Salicin (C₁₃H₁₈O₇) is an alcoholic β-glycoside that contains D-glucose. Salicin is an anti-inflammatory agent that is produced from all willow barks.

Salicin is closely related in chemical make-up to aspirin and has a very similar action in the human body. When consumed, it is metabolized to salicylic acid. The systematic (IUPAC) name of the molecule is 2-(Hydroxymethyl)phenyl β-D-glucopyranoside. It has the following classifications and chemical properties:

• CAS No. 138-52-3
• Merck index 11,8293
• Molecular weight 286.28 g/mol
• Melting point 197-200 °C

Salicin elicits bitterness like quinine, when consumed.

References

External links

• www.emedicinal.com
• Aldrich: Catalog handbook of fine chemicals, Published by: Aldrich Chemical Company 1992
• Thomas Baker Chemicals
• www.chemexper.com