The presence of 3-and 4-(ω-phenylalkyl) catechols in Burmese lac has been confirmed by their synthesis. 3-(ω-Phenylalkyl) veratroles were synthesized by alkylation of ω-phenylalkyl bromide with aryl lithium derived from veratrole. 4-(ω-Phenylalkyl) veratroles were similarly obtained from ω-phenylalkyl bromide and 4-bromoveratrole. Demethylation of 3-and 4-(ω- phenylalkyl) veratroles with boron tribromide gave the corresponding catechols in good ...