Tiglic acid (also (E)-2-Methylbut-2-enoic acid) is an organic acid. It occurs in croton oil, Roman chamomile, and geranium. It can be prepared by dehydration of MEK cyanohydrin, followed by the hydrolysis of the nitrile function. It is either in the form of a thick syrup or colorless crystals. It is with a sweet, warm, spicy odor. It is used to synthesize esters for perfume manufacturing industry and as a raw material to produce acids and esters, which are applied as flavoring agent for food and beverage industry. Tiglic acid is also a useful starting material in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates.
