Article

Biological properties of essential oils: An updated review

November 2010
Flavour and Fragrance Journal 25(6):407 - 426

DOI:10.1002/ffj.2024

Authors:

In the last few years more and more studies on the biological properties of essential oils have been published and it seemed worthwhile to compile the studies of 2009, 2008 and the second part of 2007. Such an overview covering the scientific literature mainly from 2000 onwards, up to the first half of the year 2007, has been published recently. The focus of this overview lies on the anti-nociceptive, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, penetration-enhancing, insect repellent, antiviral and antioxidative properties of essential oils. Many essential oils have been used for centuries in folk medicine and in recent years the biological properties of various essential oils have been proved by a number of studies. Their use in the treatment of pain, inflammation, viral diseases and cancer and their potential to enhance the penetration of other drugs, their insect repellent activity and their antioxidative effects were confirmed. Nonetheless, more studies are necessary to analyse the biological properties of other essential oils or to prove their mechanism of action. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Sesquiterpene Hydrocarbon-rich Essential Oil from Teucrium viscidum Blume and its Antimicrobial and Mosquito Larvicidal Activities

Article

Full-text available

Nov 2024
NAT PROD COMMUN

Objectives This study aimed to investigate the essential oil extracted from the aerial parts of Teucrium viscidum Blume, a perennial herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family, collected in Vietnam. The focus was on determining the essential oil's chemical composition and evaluating its antimicrobial and mosquito larvicidal activities. Methods The essential oil of T. viscidum was analyzed using GC–FID/MS to identify its chemical constituents. The antimicrobial activity was assessed against seven microorganisms using the broth microdilution method to determine minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values. The larvicidal activity was evaluated against Culex quinquefasciatus larvae, with lethal concentration (LC50 and LC90) values calculated after 24 and 48 h of exposure. Results Chemical analysis revealed that the essential oil of T. viscidum was predominantly composed of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, with (E)-caryophyllene (47.91%) and germacrene D (19.17%) as the major constituents. The essential oil exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against three Gram-positive bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus), one Gram-negative bacterium (Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and one yeast (Candida albicans), with MIC values ranging from 32 to 64 μg/mL and IC50 values ranging from 9.56 to 24.07 μg/mL. The mosquito larvicidal activity of the essential oil showed strong efficacy against C. quinquefasciatus larvae, with LC50 values of 23.07 μg/mL after 24 h and 19.67 μg/mL after 48 h, and LC90 values of 32.90 μg/mL at 24 h and 29.99 μg/mL at 48 h, indicating increased effectiveness with prolonged exposure. Conclusion This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the chemical composition and biological activities of T. viscidum essential oil. The findings highlight its potent antimicrobial and mosquito larvicidal properties, suggesting it as a promising natural alternative to synthetic antimicrobial agents and insecticides. Further research is warranted to explore its mechanisms of action and potential applications in pharmaceuticals and pest control.

Comparative Phytochemical Analysis and Therapeutic Properties of Essential Oils from Citrus Limon and Cymbopogon Citratus

Article

Full-text available

Aug 2024

Background: Essential oils of Lemon (Citrus limon) and Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) are commonly used in therapeutic contexts including stress-reduction. There is paucity of detailed phytochemical research on chemical constituents of Citrus limon and Cymbopogon citratus essential oils to delineate their therapeutic potentials including reduction of stress. There is also dearth of comparative studies focusing on their phytochemical composition and their efficacy substantiating stress management. Objective: This study aims to authenticate and compare the chemical composition of essential oils of Citrus limon and Cymbopogon citratus and understand their potential in reduction of stress. Methodology: Leaves of Citrus limon and Cymbopogon citratus were collected, authenticated and hydrodistillation was conducted to produce Essential oils. The essential oils were analyzed qualitatively using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The efficacy in reduction of stress was carried-out utilizing structured questionnaire and observational schedule. Results: GC-MS analysis of essential oils from Citrus limon and Cymbopogon citratus revealed 52 (C.limon) and 82 (C.citratus) compounds, respectively. Essential oils of Citrus limon and Cymbopogon citratus exhibited appreciable composition of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes with therapeutic potency. Conclusion: The phytochemical composition of essential oils of Citrus limon and Cymbopogon citratus confirmed their therapeutic eminence, especially in reduction of stress. The reported chemical profile of essential oils of Citrus limon and Cymbopogon citratus affirms their efficacy in selective human therapy including aromatherapy. Recommendation: There is dearth of clinical research studies on essential oils of Citrus limon and Cymbopogon citratus substantiating their therapeutic efficacy in reduction of stress. Prevalence of stress and syndromes of anxiety related therapeutic developments are the dire needs of the present generation and therefore, concerted research efforts are worthy to substantiate their value in clinical therapeutics. Future predictive studies on variation in their chemical composition with strict attention on geographical and climatic variations are envisaged.

GC-MS Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Lime Leaf Ethanol Extract (Citrus amblycarpa (Hassk.) Ochse), and Its Potential as a Traditional Medicine Agents

Article

Full-text available

Apr 2024

Lime (Citrus amblycarpa (Hassk.) Ochse) has been widely used in traditional medicine. However, only some studies have comprehensively revealed the content of leaves, including their use as candidate medicinal ingredients. This study aimed to analyze the active compounds of lime leaves through GC-MS analysis and their benefits in traditional medicine. Experimental research with a laboratory approach is used. The implementation of research by analyzing the bioactive content of lime leaf ethanol extract using GC-MS along with a comprehensive analysis related to its benefits as a traditional medicine agent. Data analysis using the Willey 7 Library database and descriptive analysis. Using GC-MS showed that lime leaf ethanol extract contains 75 compound components dominated by 11 principal components, including citronellol, caryophyllene, hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester, 1-heptatriacotanol, Phytol, ethyl 9,12,15-oate; methyl glycocholate, 3TMS derivative; 3,7-dimethyloct-6-en-1-yl stearate; ethyl iso-allocate; Rhopin; and tricyclo [20.8.0.0 (7,16)] triacontane, 1(22),7(16)-diepoxy-. Based on the findings of the content evaluation, the compound constituents of lime leaves have the potential to be developed as traditional remedies for both degenerative and infectious diseases. However, further research is needed precisely to identify the therapeutic effects exerted by using compounds on lime leaves.

Synthesis and Thermal Properties of Bio-Based Janus Ring Siloxanes Incorporating Terpenes and Terpenoids

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2024

A mild and highly selective hydrosilylation method was employed to synthesize five novel well-defined Janus ring siloxanes bearing terpenes and terpenoids, which are the main bioactive components of essential oils. The characterization of these new bio-sourced molecular materials, derived from hydrosilyl-substituted all-cis-cyclotetrasiloxane, was conducted through comprehensive analyses using multinuclear NMR, infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and mass spectroscopy. The thermal stability of the newly synthesized Janus rings was investigated, and the siloxane skeleton was shown to confer an enhanced thermal stability compared with free terpenes and terpenoids.

Bioactive Eucalyptus and Peppermint Oil Blend Microemulsion Preparation, Characterization and Evaluation

Article

Sep 2024

Effect of Different Drying Methods on Retention of Colour, Total Phenolic Content, Flavonoid Content and Antioxidant Activity in Pereskia bleo Leaves

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2024

Pereskia bleo, a widely cultivated plant known for its medicinal applications, contains abundant phytochemicals, including phenolics and flavonoids, predominantly in its leaves. The drying process, a standard practice for enhancing the shelf life, could affect the bioactive compounds within the leaves. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the impact of various drying methods on the colour, total phenolic content, flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity of P. bleo leaves. The tested drying methods include shade, oven, microwave, and freeze-drying. The colour of fresh and dried leaves was assessed using a Minolta chromameter. The total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) of the P. bleo leaves extracts were determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu’s and aluminium chloride colourimetric assay, respectively. Antioxidant capacities were analysed with DPPH radical scavenging and ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP). The results showed that microwave drying has significantly less impact than the other drying methods on the colour attributes of the leaves (p<0.05). Notably, microwave-dried P. bleo leaves demonstrated significantly higher TPC (77.31 ± 0.70 mg GAE/g dry extract) and TFC (35.79 ± 1.34 mg QE/g dry extract) compared to leaves dried using the other tested methods (p<0.05). Additionally, microwave-dried P. bleo leaves displayed the highest DPPH inhibition (91.62%) and exhibited the most potent IC50 value (76.90 ± 1.06 µg/mL) compared to oven and shade-dried leaves (p<0.05). P. bleo leaves dried with a microwave also recorded a significantly higher FRAP value (62.66 ± 0.10 µg TE/g dry extract) than oven-dried leaves (p<0.05). In conclusion, microwave drying emerged to be an efficient drying method in preserving the colour and antioxidant properties of the P. bleo leaves, suggesting its potential as a favourable drying technique for retaining bioactive compounds in medicinal plant materials.

Effect of Different Drying Methods on Colour, Total Phenolic Content, Flavonoid Content, and Antioxidant Activity Retention of Strobilanthes crispus Leaves

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2024

Strobilanthes crispus, a medicinal herb, is recognised for its abundant phytochemicals, notably in its leaves, contributing to its high antioxidant activity. However, the crucial step of drying, aimed at extending shelf life, can impact the stability of these bioactive compounds. This study evaluates the impact of different drying methods, which include oven, microwave, freeze drying, and air drying, on the colour, phenolic and flavonoid content, and antioxidant activities of S. crispus leaves. The colour analysis of the fresh and dried leaves was assessed using the chromameter. Total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were determined using Folin-Ciocalteu’s and aluminium chloride colourimetric assays, respectively. Antioxidant capacities were analysed via ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. The results showed that microwave-dried S. crispus leaves exhibited minimal alterations in colour attributes L*, a*, and b*, closely resembling the fresh leaves (p > 0.05). Microwave drying significantly preserved TPC (145.42 ± 1.61 mg GAE/g), TFC (117.27 ± 5.10 mg QE/g), FRAP activity (258.92 ± 0.15 µg TE/g extract), and displayed the most potent DPPH scavenging half-maximal inhibitory concentration (7.58 ± 0.48 µg/ml) compared to other methods (p < 0.05). Notably, the DPPH scavenging potency surpassed that of the synthetic antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene. In conclusion, microwave drying appeared to be an efficient method for preserving the colour and antioxidant properties of S. crispus leaves. It highlights its potential as a favourable drying technique for conserving bioactive compounds in medicinal plant materials, offering promising applications in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical fields.

