Otto Wallach quotes

Otto Wallach was a German scientist and chemist renowned for his pioneering work in organic chemistry. His research on alicyclic compounds significantly advanced the understanding of the structure and properties of essential oils. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his contributions to the field. Here are 7 of his quotes:

In organic chemistry, we have learnt to derive from compounds containing only carbon and hydrogen, i.e. from the hydrocarbons, all other types of combinations, such as alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, acids, etc.

Otto Wallach

One would think that plants belonging to the same genus would always produce identical or at least similar oils. But this is by no means so.

Otto Wallach

It has been possible to trace historically back to a very early age the taxes which were imposed on medicines, spices and similar substances in German towns. Thus, for instance, one finds that in the year 1500, thirteen, in 1540, thirty-eight, and in 1708, already one hundred and twenty vegetable oils are mentioned.

Otto Wallach

Most of the oils which are valued as scents are mixtures of substances; only the combined effect of these leads to the known result.

Otto Wallach

As soon as chemists have a definite conception of the internal structure of the molecule of an organic compound, they are able to tackle the task of producing these substances by artificial methods, i.e. by synthesis, as we call it.

Otto Wallach

May the work for the further development of chemical science, which has its strongest roots in this beautiful, strong and hard-working country of Sweden, continue to flourish in the future, for the promotion of culture and the benefit of mankind.

Otto Wallach