Clove oil (redistilled) for microscopy

Clove oil (redistilled) for microscopy is a purified essential oil derived from clove buds (Syzygium aromaticum or Eugenia spp.), redistilled to remove impurities and water, containing ≥87.8% eugenol, used as a clearing agent for botanical and histological sections.​

Identity and Composition

Source: Steam-distilled from clove buds, redistilled and dried.

Main component: Eugenol (≥87.8% v/v).​

Synonyms: Oil of cloves.​

Physical Properties

Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid.

Odor: Characteristic spicy clove aroma.

Refractive index (20°C, 589 nm): 1.5300–1.5310.​

Optical rotation: -1.5° to 0°.​

Solubility: Insoluble in water; miscible with alcohol, ether, fixed oils.​

Typical Uses

Redistilled clove oil clears plant tissues (e.g., leaves, stems) by removing chlorophyll and rendering sections transparent for microscopic examination of internal structures like vascular bundles.​

Handling and Safety

Store in amber bottles away from light/heat. Irritant (H315, H319, H335); causes skin/eye irritation and respiratory discomfort. Use gloves/ventilation.​

For catalog purposes: “Clove oil (redistilled) for microscopy, ≥87.8% eugenol, pale yellow liquid, RI 1.530–1.531, clearing agent for botanical sections; irritant.”​