Chemical composition, antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of Schinus molle essential oil from Palapye

Conference Paper

Full-text available

Sep 2023

Plants have been a source of medical relief for diseases and ailments for millennia, and among this large list of medicinal plants includes the Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus molle). This species produces various compounds with antibacterial properties, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, and terpenes. This study was aimed at investigating the chemical composition, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity of S. molle essential oil extracts collected from Palapye on bacterial and yeast colonies as a means to determine the antimicrobial efficacy. Fruit and leaf essential oils of S. molle were extracted using ultrasonic-assisted hydrodistillation. Using gas-chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS), 19 compounds were identified from fruit essential oil while only two were identified from the leaf essential oil. Antioxidant activity measured by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) and total phenolic content (TPC) showed significantly higher antioxidant activity in the fruit essential oil as compared to the leaf counterpart. Furthermore, antimicrobial activity of the essential oils was determined against bacterial colonies of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, and the fungi C. albicans using agar disc diffusion assay. Our results showed one-third efficacy against bacteria as compared to the commercial broad-spectrum antibiotic Gentamicin, while there was no antibiotic activity observed against the fungi.

Antioxidant and antibacterial effect of lemon verbena leaves’ (Lippia citriodora) extract as a natural preservative on refrigerated meat patties during storage

Article

Full-text available

Jul 2024
ITAL J FOOD SCI

This study aims to determine the influence of adding lemon verbena leaf (LVL) extract on meat samples’ physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory properties. The ethanolic extracts (LVL-1, LVL-2, LVL-3, and LVL-4) revealed higher (p ≤ 0.05) content of phenolics and flavonoids than the aqueous extract (LVL-5). Then, LVL-1 extract was selected for antioxidant activity (DPPH) analysis (75.73%). LVLs’ ethanolic extracts at concen-trations of 0.0%, 0.5%, and 1.0% were added to meat samples. Redness parameters and organoleptic properties were significantly affected. However, LVL-1.0% was more efficient in reducing microbial growth up to day 12 of the storage period; therefore, 0.5% LVL reduced discoloration and lipid oxidation without affecting organoleptic properties. Cooking yield and hardness were decreased effectively at a concentration of LVL-1.0%. LVL extract effectively delayed the lipid oxidation of meat samples. Redness parameters were affected, and this was also noted in sensory analysis. Adding 0.5% (LVL-0.5%) revealed high efficiency in retarding lipid oxidation and improv-ing color stability in meat samples. In addition, no significant difference in sensory characteristics was identified between the experimental group and control treatments. Despite the beneficial effects on the fat peroxidation of meat patties, no level of LVL extract could delay microbiological degradation during storage at 4°C for 12 days. In this context, LVL extract is an alternate technique for producing meat and meat products with lower synthetic conservatives. Therefore, adding 0.5% LVL extract reduced discoloration and lipid oxidation without impacting sensory parameters, making it a viable option for processing meat samples. Finally, because no significant impacts (p ≥ 0.05) were found during the storage period when higher concentrations were utilized (LVL-1.0 %), the addi-tion of LVLs (LVL-0.5%) is more recommended for application in meat and meat products.

Comparative Antimicrobial Activity and Bioactive Constituents of Oils from Rhizomes of Zingiber Officinale Roscoe Obtained by Different Extraction Methods

Article

Full-text available

Jun 2024

Ginger, known for its rich array of bioactive compounds, holds significant therapeutic potential due to its diverse medicinal properties. This study investigated the antimicrobial activity and bioactive principles present in ginger rhizome oils obtained using three different extraction methods viz: liquid-liquid extraction, cold maceration, and soxhlet extraction. The oils’ bioactive principles were identified by Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) while their antimicrobial activity was determined by agar well diffusion technique. The GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of thirty compounds in each of the oils from liquid-liquid extraction and cold maceration, and fifty four compounds in the soxhlet-extracted oil. The most predominant compound in both liquid-liquid (31.13%) and cold maceration (16.99%) oils was oleic acid whereas the Soxhlet-extracted oil contained predominantly linoleic acid methyl ester (9.27%). Some bioactive compounds identified in these oils include δ-elemene, isoborneol, α-Bisabolol oxide, stearic acid, undecanone, palmitic acid, α-copaene, zingiberene, aromadendrene, farnesol, 2-methylhexane and farnesene which possess antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, anti-cancer, hypolipidemic, mosquito repellant, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic activities. Additionally, the oils exhibited promising antimicrobial potential against the test organisms with Staphylococcus aureus showing the least susceptibility to all the samples. Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans were completely resistant to the oil obtained by Soxhlet extraction at all tested concentrations. Meanwhile, Klebsiella pneumoniae (20 mm), Proteus vulgaris (18 mm), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (17 mm), were most susceptible to the oil obtained by liquid-liquid extraction, cold maceration and soxhlet extraction, respectively. The study highlighted the significance of extraction methods on the chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of ginger rhizome oils, underscoring the importance of choosing appropriate extraction techniques to optimize the oils' therapeutic properties for specific medicinal applications.

Essential oils in post-harvest disease management: Metabolic impact on Narince (Vitis vinifera L. cv) grapes against Botrytis cinerea

Article

May 2024
PHYSIOL MOL PLANT P

There is an urgent need for alternative, environmentally friendly post-harvest disease management solutions because of the growing concern over the use of chemical fungicides in agriculture and their detrimental impact on human health and the environment. This study examines the effects of thymol, eugenol, and 1,8-cineole essential oils on the sugar, organic acid, and amino acid profiles of 'Narince' grape berries as well as their effectiveness against gray mold (Botrytis cinerea). Our study has noted that the application of EOs, particularly eugenol, significantly alters the metabolic profile of 'Narince' grapes, enhancing sugar content and modifying the levels of organic acids and amino acids, which suggests a potential for improving grape quality and resistance to Botrytis cinerea. The combined use of eugenol with other EOs and fungicides, as indicated by the treatments OF and OSF, not only displayed a synergistic effect in elevating the concentration of key metabolites but also appeared to be more effective in combating fungal infection compared to individual EO applications. The PCA analysis and subsequent heatmap visualization revealed distinct metabolic clustering among the treatments, with combined EO treatments, especially those including eugenol, markedly influencing the amino acid profile of the berries. Our investigation's results suggest that EOs may offer a viable, eco-friendly alternative to traditional fungicides. Our study also adds to the body of knowledge supporting the advancement of integrated pest management strategies that are efficacious yet environmentally considerate, aligning with the global shift towards more sustainable practices in agriculture and food security.

Benzoate Derivatives Toxicity to Musca domestica Results in Severe Muscle Relaxation and Body Distortion

Article

May 2024
NEOTROP ENTOMOL

The house fy, Musca domestica (Linnaeus) (Diptera: Muscidae), is a signifcant threat to human and animal health and is also resistant to a variety of insecticides. Plant-derived benzoates are known to have insecticidal activities against various insects. In this study, the larvicidal, pupicidal, and adulticidal activities of benzoate derivatives (benzyl alcohol BA, benzyl benzoate BB, and methyl benzoate MB) were assessed and investigated for their efects on larval structure and acetylcholinesterase activity. Six concentrations (2.5 to 100 mg/mL) of benzoate derivatives were applied to larvae and pupae through the residual flm method and topical application, respectively. Meanwhile, concentrations from 0.625 to 50 mg/L air were applied to adult fies through a fumigation assay. BA and MB achieved promising results against larvae with LC50 values of 10.90 and 11.53 mg/mL, respectively. Moreover, BA killed 100% of the larvae at a concentration of 25 mg/mL, and MB achieved the same efect at a concentration of 50 mg/mL. Regarding the pupicidal activity, MB showed a percentage inhibition rate (PIR) of 100% at a concentration of 100 mg/mL, while the same efect was achieved by BA at a concentration of 50 mg/mL. Meanwhile, BB did not show any efect on the larvae or pupae at any of the tested concentrations. Moreover, the scanning microscopy observations on the treated larvae by BA and MB estimated faccid and deformity in the larva body with a shrunken cuticle. Additionally, both BA and MB suppress nerve signal transmission by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that BA and MB may be useful in control housefy populations. These substances cause severe muscular relaxation and deformities in insects.

Impact of hydrodistillation and steam distillation on the yield and chemical composition of essential oils and their comparison with modern isolation techniques

Article

Apr 2024

Protection of cowpea seeds and toxicity against cowpea weevils by the essential oils from Lippia alba (verbenaceae) and Schinus terebinthifolius (anacardiaceae)

Article

Mar 2024
CROP PROT

Artemisia arborescens (Vaill.) L.: Micromorphology, Essential Oil Composition, and Its Potential as an Alternative Biocontrol Product

Article

Full-text available

Mar 2024

Artemisia arborescens is a Mediterranean evergreen shrub, with silver grey-green tomentose leaves and a strong scent. It has various ethnopharmacological uses and its secondary metabolites have demonstrated antimicrobial, antiviral, pharmaceutical, phytotoxic, and insecticidal activities. Different extracts obtained from aerial parts of this species are known for their allelopathic effect, but similar studies on its essential oil (EO) are lacking. Therefore, we carried out a pharmacognostic study, obtaining the characterization of the secretory structures and the EO produced. Trans-thujone and camphor are the main components, followed by aromadendrene, camphene, and 8-cedren-13-ol. EO phytotoxic activity was tested on weed plants (Lolium multiflorum Lam. and Sinapis arvensis L.) and crops (Raphanus sativus L. and Cucumis sativus L.), showing inhibition on both germination and radical growth of the two weeds tested. The effects of the EO against the bacterial plant pathogens Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Gram−) and Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Gram+) was also assayed. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was observed when it was used undiluted [100% v/v], and growth inhibition when diluted at different doses. The antimicrobial activity was also confirmed by the cellular material release and biofilm formation assays. The overall data show that A. arborescens EO can find application as a potential alternative biocontrol product against weeds and plant pathogens. This goal is particularly important from the perspective of replacing synthetic pesticides with natural products, which safeguard both the environment and the health of consumers.

