A process for preparing a mixture of isomers of caryophyllene alcohol and dihydrocaryophyllene alcohol including 10,10-dimethyl-2,6-dimethylene bicyclo[7.2.0]undecan-5-ol by isomerizing caryophyllene oxide or dihydrocaryophyllene oxide using an aluminum isopropylate catalyst in a toluene solvent at temperatures in the range of from about 100.degree. C. up to about 150.degree. C. is described.
The present invention discloses a new process for the preparation of .beta.-caryophyllene alcohol, in which the sesquiterpene fraction at 110-120.degree. C./6 mmHg in Chinese pinus massoniana oleoresin composition undergoes isomerization in the presence of sulfuric acid as catalyst and the .beta.-caryophyllene alcohol is thus prepared through separation, re-crystallization and purification of the residue from the bottom of the vessel for the preparation of isolongifolene.
