Caffeyl alcohol
# Caffeyl alcohol

Caffeyl alcohol is the organic compound with the formula $(HO)_2C_6H_3-4-CHCHCH_2OH.$ This colourless solid is related to catechol by attachment to allyl alcohol. It is the precursor to one of the three principal lignols.

## Preparation and occurrence

In the laboratory, caffeyl alcohol can be synthesized from 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde. It is an intermediate in the biosynthesis of coniferyl alcohol, the conversion being effected by caffeate O-methyltransferase.

## Related compounds

Two related compounds are caffeyl aldehyde and caffeic acid, the latter also being a minor component of coffee.