Monoterpenes and Diterpenes in Combating Alzheimer Disease, Mechanisms, and Clinical Insights: A Comprehensive Review

Article

Jan 2024

Caracterización del aceite esencial de clinopodium revolutum y estudio computacional de sus compuestos bioactivos contra el cáncer

Article

Full-text available

Mar 2023

El cáncer es una de las principales causas de muerte en todo el mundo. La búsqueda de compuestos bioactivos contra el cáncer se potencia con el uso de herramientas computacionales y las bases de datos moleculares. Clinopodium Revolutum (CR) es una planta empleada con fines medicinales en diferentes males, sin embargo, hacen falta mayores estudios científicos que respalden su bioactividad. En este trabajo se analizan 55 componentes en el aceite esencial de CR, identificados por GC-MS, con potencial actividad anticancerígena mediante estudios in silico. Se seleccionaron los receptores de fármacos anticancerígenos, como la quinasa dependiente de ciclina 2 (CDK-2), la quinasa dependiente de ciclina 6 (CDK-6), la topoisomerasa-I (Topo I), la topoisomerasa-II (Topo II), el linfoma B de células (Bcl-2) y el receptor 2 del factor crecimiento endotelial vascular (VEGFR-2). Todas estas estructuras fueron obtenidas del banco de datos de proteina PDB RCSB. Según las simulaciones de docking molecular se encontró que los compuestos perilaldehído y calamenene del aceite esencial presentaron mayor afinidad de interacción con las dianas farmacológicas CDK-2, CDK-6, Topo I y VEGFR. Los complejos de perilaldehido-receptor se simularon mediante dinámica molecular por 50 nanosegundos, identificando predominantemente interacciones hidrofóbicas y enlaces de hidrógeno intermediados por agua del solvente. Nuestros hallazgos muestran que los compuestos en el aceite esencial de CR presentan potencial actividad anticancerígena

Miticidal effect of Guajava pyrifera L. against Suidasia pontifica Oudemans

Article

Full-text available

Nov 2023

The present study aims to assess the bioactivity of guava leaf extract (GLE) against Suidasia pontifica, a stored grain mite. The current study aimed to analyze the chemical components and miticidal effect of GLE against the S. pontifica population. The generated information can be used in organic agriculture practices and promoting the utilization of natural products in managing stored product mite. Based on the biological responses of the test mite, the projected minimum effective concentration (MEC) of GLE that provides 100% mortality of mite population was 1.75 g/L. Fifty-four compounds were detected in GLE under GCMS analysis. The major constituents were the following: oleyl alcohol methyl ether (13.91%), γ-sitosterol (13.05%), globulol (8.26%), 10,10-dimethyl-2,6-dimethylenebicyclo[7.2.0]undecane (7.45%), α-terpineol (5.13%), and β-caryophyllene (4.58%). Meanwhile, GLE (1.75 g/L) is generally superior in volume concentration and potency to commercially available miticides in the market (coumaphos 2.00 g/L) regarding mite population control. It shows that the main chemical and other derivatives of GLE may have cooperated synergistically, augmenting the toxic activity that leads to death.

A Review on Seven Selected Essential Oils used as Aromatherapy to Maintain Sports Performance

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2023

Sivaphongthongchai A, Nakkliang K, Thetsana P, Seepika N, Thammarakkit T, Nopthaisong T, Phuneerub P. A Review on Seven Selected Essential Oils used as Aromatherapy to Maintain Sports Performance. JEPonline 2023;26(5):40-54. Aromatherapy is the science of holistic medicine for taking care of the human body and mind using pleasant smells of essential oils. Sports performance refers to carrying out physical routines or procedures by those who are trained or skilled in physical activity to achieve goals by meeting or surpassing specific standards. Essential oils widely used as aromatherapy in sports performance belong to three families. In Lamiaceae family, Lavendula angustifolia Mill (lavender) helps athletes recover from their training, and it is used as a massage oil in athletes. Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) helps improve fatigue, reduce the stress hormone levels and cure muscle spasm. Salvia officinalis L. (sage) improves mood, fatigue, memory performance and boosts cognitive function. Mentha x piperita (peppermint) helps stimulate, strengthen, and improve concentration, lung function, and physical performance. In Rutaceae family, Citrus sinensis (sweet orange) lowers physical and cognitive anxiety while improves lung function and exercise performance. Citrus limon (L.) Burm. f. (lemon) promotes repeated high-intensity exercise performance. In Poaceae family, 41 Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) promotes athletic performance, lung function, cognitive function, and alters mood. Aromatherapy is an alternative for athletes to maintain their sports performance.

The significance of essential oils and their antifungal properties in the food industry: A systematic review

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2023

Essential oils (EOs) are natural products called volatile oils or aromatic and ethereal oils derived from various parts of plants. They possess antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which offer natural protection against a variety of pathogens and spoilage microorganisms. Studies conducted in the last decade have demonstrated the unique applications of these compounds in the fields of the food industry, agriculture, and skin health. This systematic article provides a summary of recent data pertaining to the effectiveness of EOs and their constituents in combating fungal pathogens through diverse mechanisms. Antifungal investigations involving EOs were conducted on multiple academic platforms, including Google Scholar, Science Direct, Elsevier, Springer, Scopus, and PubMed, spanning from April 2000 to October 2023. Various combinations of keywords, such as “essential oil,” “volatile oils,” “antifungal,” and “Aspergillus species,” were used in the search. Numerous essential oils have demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo antifungal activity against different species of Aspergillus, including A. niger, A. flavus, A. parasiticus, A. fumigatus, and A. ochraceus. They have also exhibited efficacy against other fungal species, such as Penicillium species, Cladosporium, and Alternaria. The findings of this study offer novel insights into inhibitory pathways and suggest the potential of essential oils as promising agents with antifungal and anti-mycotoxigenic properties. These properties could make them viable alternatives to conventional preservatives, thereby enhancing the shelf life of various food products.

Phytochemical Composition and Pharmacological Activities of Three Essential Oils Collected from Eastern Morocco (Origanum compactum, Salvia officinalis, and Syzygium aromaticum): A Comparative Study

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2023

Throughout history, essential oils have been employed for their pleasing scents and poten- tial therapeutic benefits. These oils have shown promise in various areas, including aromatherapy, personal care products, natural remedies, and even as alternatives to traditional cleaning agents or pest control solutions. The study aimed to explore the chemical makeup, antioxidant, and antibacte- rial properties of Origanum compactum Benth., Salvia officinalis L., and Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. et Perry. Initially, the composition of the three essential oils, O. compactum (HO), S. officinalis (HS), and S. aromaticum (HC) was analyzed using GC-MS technology, revealing significant differences in the identified compounds. α-thujone emerged as the predominant volatile component in the oils, making up 78.04% of the composition, followed by eugenol, which constituted 72.66% and 11.22% of the HC and HO oils, respectively. To gauge antioxidant capabilities, tests involving DPPH scavenging capacity and total antioxidant capacity were conducted. Antioxidant activity was determined through the phosphomolybdate test and the DPPH• radical scavenging activity, with the HO essential oil displaying significant scavenging capacity (IC50 of 0.12 ± 0.02 mg/mL), similar to ascorbic acid (IC50 of 0.26 ± 0.24 mg/mL). Similarly, the TAC assay for HO oil revealed an IC50 of 1086.81 ± 0.32 µM AAE/mg. Additionally, the oils’ effectiveness against four bacterial strains, namely Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes, and five fungi, Geotrichum candidum, Aspergillus niger, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Candida glabrata, and Candida albicans, was tested in vitro. The examined essential oils generally exhibited limited antimicrobial effects, with the excep- tion of HC oil, which demonstrated an exceptionally impressive level of antifungal activity. In order to clarify the antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal effects of the identified plant compounds, we employed computational methods, specifically molecular docking. This technique involved studying the interactions between these compounds and established protein targets associated with antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal activities.

Sucupira oleoresin-based doxorubicin pH-sensitive nanoemulsions: A potential nanomedicine approach to enhance the safety profile and anticancer activity

Article

Oct 2024
J DRUG DELIV SCI TEC

Formulation of Garlic Essential Oil-assisted Silver Nanoparticles and Mechanistic Evaluation of their Antimicrobial Activity against a Spectrum of Pathogenic Microorganisms

Article

Jul 2024
CURR TOP MED CHEM

Background The synthesis of nanoparticles using the principle of green chemistry has achieved huge potential in nanomedicine. Here, we report the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag- NPs) employing garlic essential oil (GEO) due to wide applications of GEO in the biomedical and pharmaceutical industry. Objective This study aimed to synthesise garlic essential oil-assisted silver nanoparticles and present their antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities with mechanistic assessment. Method Initially, the formulation of AgNPs was confirmed using different optical techniques, such as XRD, FT-IR, DLS, zeta potential, SEM, and EDX analysis, which confirmed the formulation of well-dispersed, stable, and spherical AgNPs. The antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of GEO-assisted AgNPs was evaluated against a spectrum of pathogenic microorganisms, such as Gram-positive (S. aureus and B. subtilis) and Gram-negative (E. coli and P. aeruginosa) bacteria. Results The AgNPs exhibited remarkable antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity against all tested strains. The mechanism behind the antimicrobial activity of AgNPs was explored by estimating the amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated due to the interaction of AgNP with bacterial cells and observing the morphological changes of bacteria upon AgNP interaction. Conclusion: The findings of this study concluded that ROS generation due to the interaction of AgNPs with bacterial cells put stress on bacterial membranes, altering the morphology of bacteria, exhibiting remarkable antimicrobial activity, and preventing biofilm formation.

Factors influencing yield, chemical composition and efficacy of essential oils

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2024

Lydia G. Mugao

Essential oils are secondary metabolites that are produced by plants for the purpose of protection from pests, predators, attraction of pollinators and seed dispersal. The oil is produced in different parts of the plants and contains various chemical compounds that give plants a characteristic odour and flavor. These compounds vary between different plant species and also within plants of the same species. The yield and the efficacy of essential oils also vary between and within species. The variations in the essential oil compounds, the yield and the efficacy is influenced by both exogenous and endogenous factors. Endogenous factors such as plant age, plant density, plant genotype, part of the plant where the oil is extracted brings about variability in yield, chemical composition and the efficacy of essential oils. Similarly, exogenous factors such as light intensity and temperature, water availability, altitude and latitude, soil type and composition, preparation of the plant material before the essential oil extraction, method of extraction of the essential oil and the storage conditions after extraction also have a great influence on the chemical composition, yield and efficacy of essential oils. The factors then need to be moderated in order to ensure that the essential oil produced is of the quality required. Once extraction is done, proper storage conditions to avoid oxidation is necessary as the essential oils await to be used. They should be stored in dark cool conditions in tightly closed dark glass containers to ensure long term quality. Knowledge on the growth requirements of the individual plants that produce oils is necessary so as to produce quality oil.

Encapsulation of Alpinia leaf essential oil in nanophytosome-embedded gel as novel strategy to treat periodontal infections: evaluation of antimicrobial effectiveness, pharmacokinetic, in vitro-ex vivo correlation and in silico studies

Article

Full-text available

Jun 2024
J MICROENCAPSUL

Aim: The work reports a novel nanophytosomal gel encapsulating Alpinia galanga (L.) Willd leaf essential oil to treat periodontal infections. Methods: Alpinia oil-loaded nanophytosomes (ANPs) were formulated by lipid layer hydration technique and were evaluated by FESEM, cryo-TEM, loading efficiency, zeta potential, particle size, release profile etc. Selected ANPs-loaded gel (ANPsG) was evaluated by both in vitro and in vivo methods. Results: Selected ANPs were spherical, unilamellar, 49.32 ± 2.1 nm size, 0.45 PDI, -46.7 ± 0.8 mV zeta potential, 9.8 ± 0.5% (w/w) loading, 86.4 ± 3.02% (w/w) loading efficiency with sustained release profile. ANPsG showed good spreadability (6.8 ± 0.3 gm.cm/sec), extrudability (79.33 ± 1.5%), viscosity (36522 ± 0.82 cps), mucoadhesive strength (44.56 ± 3.5 gf) with sustained ex vivo release tendency. Satisfied ZOI and MIC was observed for ANPsG against periodontal bacteria vs. standard/control. ANPsG efficiently treated infection in ligature induced periodontitis model. Key pharmacokinetic parameters like AUC, MRT, Vd were enhanced for ANPsG. Conclusion: ANPsG may be investigated for futuristic clinical studies.

