healing was also observed. 

ACYCLIC MONOTERPENES

They can be considered as derivatives of 2,6-dimethyloctane.

Among natural molecules, the followings are well known and have several structural isomers.

MONOCYCLIC MONOTERPENES

They are derived from cyclohexane with an isopropyl substituent. The most typical are :

BICYCLIC MONOTERPENES

Many monoterpenes possess antitumor activity in animal and cell models. They have also antioxidant properties, g-terpene being one of the most effective.