Skatole

Skatole or 3-methylindole is a mildly toxic white crystalline organic compound belonging to the indole family. Sakatole is also described as a white, crystalline, water soluble solid, C 9 H 9 N, having a strong, fecal odor: used chiefly as a fixative in the manufacture of perfume. It occurs naturally in feces and coal tar, and has a strong fecal odor. In low concentrations it has a flowery smell and is found in several flowers and essential oils, including those of orange blossoms, jasmine, and Ziziphus mauritiana. It is used as a fragrance and fixative in many perfumes and as an aroma compound. Its name is derived from the Greek root skato- meaning "dung".