Essential oils pharmacological activity: Chemical markers, biogenesis, plant sources, and commercial products

Article

May 2024
PROCESS BIOCHEM

Secondary metabolites are often among the major players in plants’ function, stability, support, bioactivities, defense mechanisms, and therapeutic applications. One of the major components of these metabolites is volatile oils. Essential oils are considered one of the most important ways in which plants express themselves through aroma. The oils are also one of the reasons for therapy, mood-upliftment, life processes, plants and dependent organisms’ survival, joy, happiness, aesthetic beauty, and attractions in several realms, as well as for various interactive species, including insects, animals, and humans. In addition, essential oils participate in modern industries and worldwide healthcare systems. Aromatic plants and their extracted and distilled volatile oils have been used in different systems of traditional medicine and in all ancient civilizations. They are also still used as part of modern healthcare systems and in folkloric therapeutic and prophylactic applications. Therefore, the chemistry, bio-based diversity, geographic sources, biological activities, and clinical applications of volatile oils have gained the momentum and continued attention of researchers, culminating in several thousand publications each year. This review provides updated information on the biological activities and current applications of essential oils in medicine and other healthcare uses. The underlined biomechanistic details of the volatile oils’ biological effects are also encompassed. The collected data unambiguously supported the biological importance of this class of secondary metabolites, especially in cancer, inflammation, and microbial infection management. The information contained in the data also highlighted the therapeutic importance of these molecules in various aspects of medicine.

Essential Oil Composition and Biological Activities of Microtoena insuavis from Vietnam

Article

May 2024

Bui B. Thinh

The major constituents of M. insuavis essential oil were 1-octen-3-ol (32.5%), patchouli alcohol (27.4%), and α-guaiene (15.8%); additionally, considerable amounts of α-bulnesene (2.4%), β-patchulene (2.3%), terpinolene (1.5%), 1-octen-3-yl acetate (1.2%), and β-caryophyllene (1.1%) were detected.

Essential Oils’ Biosynthesis and their Application

Chapter

Apr 2024

Aromatherapy is a medical practice that uses aromatic compounds or essential oils to influence mood and health. Essential oils used in aromatherapy are created from a wide variety of medicinal plants, flowers, herbs, roots, and trees that are found all over the world and have significant, well-documented benefits on enhancing physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. This book is a comprehensive reference on aromatic compounds present in essential oils and their therapeutic use. Starting from fundamentals of essential oil biosynthesis the book guides the reader through their basic biochemistry, toxicology, profiling, blending and clinical applications. The concluding chapters also present focused information about the therapeutic effects of essential oils on specific physiological systems, plant sources, skin treatment and cancer therapeutics. The combination of basic and applied knowledge will provide readers with all the necessary information for understanding how to develop preclinical formulations and standard clinical therapies with essential oils. This is an essential reference for anyone interested in aromatherapy and the science of essential oils.

Therapeutic Applications and Pharmacological Practices of Essential Oils

Chapter

Apr 2024

Plant as Potential Resources for Efficacious Essential Oils: Underpinning Aromatherapy Evolution

Chapter

Full-text available

Apr 2024

Human Organs System and Essential Oils (EOs)

Chapter

Apr 2024

Determination of essential oil components of Ammi L. genus in Türkiye and their effects on some storage pests

Article

Apr 2024

Effects of essential oil components obtained by hydrodistillation of Ammi genus members (Ammi majus L., Ammi visnaga L. (Lam.)), which have important chemical and active components were investigated against two important storage pests; fig borer Cadra cautella (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and flour moth Ephestia kuehniella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). A total of 23 and 14 components were detected in A. majus and A. visnaga, respectively, and the product yield was found to be 96.05%, 82.53%. Among them, the major components for A. majus are 2 heptadecanone, benzoic acid, 2 pentadecanone while for A. visnaga they are linalol, nonadecane, carvacrol. Essential oil of A. visnaga extended the adult emergence times in E. kuehniella and C. cautella while the increase in pupation time was found statistically significant only in E. kuehniella. A. visnaga essential oil reduced the adult life span in E. kuehniella at the highest dose while a decrease was detected in both doses applied in C. cautella. Adult weight and number of eggs decreased due to the application of A. visnaga in both insects. Also, alterations were observed in the adult emergence, pupation time, and pupal period. In E. kuehniella and C. cautella, adult life spans, weights and egg production of females showed statistically significant decreases depending on the application of A. majus essential oil. The findings obtained within the scope of the current study reveal that the essential oils of A. majus and A. visnaga species have the potential to be used in the control of storage pest insects.

Evaluation of activity of Matricaria chamomilla against Leishmania amazonensis

Article

Full-text available

Mar 2024

Leishmaniasis is a tropical disease caused by different species of Leishmania. The available treatments have limitations linked to high toxicity and low efficacy. Thus, the search for new antileishmanial compounds is needed. Since Matricaria chamomilla L. have several activities described in literature, the aim of this search was to obtain crude extract and fractions of M. chamomilla and to evaluate the activity against the evolutionary forms of Leishmania amazonensis. Floral chapters of M. chamomilla were preserved in 95% ethanol for 12 days and lyophilized to obtain the crude extract (CE). Then, with the aid of a separating funnel and organic solvents, hexane (FHE), ethyl acetate (FEA) and hydromethanolic (FHM) fractions were obtained. The CE and the fractions were tested in vitro against the promastigote and intracellular amastigotes forms and the macrophage cell line J774A.1. The results were plotted on graphs and the IC50 was determined in relation to the control. In view of the evolutionary forms of L. amazonensis, FHE presented the best results, with the IC50 for promastigotes of 14.2 µg/mL, with a selectivity index (IS) of 8.15; Against amastigotes, FHE showed an IC50 of 53.84 and IS of 2.13. Further studies should be conducted to elucidate FHE's antileishmanial actions.

Terpenoids in Essential Oils: Chemistry, Classification, and Potential Impact on Human Health and Industry

Article

Mar 2024

Exploration and Characterization of the Diverse Bioactive Constituents Present in Citrus Fruit Peels: An In-Depth Study on Their Functional Properties and Potential Health Benefits

Conference Paper

Nov 2023

Therapeutic Phytoconstituents-I

Chapter

Jan 2024

Phytoconstituents are compounds present in plants which performs various functions to protect plant’s vitality. Besides awarding tremendous benefits to plants, phytoconstituents also provides several benefits to human beings. There are two types of metabolites synthesized in plants, primary and secondary. Primary metabolites are essential for the growth and development of the plant while secondary metabolites play important role in plant defence. These secondary metabolites or phytochemicals are used as drugs, detoxifying agents, flavourings, cardioprotective agents, antioxidants, anti-cancer agents, antimicrobial agent etc. phytoconstituents play a significant role in the secondary metabolism of plants. They only exist in trace amounts and typically have pharmacological effects. They have health promoting properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and disease preventing properties too. Moreover, they also serve as attractants for pollinators and seed-dispersing agents. Major classes of secondary metabolites are terpenes, phenolic compounds, glycosides and alkaloids. Phenolic compounds are the largest group of phytoconstituents.

Polymers with a Thymol End Group for Durable Antibacterial Cotton Fabrics

Article

Jan 2024

Extraction of essential oils

Chapter

Jan 2024

Computational Insights in Drug-likeness and ADMT Properties of -dienes Resemble of GeranialGeranial benzeri -dienlerin İlaç Benzerliği ve ADMT Özelliklerine İlişkin Hesaplamalı Analizler

Article

Jun 2023

Goncagül Serdaroğlu

This research aims to analyze the drug development potential of geranial, a naturally occurring compound known for its medicinal properties, through in-depth ADMT (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Toxicity) profiling and Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, at B3LYP/6-311G** level and basis set. The optimized and confirmed structures of the data set were used for further computations. The FMO "Frontier Molecular Orbital" energies and MEP "Molecular Electrostatic Potential" were considered to elucidate the possible reactivity features and regions of the molecules, respectively. Concurrently, DFT calculations helped to elucidate the compound's electronic properties and structural stability, further affirming its suitability for drug development. These findings emphasize the potential of compounds structurally related to geranial in the pharmaceutical field and underline the necessity of similar evaluations for novel drug candidates, ensuring safety and efficacy while mitigating potential risks to human health and the environment.

Effectiveness of Oregano and Thyme Essential Oils as Alternatives for Sulfur Dioxide in Controlling Decay and Gray Mold and Maintaining Quality of ‘Flame Seedless’ Table Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) during Cold Storage

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2023

The current study was carried out over two seasons (2020 and 2021) to assess the effects of preharvest treatments with oregano and thyme essential oils (EOs) as an alternative to the traditional use of sulfur dioxide (SO2) during cold storage of grape clusters cv. Flame Seedless. Grapevines were sprayed with oregano or thyme essential oils at 2000 or 4000 µL/L two days before harvest. The results confirmed that oregano and thyme EOs treatments reduced the physiological loss in weight, decay incidence, gray mold, rachis browning index, and berry shattering as compared to sulfur dioxide and untreated fruits. In addition, EOs had higher marketable percentage, firmness, and visual appearance cluster scores, while they reduced the deterioration in titratable acidity (TA) and ascorbic acid (AsA) contents, slowing the increases in soluble solids content (SSC) and SSC/TA ratio of berries, and improving total anthocyanin content. Moreover, these EOs delayed berry activities of polyphenol oxidase (PPO), peroxidase (POX), and pectin methylesterase (PME) enzymes during cold storage. Results suggest that preharvest application with either oregano or thyme EOs at 2000 µL/L might be a promising eco-friendly and safe candidate as an alternative to conventional SO2 used to control decay incidence and gray mold rot caused by Botrytis cinerea, and the EOs were effective in maintaining the quality of grape clusters during cold storage for up to 45 days

Recent progress on drugs discovery study for treatment of COVID-19: repurposing existing drugs and current natural bioactive molecules

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2023

COVID-19 has been a major global health concern for the past three years, and currently we are still experiencing coronavirus patients in the following years. The virus, known as SARS-CoV-2, shares a similar genomic identity with previous viruses such as SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV. To combat the pandemic, modern drugs discovery techniques such as in silico experiments for docking and virtual screening have been employed to design new drugs against COVID-19. However, the release of new drugs for human use requires two safety assessment steps consisting of preclinical and clinical trials. To bypass these steps, scientists are exploring the potential of repurposing existing drugs for COVID-19 treatment. This approach involves evaluating antiviral activity of drugs previously used for treating respiratory diseases against other enveloped viruses such as HPV, HSV, and HIV. The aim of this study is to review repurposing of existing drugs, traditional medicines, and active secondary metabolites from plant-based natural products that target specific protein enzymes related to SARS-CoV-2. The review also analyzes the chemical structure and activity relationship between selected active molecules, particularly flavonol groups, as ligands and proteins or active sites of SARS-CoV-2.

