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safrole

(Science: chemical) Constituent of several essential oils, notably sassafras. It has been used as a topical antiseptic and it is carcinogenic to the liver so it is no longer used as a flavoring agent in foods.

Pharmacological action: anti-infective agents, local, carcinogens.

Chemical name: 1,3-Benzodioxole, 5-(2-propenyl)-