It is a white solid with an intensely sweet floral odor.

[3] It occurs naturally in willow (Salix), tea, hyacinth, zucchini (Cucurbita pepo).

[4] In a study in mice, Iranian scientists identified 1,4-dimethoxybenzene as the major psychoactive chemical in musk willow (Salix aegyptiaca) by its ability to cause somnolescence and depressed activity.

[3] It is an intermediate in synthesis of organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals such as methoxamine and butaxamine.

[citation needed] It can be used as a developer in black and white film, and as a base in synthesizing catecholamines and phenethylamines.