Researchers from the University of Oklahoma have devised a solution for neutralizing the odor of skunk spray using a compound found in fungi.

Led by Professor Robert Cichewic, the team of researchers investigated whether a natural product found in fungi, called pericosine A, might react and thereby neutralize the odorous compounds, called organosulfur compounds, responsible for the overwhelming smell that skunks discharge from their anal glands when they feel threatened. Researchers mixed the pericosine A with different organosulfur compounds from skunk spray and tested them for their reactions. According to the team, the fungal compound reacted to two types of organosulfur compounds called thiols and thioesters, converting them to stable and odorless products.

Although there are a number of commercial remedies available claiming to eliminate the odor associated with skunk spray, most are ineffective. This is due to humans being able to detect organosulfur compounds in extremely low concentrations. Likewise, most of the commercially available remedies can reportedly cause skin and eye irritation in humans.

The team has since modified the original structure of pericosine A as well as some of the other ingredients of the combined compounds, creating a safer and non-irritating product.

The research is published in the Journal of Natural Products.