Chemical Composition and Insecticidal Activities of Blumea balsamifera (Sambong) Essential Oil Against Three Stored Product Insects

Article

Dec 2023
J FOOD PROTECT

Antimicrobial and antioxidant effects of an edible coating of Lepidium sativum seed mucilage and Satureja hortensis L. essential oil in Uncooked lamb meat

Article

Nov 2023
FOOD CONTROL

Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Essential oil Extracted from Trachyspermum Ammi (ajwain) Seeds: an In-vitro Study

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2023

The food industry uses essential oils derived from natural sources as flavouring and preservatives. The purpose of this study is to investigate how temperature affects the essential oil extracted from Trachyspermum ammi, seeds which has the best antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, in order to find a green substitute for toxic chemically produced preservatives used in food and pharmaceutical chemistry. Trachyspermum ammi (ajwain seeds) seeds were hydrodistilled at various temperatures (60°C to 90°C). The amount of essential oil was found to decrease on increasing temperature (2.1ml, 1.5 ml and 1.0 ml at 70°C, 80°C, and 90°C respectively). Hence, 70°C was the ideal temperature for extracting the essential oil from ajwain seeds. 25 components were discovered in the essential oil extracted from ajwain seeds by GC-MS technique. The predominant ingredient was shown to be thymol (31.40%). The percentages of scavenger activity against hydrogen peroxide were 70.75%, 86.99%, and 95.28% for 70°C, 80°C, and 90°C respectively. Due to the presence of the largest concentration of thymol (67.66%), the results showed that essential oil extracted at 90°C demonstrated the highest level of antioxidant property. By using the disc diffusion method, the antimicrobial activity of an essential oil made from ajwain seeds was evaluated. MIC50 of standard essential oil of Trachyspermum ammi seeds against gram positive strain was observed 10 µL/mL of culture and 25µL/mL of culture was observed against gram negative bacteria. Essential oil extracted at 70°C showed antimicrobial activity by forming zones of inhibition with diameters including discs of 18.3 mm and 14.36 mm against S. aureus and E. coli, respectively. Essential oil extracted at 80°C produced zones of inhibition with diameters of 18.68 mm and 15.30 mm, respectively. In the case of essential oil extracted at 90°C, the zones of inhibition against S. aureus and E. coli had diameters of 18.690.3 mm and 15.38 mm, respectively. As a result, using Trachyspermum ammi essential oil as a food preservative and the temperature at which it is extracted are unaffected by an increase in extraction temperature. Hence, essential oil obtained from Trachyspermum ammi seeds can be used as green alternative of chemically synthesized toxic preservatives used in food and pharmaceutical chemistry.

Essential oils and their nanoformulations for breast cancer therapy

Article

Full-text available

Nov 2023
PHYTOTHER RES

Breast Cancer (BC) is the most prevalent type of cancer in the world. Current treatments include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy but often are associated with high toxicity to normal tissues, chemoresistance, and relapse. Thus, developing novel therapies which could combat these limitations is essential for effective treatment. In this context, phytochemicals are increasingly getting popular due to their safety profile , ability to efficiently target tumors, and circumvent limitations of existing treatments. Essential Oils (EOs) are mixtures of various phytochemicals which have shown potential anticancer activity in preclinical BC models. However, their clinical translation is limited by factors such as high volatility, low stability, and poor solubil-ity. Nanotechnology has facilitated their encapsulation in a variety of nanostructures and proven to overcome these limitations. In this review, we have efficiently summarized the current knowledge on the anticancer effect of EOs and constituents in both in in vitro and in in vivo BC models. Further, we also provide a descriptive account on the potential of nanotechnology in enhancing the anti-BC activity of EOs and their constituents. The papers discussed in this review were selected using the keywords "antiproliferative Essential Oils in breast cancer," "anticancer activity of Essential Oil in breast cancer," and "cytotoxicity of Essential Oils in breast cancer" performed in PubMed and ScienceDirect databases. K E Y W O R D S

Chemical compositions, antimicrobial activity and mosquito larvicidal actions of essential oils from the leaves and fruits of two Rutaceae family of plants from Vietnam

Article

Oct 2023

Caccinia macranthera Brand var. macranthera: Phytochemical analysis, phytotoxicity and antimicrobial investigations of essential oils with concomitant in silico molecular docking based on OPLS force-field

Article

Sep 2023
TOXICON

Innovative and Eco-friendly methods and pretreatments for essential oil extraction: an update

Chapter

Jan 2023

The Use of Bergamot Essential Oil for PTSD Symptomology: A Qualitative Study

Article

Aug 2023

i>Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a multi-faceted, symptomatic mental health diagnosis often accompanied with various physical and psychological comorbidities. The complexity of this diagnosis makes treatment difficult, thereby suggesting that all options, including alternative approaches to care, should be explored. Aromatherapy from plant essential oils is an increasingly utilized integrative health modality. Essential oils are lipophilic, volatile aromatic metabolites in plants consisting of various natural chemical constituents that permeate the blood stream and influence neurobiological responses. This qualitative phenomenological study sought to understand the impact of aromatherapy from Bergamot essential oil on managing PTSD symptomology. A two-week pilot study was conducted consisting of 12 first responder, medical, firefighter and military men and women presenting with symptoms of PTSD in San Diego, California. Data collected from the interviews identified that the bergamot essential oil produced a calming effect, improved sleep, reduced anxiety, increased positive mood, enhanced concentration and reduced avoidance behavior. Participants in the research study reported that aromatherapy of bergamot essential oil helped mitigate certain symptoms of PTSD from the symptom clusters of arousal, negative mood, and avoidance behavior. This modality could help practitioners and treatment clinics facilitate an adaptive recovery, by providing a calm and safe atmosphere to engage with clients to execute trauma focused therapy more effectively. Aromatherapy provides a non-invasive and promising modality that would best serve the mental health field for practitioners and their overseeing organizations to further research, educate and implement this therapy in facilitating an adaptive recovery and management of PTSD symptoms.</i

Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil of oregano ( Origanum floribundum Munby.) endemic to northern Algeria

Article

Jul 2023

Screening for Antiviral Activities of Isolated Compounds from Essential Oils

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2011
EVID-BASED COMPL ALT

Essential oil of star anise as well as phenylpropanoids and sesquiterpenes, for example, trans-anethole, eugenol, β-eudesmol, farnesol, β-caryophyllene and β-caryophyllene oxide, which are present in many essential oils, were examined for their antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in vitro. Antiviral activity was analyzed by plaque reduction assays and mode of antiviral action was determined by addition of the drugs to uninfected cells, to the virus prior to infection or to herpesvirus-infected cells. Star anise oil reduced viral infectivity by >99%, phenylpropanoids inhibited HSV infectivity by about 60-80% and sesquiterpenes suppressed herpes virus infection by 40-98%. Both, star anise essential oil and all isolated compounds exhibited anti-HSV-1 activity by direct inactivation of free virus particles in viral suspension assays. All tested drugs interacted in a dose-dependent manner with herpesvirus particles, thereby inactivating viral infectivity. Star anise oil, rich in trans-anethole, revealed a high selectivity index of 160 against HSV, whereas among the isolated compounds only β-caryophyllene displayed a high selectivity index of 140. The presence of β-caryophyllene in many essential oils might contribute strongly to their antiviral ability. These results indicate that phenylpropanoids and sesquiterpenes present in essential oils contribute to their antiviral activity against HSV.

Insecticidal and Insect-repellent Activities of Essential Oils from Verbenaceae and Anacardiaceae Against Rhizopertha dominica

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2009
NAT PROD COMMUN

Essential oils extracted from leaves of Aloysia polystachya and A. citriodora (Verbenaceae) and from leaves and fruits of Schinus molle var. areira (Anacardiaceae) were tested for their repellent and toxic activities against adults of Rhizopertha dominica (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae). Topical application and filter paper assays were employed for contact toxicity studies; filter paper impregnation was also used for fumigant and repellent assays. In topical tests A. polystachya was as effective as S. molle leaves. In the case of repellent assays, A. citriodora was the most effective oil based on the class scale. A. polystachya was the most toxic plant on contact toxicity by filter paper assay (LC50 26.6 mg/cm2). Fumigant toxicity was only evaluated with fruits and leaves of S. molle, and no significant differences were found between them. Published data are included to compare the fumigant toxicity of S. molle with that of A. citridora and A. polystachya.

Essential Oil Composition and Antioxidant Capacity of Lippia schomburgkiana

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2009
NAT PROD COMMUN

The leaves and fine stems of Lippia schomburgkiana recorded an essential yield of 1.8%, the main constituents of which were 1,8-cineole (64.1%) and alpha-terpineol (12.0%). The methanol extract of L. schomburgkiana inhibited the DPPH radical, resulting in an EC50 value of 16.1 +/- 0.7 microg x mL(-1), which is only three times lower than that of trolox (4.7 +/- 0.4 microg x mL(-1)), signifying a high antioxidant activity for the species. The amount of total phenolics (376.7 +/- 35.5 mg GAE/g) and the trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (327.0 +/- 24.8 mg TE/g) of the methanol extract confirmed the significant antioxidative capacity of this plant. The brine shrimp bioassay carried out on the oil (49.6 +/- 0.4 microg x mL(-1)) showed high toxicity, providing important evidence of its biological activity. The sensory evaluation of the leaves of L. schomburgkiana showed a percentage acceptance value very close to commercial oregano, indicating that the plant can be used in spice and condiment products.

Essential oil Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Pterocarya fraxinifolia

Article

Full-text available

Jul 2009

Current research into free radicals has confirmed that plants rich in antioxidants play an essential role in the prevention of many diseases. The potential antioxidant activities of Pterocarya fraxinifolia bark and leaves investigated employing six in vitro assay systems. IC50 for DPPH radical-scavenging activities were 3.89 +/- 0.09 for leaves and 41.57 +/- 1.30 microg mL(-1) for bark, respectively. The leaf extract exhibited a good reducing power at 2.5 and 80 microg mL(-1) that was comparable with Vit C (p > 0.05). The extracts also showed weak nitric oxide-scavenging activity and Fe2+ chelating ability. The peroxidation inhibition of extracts exhibited values from 92 to 93% at 72nd h, almost at the same pattern of Vitamin C activity (p > 0.05). Based on higher total phenol and flavonoid contents in leaves, higher antioxidant activities were observed in leaf extract. In addition, chemical composition of leaf essential oil was determined. The major compound was bisabolol oxide A (23.6%). Sesquiterpenes and monoterpenes are the major compounds in leaves essential oil. Presence of these compounds may be a reason for the good antioxidant activity of leaf extract.

