Serum or plasma concentration of **eugenol** (a phenolic compound found in essential oils, including clove oil)
This test measures the amount of eugenol in your blood or plasma, which may be checked if you’ve used clove oil products or have certain medical conditions.
["Eugenol levels can be relevant in cases of exposure or specific diagnostic contexts."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7489-8
- Short code
- CAJEP-HR
- Synonyms
- Cajeput tree BasoBnd Ab Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- EDTA or heparinized whole blood collection tube (sodium heparin preferred for basophil activation studies)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 3–99 years
- Method
- Basophil histamine release assay
- CPT
- 86003
- SNOMED
- 39579001
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL whole blood
- Stability
- Process within 2-4 hours of collection; do not refrigerate; maintain at room temperature (18-25°C)
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Eugenol?
Eugenol is a naturally occurring compound found in plants like clove, cinnamon, and basil. It has antimicrobial properties and is often used in essential oils, dental products, and as a flavoring agent. In medical testing, it may be measured to assess exposure or its role in certain conditions.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve recently used clove oil products (e.g., for pain relief, oral hygiene, or aromatherapy) or if symptoms like nausea, dizziness, or unusual skin reactions occur. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions involving essential oil exposure or metabolic studies.
What Does the Result Mean?
Results are not typically provided as a single reference range since eugenol is not a standard clinical analyte. Elevated levels may indicate recent exposure to clove oil or related products, while very low or undetectable levels suggest no recent exposure. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
How Is This Test Done?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is processed to separate serum or plasma, where eugenol levels are measured using a specialized laboratory technique, such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or immunoassay, depending on the lab’s method.
Reference range
Negative (no significant histamine release detected at standard allergen concentration)N/A
No special preparation required. Patient should discontinue antihistamine medications (H1 and H2 blockers) for 5-7 days prior to testing if clinically feasible. Corticosteroids should be discontinued for 2-4 weeks prior when possible, after consulting with the ordering physician.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Eugenol Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What are common causes of elevated eugenol levels?
Can I avoid this test if I haven’t used clove oil?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy