Where It Comes From
Produced from safrole (a component of sassafras and related oils); may occur as a trace in essential oils; also made in chemical plants [1][3].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing vapors or skin contact at work during manufacturing or handling; from air during spills or poor ventilation; rarely from contaminated consumer products [3].
Why It Matters
Can irritate eyes/skin; repeated or high exposure may affect the liver. IARC has evaluated isosafrole and related compounds for carcinogenicity; safrole is classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), and NTP lists safrole as reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Workers in fragrance, essential‑oil processing, and chemical manufacturing; people near poorly controlled facilities or spills [1][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Use closed systems, local exhaust, and PPE at work; follow Safety Data Sheets. Store and label properly. Choose reputable essential oils/products and ventilate areas where solvents/fragrances are used [4].
References
- [1]IARC Monographs, Volume 10: Some Naturally Occurring and Synthetic Food Components (includes safrole and isosafrole).
- [2]NTP, Report on Carcinogens: Safrole (Reasonably Anticipated to be a Human Carcinogen).
- [3]U.S. EPA Substance Registry Services (SRS): Isosafrole (CASRN 120-58-1).
- [4]CDC/NIOSH, Hierarchy of Controls (guidance for reducing workplace exposures).