Composition, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of the Essential Oil of Marrubium deserti

Article

Full-text available

Aug 2009
NAT PROD COMMUN

The essential oil from aerial part of Marrubium deserti De Noé (Lamiaceae), obtained by hydrodistillation was analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and evaluated for in vitro antimicrobial activity. The antioxidant activity was determined using three in vitro assays: scavenging effect on DPPH, the ABTS test and the phosphomolybdenum method. Thirty-seven compounds were identified in the oil, with germacrene D as the major component (45.7%). This oil was characterized by an important hydrocarbon fraction (78.1%) and by the predominance of sesquiterpenes (67.4%). M. deserti essential oil had no activity on the tested microorganisms (Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Echerichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavus). However the oil presented an antioxidant activity.

Chemical Composition, Olfactory Evaluation and Antioxidant Effects of Essential Oil from Mentha x piperita

Article

Full-text available

Aug 2009
NAT PROD COMMUN

The chemical composition of the essential oil from peppermint (Mentha x piperita L.) was analyzed by GC/FID and GC-MS. The main constituents were menthol (40.7%) and menthone (23.4%). Further components were (+/-)-menthyl acetate, 1,8-cineole, limonene, beta-pinene and beta-caryophyllene. Peppermint oil possessed antiradical activity with respect to DPPH (diphenyl picryl hydrazyl) and hydroxyl (OH*) radicals, exercising stronger antioxidant impact on the OH* radical. The concentrations required for 50% inhibition of the respective radical (IC50) were 860 microg/mL for DPPH and 0.26 microg/mL for OH*. Peppermint essential oil demonstrated antioxidant activity in a model linoleic acid emulsion system in terms of inhibiting conjugated dienes formation by 52.4% and linoleic acid secondary oxidized products generation by 76.9% (at 0.1% concentration).

Chemical Composition, Olfactory Evaluation and Antioxidant Effects of Essential Oil from Mentha Canadensis

Article

Full-text available

Jul 2009
NAT PROD COMMUN

The chemical composition of the essential oil from cornmint (Mentha canadensis L.) was analyzed by GC/FID and GC-MS. The main constituents were menthol (41.2%) and menthone (20.4%). It was established that cornmint oil had antiradical activity with respect to the DPPH and hydroxyl (OH*) radicals. The concentrations necessary for 50% neutralization of the respective radicals (IC50) were 365.0 microg/mL for DPPH and 0.3 microg/mL for OH*, which was indicative that the antioxidant activity in terms of OH* was higher than that of quercetin. Cornmint oil chelated the Fe3+ ions present in the solution. The oil demonstrated antioxidant activity in a linoleic acid emulsion model system, where at 0.1% concentration it inhibited the formation of conjugated dienes by 57.1% and the generation of secondary oxidized products of linoleic acid by 76.1%.

Repellent activity of essential oils: A review

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2009

Currently, the use of synthetic chemicals to control insects and arthropods raises several concerns related to environment and human health. An alternative is to use natural products that possess good efficacy and are environmentally friendly. Among those chemicals, essential oils from plants belonging to several species have been extensively tested to assess their repellent properties as a valuable natural resource. The essential oils whose repellent activities have been demonstrated, as well as the importance of the synergistic effects among their components are the main focus of this review. Essential oils are volatile mixtures of hydrocarbons with a diversity of functional groups, and their repellent activity has been linked to the presence of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. However, in some cases, these chemicals can work synergistically, improving their effectiveness. In addition, the use of other natural products in the mixture, such as vanillin, could increase the protection time, potentiating the repellent effect of some essential oils. Among the plant families with promising essential oils used as repellents, Cymbopogon spp., Ocimum spp. and Eucalyptus spp. are the most cited. Individual compounds present in these mixtures with high repellent activity include alpha-pinene, limonene, citronellol, citronellal, camphor and thymol. Finally, although from an economical point of view synthetic chemicals are still more frequently used as repellents than essential oils, these natural products have the potential to provide efficient, and safer repellents for humans and the environment.

Acaricidal Activities of Major Constituents of Essential Oil of Juniperus chinensis Leaves against House Dust and Stored Food Mites

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2009

The acaricidal activities of major constituents from the oil of Juniperus chinensis (var. globosa) leaves were compared with those of DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) by using impregnated fabric disk bioassay against Dermatophagoides spp. and Tyrophagus putrescentiae. Toxicity varied with doses as well as chemical composition. The 50% lethal doses (LD50) of J. chinensis oil against Dermatophagoides farinae, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, and T. putrescentiae were 21.60, 19.89, and 38.10 microg/cm2, respectively. The active constituent was purified using silica gel chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. The acaricidal component was identified as bomyl acetate through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 13C-NMR, 1H-13C shift correlation spectrum-NMR, and distortionless enhancement by polarization transfer-NMR. The LD50 of bornyl acetate (2.94 microg/cm2) against D. farinae was significantly lower than those of DEET (37.13 microg/cm2) and alpha-eudesmol (29.72 microg/cm2). Similar results were observed when bomyl acetate and alpha-eudesmol were tested against D. pteronyssinus and T. putrescentiae. The lower LD50 of bornyl acetate indicates that it may be responsible for the major acaricidal activity against house dust and stored food mites, even though it constitutes only 19.5% of J. chinensis oil. Overall, these findings indicated that bornyl acetate and c-eudesmol have potential for use as control agents against house dust and stored food mites.

Chemical composition and biological activity of the essential oil obtained from Bupleurum marginatum (Apiaceae)

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2009

Bupleurum marginatum is a herb indigenous to the southern and southwestern part of China. It is widely used in many Chinese prescriptions. We aimed to investigate the chemical composition, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and in-vitro cytotoxic activity of the hydrodistilled and extracted essential oil from B. marginatum to validate some of its ethnopharmacologial uses. The essential oil of the aerial parts of B. marginatum was analysed by capillary gas chromatography (GLC/FID) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GLC/MS). The ability of the oil to reduce diphenylpicrylhydrazine (DPPH(.)) and to prevent the degradation of deoxyribose were used to evaluate the antioxidant activity. Inhibition of both prostaglandin E(2) production and lipoxygenase were used to assess the anti-inflammatory activity. Antimicrobial activity was studied in vitro against a range of bacteria and fungi. The in-vitro cytotoxicity of the essential oil on six human cancer cell lines (HepG2, Caco-2, CCRF-CEM, HeLa, MiaPaCa-2 and MCF-7) was examined using the MTT assay. Seventy-two components, comprising almost 94.29% of the total peak area, were identified in the analysis. The main components were tridecane (13.18%), undecane (10.42%), pentadecane (8.71%), beta-caryophyllene (5.53%) and beta-caryophyllene oxide (5.29%). The ability of the oil to reduce diphenylpicrylhydrazine (DPPH(.)) and to prevent the degradation of deoxyribose were used to evaluate the antioxidant activity and the corresponding IC50 values (drug concentration which resulted in a 50% reduction in inhibition of the activity) were found to be 3.66 mg/ml and 17.4 microg/ml, respectively. Inhibition of both prostaglandin E(2) production and lipoxygenase were used to assess the anti-inflammatory activity (IC50 of 63.64 microg/ml for lipoxygenase, 26.04% inhibition of prostaglandin E(2) at 25 microg/ml dose). The oil also showed a significant in-vitro antimicrobial activity against Gram positive pathogens (Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus agalactiae) with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 0.125 up to 4.00 mg/ml. The in-vitro cytotoxicity of the essential oil on six human cancer cell lines (HepG2, Caco-2, CCRF-CEM, HeLa, MiaPaCa-2 and MCF-7) examined using the MTT assay revealed the highest activity to be in the CCRF-CEM cell line with an IC50 (concentration which resulted in a 50% reduction in cell viability) of 46.01 microg/ml after 24 h treatment. The essential oil of B. marginatum exhibited a promising anti-inflammatory activity along with strong cytotoxicity against many cancer cells (CCRF-CEM and HepG2) mediated through induction of apoptosis, and this in-vitro activity make its local traditional uses rational. However, its limited antimicrobial activity indicates that a combination with other drugs is essential for effective use. Further selectivity testing is required to evaluate the effect of the oil against normal cells.

Antinociceptive effects of the essential oil of Mentha x villosa leaf and its major constituent piperitenone oxide in mice

Article

Full-text available

Aug 2009

Mentha x villosa Huds (Labiatae) is an aromatic herb widely used in folk medicine. Since the essential oil of the herb has many pharmacological activities, including antispasmodic effects, we determined whether the oil and its major constituent, piperitenone oxide (PO), have antinociceptive activity. The essential oil of M. x villosa (EOMV) and PO administered orally at 200 mg/kg (vehicle: 0.1% Tween 80 in water) significantly reduced the writhings induced by acetic acid from control values of 59.5 +/- 3.1 s (N = 10) to 31.9 +/- 2.8 s (N = 10) and 23.8 +/- 3.4 s (N = 10), respectively. When administered at 100 and 200 mg/kg, EOMV reduced the paw licking time for the second phase of the formalin test from the control value of 20.6 +/- 2.1 s (N = 13) to 5.3 +/- 2.2 s (N = 12) and 2.7 +/- 1.2 s (N = 18), respectively. At 100 and 200 mg/kg, PO reduced this second phase to 8.3 +/- 2.7 s (N = 12) and 3.0 +/- 1.2 s (N = 10), respectively. This effect of EOMV and PO was not reversed by naloxone. EOMV and PO had no significant effect on the first phase of the formalin test. As evaluated by the hot-plate and tail immersion test, EOMV and PO, at doses up to 200 mg/kg, showed no analgesic activity. These results show that EOMV and PO have antinociceptive activity and suggest that this effect is probably an indirect anti-inflammatory effect, which does not involve the central nervous system.

Carvacrol, a component of thyme oil, activates PPARalpha and gamma and suppresses COX-2 expression

Article

Full-text available

Aug 2009

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), the rate-limiting enzyme in prostaglandin biosynthesis, plays a key role in inflammation and circulatory homeostasis. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are ligand-dependent transcription factors belonging to the nuclear receptor superfamily and are involved in the control of COX-2 expression, and vice versa. Here, we show that COX-2 promoter activity was suppressed by essential oils derived from thyme, clove, rose, eucalyptus, fennel, and bergamot in cell-based transfection assays using bovine arterial endothelial cells. Moreover, from thyme oil, we identified carvacrol as a major component of the suppressor of COX-2 expression and an activator of PPARalpha and gamma. PPARgamma-dependent suppression of COX-2 promoter activity was observed in response to carvacrol treatment. In human macrophage-like U937 cells, carvacrol suppressed lipopolysaccharide-induced COX-2 mRNA and protein expression, suggesting that carvacrol regulates COX-2 expression through its agonistic effect on PPARgamma. These results may be important in understanding the antiinflammatory and antilifestyle-related disease properties of carvacrol.

