Cinnamic acid has the formula C6H5CHCHCOOH and is a white crystalline acid, which is slightly soluble in water. It has a melting point of 133°C and a boiling point of 300°C. It is obtained from oil of cinnamon, or from balsams such as storax. It is also found in shea butter and is the best indication of its environmental history and post-extraction conditions. It can also be made synthetically. Cinnamic acid is used in flavours, synthetic indigo and certain pharmaceuticals, though its primary use is in the manufacturing of the methyl, ethyl, and benzyl esters for the perfume industry.
