Aliphatic Ketones Aliphatic ketones

2.6.5.4.1 Aliphatic Ketones Aliphatic ketones do not occur abundantly in volatile oils. However, the relatively lower members of this group originate most probably by virtue of the decomposition of rather more complex compounds during the process of steam distillation. Two such species, for instance acetone and diacetyl are commonly found in the ‘oils of cohobation’ (or the distillation waters) accomplished by redistillation (cohobation) of the distillation waters.

It has been observed that acetone and diacetyl are frequently accompanied by methanol and furfural.

Source:Pharmacognosy And Pharmacobiotechnology By Ashutosh Kar