Effects of limonene and essential oil from Citrus aurantium on gastric mucosa: Role of prostaglandins and gastric mucus secretion

Article

Full-text available

Jun 2009

Essential oil from Citrus aurantium and the monoterpene limonene are widely used flavoring agents that are found in some common food items. This specie is also used medicinally throughout the world to treat gastritis and gastric disorders. Therefore, biological assays were performed in vivo on essential oil of C. aurantium (OEC) and its majority compound limonene (LIM) to evaluate their effect on gastric mucosa. The OEC (250 mg/kg, p.o.) and LIM (245 mg/kg, p.o.) provided effective (99%) gastroprotection against lesions induced by absolute ethanol and NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) in rats. OEC and LIM do not interfere with gastric H(+) secretion, serum gastrin or glutathione (GSH) level in gastric mucosa. But the gastroprotective action of OEC and LIM occurs due to an increase in the gastric mucus production induced by conserving the basal PGE(2) levels after challenge by agents harmful to the gastric mucosa. Given that LIM and OEC are excellent flavoring agents and also present gastroprotective actions, they can be regarded as a promising target for the development of a new drug for the prevention of gastric damage.

Abies koreana Essential Oil Inhibits Drug-Resistant Skin Pathogen Growth and LPS-Induced Inflammatory Effects of Murine Macrophage

Article

Full-text available

May 2009
LIPIDS

Since acne vulgaris is the combined result of a bacterial infection and the inflammatory response to that infection, we examined whether Abies koreana essential oil (AKE) possessed anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities against skin pathogens. In this study, AKE showed excellent antibacterial activities against drug-susceptible and -resistant Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis, which are acne-causing bacteria. In addition, AKE reduced the LPS-induced secretion of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), IL-6, NO and PGE(2) in RAW 264.7 cells, indicating that it has anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, we suggest that AKE may be an attractive candidate for promoting skin health.

Protection of cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity in reproductive tract histology, sperm characteristics, and DNA damage by an herbal source; Evidence for role of free-radical toxic stress

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2008
HUM EXP TOXICOL

Cyclophosphamide (CP) as an anticancer alkylating agent has been known as a male reproductive tract toxicant. The aim of this study was to examine whether Satureja khuzestanica essential oil (SKEO) as an established herbal antioxidant, might protect tract rat reproductive system from toxicity of CP. To reach this aim, total antioxidant power (TAP) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) in testis and plasma, blood levels of sex hormones, sperm characteristics, DNA integrity and chromatin quality, and fertility in male rats were tested. Histopathological analysis of testes and epididymides and staining of mast cells were performed for assessment of spermatogenic disorders. CP (6 mg/kg/day) and SKEO (225 mg/kg/day) were administered alone or in combination by gavage for 28 days. In the CP-exposed rats, testicular and plasma LPO increased, TAP decreased, plasma testosterone diminished, and both spermatogenesis and fertility were impaired. In CP-treated rats, a decrease in sperm quality was associated with increased DNA damage and decreased chromatin quality. Coadministration of SKEO significantly improved CP-induced changes in plasma testosterone, sperm quality, spermatogenesis and fertility, toxic stress, and DNA damage. It is concluded that CP-induced toxic effects on androgenesis and spermatogenesis is mediated by free radicals. SKEO protects reproductive system from toxicity of CP through its antioxidant potential and androgenic activity.

Inhibitory effect of essential oils obtained from plants grown in Colombia on yellow fever virus replication

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2009

An antiviral drug is needed for the treatment of patients suffering from yellow fever. Several compounds present in plants can inactive in vitro a wide spectrum of animal viruses. In the present study the inhibitory effect of essential oils of Lippia alba, Lippia origanoides, Oreganum vulgare and Artemisia vulgaris on yellow fever virus (YFV) replication was investigated. The cytotoxicity (CC(50)) on Vero cells was evaluated by the MTT reduction method. The minimum concentration of the essential oil that inhibited virus titer by more than 50% (MIC) was determined by virus yield reduction assay. YFV was incubated 24 h at 4 degrees C with essential oil before adsorption on Vero cell, and viral replication was carried out in the absence or presence of essential oil. Vero cells were exposed to essential oil 24 h at 37 degrees C before the adsorption of untreated-virus. The CC(50) values were less than 100 microg/mL and the MIC values were 3.7 and 11.1 microg/mL. The CC(50)/MIC ratio was of 22.9, 26.4, 26.5 and 8.8 for L. alba, L origanoides, O. vulgare and A. vulgaris, respectively. The presence of essential oil in the culture medium enhances the antiviral effect: L. origanoides oil at 11.1 microg/mL produced a 100% reduction of virus yield, and the same result was observed with L. alba, O. vulgare and A. vulgaris oils at 100 microg/mL. No reduction of virus yield was observed when Vero cells were treated with essential oil before the adsorption of untreated-virus. The essential oils evaluated in the study showed antiviral activities against YFV. The mode of action seems to be direct virus inactivation.

Repellent and fumigant toxicity of essential oil from Thymus persicus against Tribolium castaneum and Callosobruchus maculatus

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2008
Comm Agr Appl Biol Sci

Repellent and insecticidal activity of the essential oil extracted from Thymus persicus (Roniger ex Reach. F.) Jalas was evaluated against two stored-product beetles Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) and Callosobruchus maculatus (F.). Dry flowering aerial parts of the plant were subjected to hydro distillation using a modified Clevenger-type apparatus. The repellent and fumigant toxicity were tested against 1-7 days old adult beetles at 27 +/- 1 degrees C and 65 +/- 5% RH in dark condition. The repellency on C. maculatus and T. castaneum at highest concentration (2 microL/mL acetone) was 82.40% and 70.40% respectively. Fumigation bioassays showed that C. maculatus adults were significantly more susceptible (LC50 = 2.39 microL/L air) to the essential oil than T. castaneum adults (LC50 = 234.42 microL/L air). It could be concluded that T. persicus may have potential for applications in management of stored-product pests because of its safety, strong repellency and fumigant toxicity.

Antinociceptive properties of 1,8-Cineole and beta-pinene, from the essential oil of Eucalyptus camaldulensis leaves, in rodents. Thyroid diseases (Planta Medica (2007) 73, 12, (1247-1254))

Article

Jun 2008
PLANTA MED

Biological Activities of Essential Oils

Article

Aug 2011

Gerhard Buchbauer

Handbook Of Essential Oils: Science, Technology, And Applications

Book

Jan 2010

Antioxidant activity of essential oils of five spice plants widely used in a Mediterranean diet

Article

Jan 2010
FLAVOUR FRAG J

The oxidative degradation of lipids is one of the main factors limiting the shelf-life of food products. In recent years, several undesirable disorders have been detected as side-effects of using commonly used synthetic antioxidants. Apart from their use as aroma additives in food, essential oils from aromatic plants have shown potential for use in small amounts in fat-containing food systems to prevent or delay some types of chemical deterioration that occur during storage. Using a multiple-method approach, the antioxidant activity of the essentials oils from several spices widely used in Mediterranean countries was tested: oregano (Origanum vulgare), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), sage (Salvia officinalis) and clove (Syzygium aromaticum). Their total phenolic compound content was also determined. The clove essential oil had the highest amount of total phenols (898.89 mg/l GAE) and showed the highest percentage inhibition of DPPH radical (98.74%) and the highest FRAP value (1.47 TEAC). The thyme essential oil produced the highest percentage inhibition of TBARS (89.84%). All the essential oils studied were capable of chelating iron(II), the rosemary essential oil producing the highest effect (76.06%) in this respect. The oregano essential oil had the highest antioxidant activity index in the Rancimat test. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Antioxidant properties of essential oils from lemon, grapefruit, coriander, clove, and their mixtures

Article

Jul 2008

Antioxidant properties of individual essential oils from lemon (Citrus limon L.), pink grapefruit (Citrus paradisi L.), coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.), and clove (Caryophyllus aromaticus L.) buds and their mixtures were studied by capillary gas-liquid chromatography. Antioxidant activity was assessed by oxidation of the aliphatic aldehyde hexanal to the carboxylic acid. The lowest and highest antioxidant activities were exhibited by grapefruit and clove bud essential oils, respectively. Mixtures containing clove bud essential oil also strongly inhibited oxidation of hexanal. Changes in the composition of essential oils and their mixtures in the course of long-term storage in the light were studied. The stability of components of lemon and coriander essential oils in mixtures increased compared to individual essential oils.

Antioxidative Properties of Thymus vulgaris Leaves: Comparison of Different Extracts and Essential Oil Chemotypes

Article

Aug 2008
J AGR FOOD CHEM

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L., Lamiaceae) is a subshrub from the Lamiaceae family with plants that are rich in essential oils and antioxidative phenolic substances. Twelve accessions originating from southern France and the variety 'Deutscher Winter' were grown in an experimental field in eastern Austria. Leaf samples from these plants as well as from a commercial thyme rich in thymol were analyzed for their essential oil and the antioxidative potential in various extracts. The assays for antioxidative activity were the total phenolics according to the Folin-Ciocalteu method, DPPH decoloration, and Fe(3+) reduction (FRAP). Both extraction techniques used, in the water bath at 40 degrees C and in the ultrasonic bath at room temperature, proved to be efficient. The best results were obtained with 60% ethanol as extractant. In the comparison of the different accessions the less active and the most active of these extracts differed by factors of 2.1 and 2.6 in the total phenolics and FRAP assay, respectively, and by factors 1.5-2.0 in the DPPH assay. Rosmarinic acid accounted for 22-55% of the antioxidant activity in the ethanolic extracts. Essential oils with high proportions of the phenolic components thymol and/or carvacrol showed the highest antioxidant activity. Ethanolic extracts from the residues after distillation were considerably lower in antioxidant activity than the respective extracts from the dried leaves. Extracts with CH2Cl2 in the ultrasonic bath contained volatiles in proportions close to the essential oil but displayed very low antioxidant activity.

