Linalool

Linalool () refers to two enantiomers of a naturally occurring terpene alcohol found in many flowers and spice plants. This pair has multiple commercial applications, the majority of which are based on its pleasant scent (floral, with a touch of spiciness). Linolool is a colorless oil. It is classified as an acyclic monoterpenoid. licareol and ("S")-(+)-linalool is also known as coriandrol.
The word "linalool" is based on "linaloe" (a type of wood) and the suffix "".
Occurrence.
Both enantiomeric forms are found in nature: ("S")-linalool is found, for example, as a major constituent of the essential oils of coriander ("Coriandrum sativum" L.), cymbopogon ("Cymbopogon martini" var. "martinii"), and sweet orange ("Citrus sinensis") flowers. ("R")-linalool is present in lavender ("Lavandula officinalis"), bay laurel ("Laurus nobilis"), and sweet basil ("Ocimum basilicum"), among others.
Each enantiomer evokes different neural responses in humans, so are classified as possessing distinct scents. ("S")-(+)-Linalool is perceived as sweet, floral, petitgrain-like (odor threshold 7.4 ppb) and the ("R")-form as more woody and lavender-like (odor threshold 0.8 ppb).
Over 200 species of plants produce linalool, mainly from the families Lamiaceae (mint and other herbs), Lauraceae (laurels, cinnamon, rosewood), and Rutaceae (citrus fruits), but also birch trees and other plants, from tropical to boreal climate zones. 
It was first synthesized in the laboratory of Leopold Ružička in 1919.
Biosynthesis.
The biosynthesis of linalool in higher plants starts at the condensation of dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP) and isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) to form geranyl pyrophosphate (GPP). With the aid of linalool synthase (LIS), water attacks to form the chiral center. LIS appears to show a limonene synthase-type catalysis through a simplified "metal-cofactor-binding domain [where the majority] of the residues involved in substrate...binding [are] in the C-terminal part of the protein" suggesting stereoselectivity and the reasoning behind why some plants have varying levels of each enantiomer.
Uses.
Linalool is used as a scent in 60% to 80% of perfumed hygiene products and cleaning agents including soaps, detergents, shampoos, and lotions. It exhibits antifungal properties. 
It is also used as a chemical intermediate. One common downstream product of linalool is vitamin E.
In addition, linalool is used as an insecticide against flea, fruit fly, and cockroach. It can also be used as a method of pest control for codling moths. Linalool creates a synergistic effect with the codling moth's pheromone called codlemone, which increases attraction of males. Linalool is used in some mosquito-repellent products; however, the U.S. EPA notes that "a preliminary screen of labels for products containing [l]inalool (as the sole active ingredient) indicates that efficacy data on file with the Agency may not support certain claims to repel mosquitos."
Safety and potential toxicity.
Linalool can be absorbed by inhalation of its aerosol and by oral intake or skin absorption, potentially causing irritation, pain and allergic reactions. Some 7% of people undergoing patch testing in Europe were found to be allergic to the oxidized form of linalool.