Cresol

Cresols (also known as hydroxytoluene, toluenol, benzol or cresylic acid) are a group of aromatic organic compounds.

Cresols commonly occur as either solids or liquids because their melting points are generally close to room temperature.

Like other types of phenols, they are slowly oxidized by exposure to air, and the resulting impurities often give the samples a yellow to brownish red tint.

Another method entails methylation of phenol with methanol over a solid acid catalyst, often comprising magnesium oxide or alumina.

Cresols are precursors or synthetic intermediates to other compounds and materials, including plastics, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and dyes.

Ingesting high levels results in kidney problems, mouth and throat burns, abdominal pain, vomiting, and effects on the blood and nervous system.