Ocimene refers to several isomeric organic compounds. The ocimenes are monoterpenes found within a variety of plants and fruits. α-Ocimene and β-ocimene differ in the position of one double bond. α-Ocimene is 3,7-dimethyl-1,3,7-octatriene. β-Ocimene is 3,7-dimethyl-1,3,6-octatriene. β-Ocimene can also exist in two stereoisomeric forms, cis and trans about the central double bond. The ocimenes are often found naturally as mixtures of the various forms. The mixture is an oil with a pleasant odor which is used in perfumery. It is nearly insoluble in water, but soluble in most common organic solvents.
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