Benzoic acid (C7H6O2) was first described in the 16th century. The name was derived from gum benzoin. It is a crystalline organic compound. It is white and belongs to the family of carboxylic acid. It was first prepared from coal tar. It is used in various ways, like manufacturing of insect repellents, below are some uses of benzoic acid in our life.
Uses Benzoic acid
The uses of benzoic acid are as follows:
1. In batteries
2. Home air fresheners, including candles with a fragrance.
3. Cleaning products for carpets or other floorings that do not fit into a more refined category.
Benzoic acid in food:
Food with naturally occurring benzoic acid – ripe cloves, most berries and cinnamon. Benzoic acid is used in the preservation of food. Example – salad dressings, soft drinks, fruit juices and pickles. Usually, processed food has benzoic acid to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mould and yeast
Uses of benzoic acid in medicine and healthcare:
Benzoic acid 210 is used in pharmaceuticals. It is used as a preservative in drugs. It is also present in baby products, skin products, cleansing products, hair and nail products, soaps, bath products, detergents etc.
Uses of benzoic acid in treatment:
It helps in the prevention of bacterial infection. It is used as an antifungal for treating diseases like ringworm and athlete's foot. It is excreted as hippuric acid after conjugation with glycine in the liver. The excreted hippuric acid is not highly toxic. It is used in the treatment of skin irritation caused by insect bites, burns etc.
Other uses of benzoic acid:
Used in toothpaste, jam, beverages, poultry, agriculture, perfume, dye etc.