Zingerone (Vanillylacetone) is a nontoxic methoxyphenol isolated from Zingiber officinale, with potent anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antidiarrhoeic, antilipolytic, antispasmodic, and anti-tumor properties. Zingerone (Gingerone) alleviates oxidative stress and inflammation, down-regulates NF-κB mediated signaling pathways, acts as an anti-mitotic agent, and inhibits the growth of neuroblastoma cells.

Zingeroneis similar in chemical structure to other flavor chemicals such as vanillin and eugenol. It is used as a flavor additive in spice oils and in perfumery to introduce spicy aromas. Fresh ginger does not contain vanillylacetone; cooking the ginger transforms gingerol, which is present, into Zingeronethrough a retro-aldol reaction. Zingeroneis likely the active constituent responsible for the antidiarrheal efficacy of ginger. [1]