South African Salvia species: A review of biological activities and phytochemistry

Article

Oct 2008
J ETHNOPHARMACOL

Comparative study of the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of six essential oils and their components

Article

Jan 2010

The antioxidant activities and the determined major components of six popular and commercially available herb essential oils, including lavender (Lavendular angustifolia), peppermint (Mentha piperita), rosemary (Rosmarius officinalis), lemon (Citrus limon), grapefruit (Citrus paradise), and frankincense (Boswellia carteri), were compared. The essential oils were analysed by GC-MS and their antioxidant activities were determined by testing free radical-scavenging capacity and lipid peroxidation in the linoleic acid system. The major components of the essential oils of lavender, peppermint, rosemary, lemon, grapefruit, and frankincense were linalyl acetate (28.2%), menthol (33.4%), 1,8-cineole (46.1%), limonene (64.5 and 94.2%), and p-menth-2-en-ol (34.5%), respectively. The highest DPPH radical-scavenging activity was obtained by the lavender essential oil and limonene, with RC50 values of 2.1 +/- 0.23% and 2.1 +/- 0.04%, respectively. Radical-scavenging activity against the ABTS radical was highest in peppermint essential oil (1.6 +/- 0.09). Lavender oil was most effective for inhibiting linoleic acid peroxidation after 10 days.

Variations in Essential Oil, Phenolic Compounds, and Antioxidant Activity of Tunisian Cultivated Salvia officinalis L.

Article

Nov 2009
J AGR FOOD CHEM

The variation in the chemical composition of the essential oil of Salvia officinalis , growing in different habitats, was studied. GC-MS analysis revealed 57 compounds representing 94.68-96.80% of total oils. The major components were alpha-thujone (11.55-19.23%), viridiflorol (9.94-19.46%), 1,8-cineole (8.85-15.60%), camphor (5.08-15.06%), manool (5.52-13.06%), beta-caryophyllene (2.63-9.24%), alpha-humulene (1.93-8.94%), and beta-thujone (5.45-6.17%), showing significant differences between different collection sites. Analysis of some representative polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant activity was performed using postdistilled dry samples. Rosmarinic acid, carnosol, and carnosic acid were the prevalent compounds of S. officinalis methanolic extracts. The results revealed differences in the polyphenolic composition and also exhibited antioxidant and radical-scavenging activities at different magnitudes of potency. However, within the used methods, only the DPPH(*) assay showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in free radical scavenging activity among samples collected in different regions. Plants collected in the coastal regions Soliman and Kelibia accumulate more polyphenolic compounds, known to be responsible for the main antioxidant activity of sage (rosmarinic acid, carnosol, and carnosic acid), than those growing inland at Bou Arada and Sers. Moreover, the former presented a higher radical-scavenging activity. The methanolic extracts of postdistilled S. officinalis might be valuable antioxidant natural sources and seemed to be applicable in both the health medicine and food industries.

Are Commercially Available Essential Oils from Australian Native Plants Repellent to Mosquitoes?

Article

Sep 2009

While the use of topical insect repellents, particularly those containing synthetic active ingredients such as deet (N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide), are a mainstay in personal protection strategies emphasized in public health messages, there is a growing demand in the community for alternative repellents, particularly those of botanical origin and thus deemed to be "natural." This study evaluated the repellency of essential oils from 11 Australian native plants in 5% v/v formulations against Aedes aegypti, Culex quinquefasciatus, and Culex annulirostris under laboratory conditions. A blend of the top 3 performing oils was then compared with deet and a commercially available botanical insect repellent. All essential oils provided at least some protection against the 3 mosquito species, with the longest protection time (110 min) afforded by Prostanthera melissifolia against Cx. quinquefasciatus. Mean protection times against Ae. aegypti were substantially lower than those for the Culex spp. tested. Deet provided significantly longer protection against Ae. aegypti than both the 5% v/v blend of Leptospermum petersonii, Prostanthera melissifolia, and Melaleuca alternifolia (the 3 most effective oils) and the commercial botanical repellent. The results of this study indicate that these essential oils from Australian native plants offer limited protection against biting mosquitoes and that a blend of essential oils holds may offer commercial potential as a short-period repellent or under conditions of low mosquito abundance. However, it is important that public health messages continue to emphasize the greater effectiveness of deet-based repellents in areas with risks of mosquito-borne disease.

In vitro antiviral activity of Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil. Letters in Applied Microbiology, 49(6), 806-808

Article

Sep 2009
LETT APPL MICROBIOL

To investigate the in vitro antiviral activity of Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil (TTO) and its main components, terpinen-4-ol, alpha-terpinene, gamma-terpinene, p-cymene, terpinolene and alpha-terpineol. The antiviral activity of tested compounds was evaluated against polio type 1, ECHO 9, Coxsackie B1, adeno type 2, herpes simplex (HSV) type 1 and 2 viruses by 50% plaque reduction assay. The anti-influenza virus assay was based on the inhibition of the virus-induced cytopathogenicity. Results obtained from our screening demonstrated that the TTO and some of its components (the terpinen-4-ol, the terpinolene, the alpha-terpineol) have an inhibitory effect on influenza A/PR/8 virus subtype H1N1 replication at doses below the cytotoxic dose. The ID(50) value of the TTO was found to be 0.0006% (v/v) and was much lower than its CD(50) (0.025% v/v). All the compounds were ineffective against polio 1, adeno 2, ECHO 9, Coxsackie B1, HSV-1 and HSV-2. None of the tested compounds showed virucidal activity. Only a slight virucidal effect was observed for TTO (0.125% v/v) against HSV-1 and HSV-2. These data show that TTO has an antiviral activity against influenza A/PR/8 virus subtype H1N1 and that antiviral activity has been principally attributed to terpinen-4-ol, the main active component. TTO should be a promising drug in the treatment of influenza virus infection.

Ocotea quixos Lam. essential oil: In vitro and in vivo investigation on its anti-inflammatory properties

Article

Oct 2009

Here we investigated the anti-inflammatory properties of Ocotea quixos essential oil and of its main components, trans-cinnamaldehyde and methyl cinnamate, in in vitro and in vivo models. Ocotea essential oil and trans-cinnamaldehyde but not methyl cinnamate significantly reduced LPS-induced NO release from J774 macrophages at non-toxic concentrations, inhibited LPS-induced COX-2 expression and increased forskolin-induced cAMP production. The essential oil (30-100mg/kg os) and trans-cinnamaldehyde (10mg/kg os) in carrageenan-induced rat paw edema showed anti-inflammatory effect without damaging gastric mucosa. In conclusion we provide the first evidence of a significant anti-inflammatory gastro-sparing activity of O.quixos essential oil.

Chemical composition, antioxidant, anti-elastase, and anti-inflammatory activities of Illicium anisatum essential oil

Article

Sep 2009
Acta Pharm

The essential oil of air-dried Illicium anisatum (Illiciaceae), obtained by hydrodistillation was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Fifty-two components were identified in the essential oil and the main component was eucalyptol (21.8 %). The antioxidant and anti-elastase activities of the essential oil were also investigated; the essential oil exhibited moderate DPPH scavenging and anti-elastase activities. To clarify the mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activities of I. anisatum essential oil (IAE), we evaluated whether it could modulate the production of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) by activated macrophages. The results indicate that IAE is an effective inhibitor of LPS-induced NO and PGE2 production in RAW 264.7 cells. These inhibitory activities were accompanied by dose-dependent decreases in the expression of iNOS and COX-2 proteins and iNOS and COX-2 mRNA. In order to determine whether IAE can be safely applied to human skin, the cytotoxic effects of IAE were determined by colorimetric MTT assays in human dermal fibroblast and keratinocyte HaCaT cells. IAE exhibited low cytotoxicity at 100 microg mL-1. Based on these results, we suggest that IAE may be considered an anti-aging and anti-inflammatory candidate for cosmetic materials, but additional in vitro and in vivo tests have to be performed to prove its safety and efficacy.

Chemical composition and antioxidant activities of the essential oil and methanol extracts of Psammogeton canescens

Article

Sep 2009

This study is outlined to probe the chemical composition of essential oil and in vitro antioxidant activity of the essential oil and methanol extracts of Psammogeton canescens. The chemical composition of the hydrodistilled essential oil of the aerial parts of P. canescens was analyzed by GC and GC/MS. The main constituents of the oil were found to be beta-bisabolene (33.35%), apiole (28.34%), alpha-pinene (11.86%) and dill apiole (8.17%). Antioxidant activities of the samples were determined by three various testing systems namely DPPH, beta-carotene/linoleic acid, and reducing power assay. In DPPH system, the highest radical-scavenging activity was seen by the polar subfraction of methanol extract (49.5+/-1.21mug/ml). Furthermore, in the second case the inhibition capacity (%) of the polar subfraction (92.40%+/-0.72) found to be the stronger one. However, in the reducing power assay, a reverse activity pattern more than in the first two systems was observed, and the essential oil was stronger radical reducer than was the methanol extract in all of the concentration tested. Our findings demonstrate that the essential oil and methanol extracts of P. canescens possess significant antioxidant activities and may be suggested as a new potential source of natural antioxidant.

Characterization and Antioxidant Activity of Essential Oils from Fresh and Decaying Leaves of Eucalyptus tereticornis

Article

Aug 2009
J AGR FOOD CHEM

The composition of essential oils hydrodistilled from fresh and decaying leaves of Eucalyptus tereticornis was analyzed by means of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, and a total of 68 constituents were identified. The essential oils were assayed for antioxidant activity in terms of scavenging of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) and hydroxyl (OH(*)) radical, and superoxide anion (O2(-*)).The major constituents of the fresh leaf oil were alpha-pinene (28.53%) and 1,8-cineole (19.48%), whereas in the decaying leaf oil, beta-citronellal (14.15%), (-)-isopulegol (13.35%), and (+)-beta-citronellol (10.73%) were the major components. Both essential oils exhibited a strong radical scavenging activity against DPPH radical with IC50 values of 110 and 139.8 microg/mL for fresh and decaying leaf oil, respectively (IC50 of BHT = 164.2 microg/mL). Further, the essential oils (at 400 microg/mL) also exhibited OH(*) (56-62%) and O2(-*) (65-69%) scavenging activity parallel to the commercial antioxidant BHT/ascorbic acid. However, unlike the essential oils, the major monoterpene constituents exhibited significantly less scavenging activity (<35% DPPH or OH(*); at 400 microg/mL). The study concluded that fresh and decaying leaves of E. tereticornis are a source of monoterpenoid rich oil exhibiting antioxidant activity.

Gastroprotection of (-)-alpha-bisabolol on acute gastric mucosal lesions in mice: the possible involved pharmacological mechanisms

Article

Sep 2009
FUND CLIN PHARMACOL

(-)-Alpha-Bisabolol is an unsaturated, optically active sesquiterpene alcohol obtained by the direct distillation essential oil from plants such as Vanillosmopsis erythropappa and Matricaria chamomilla. (-)-Alpha-Bisabolol has generated considerable economic interest, since it possesses a delicate floral odor and has been shown to have anti-septic and anti-inflammatory activity. The aim of this work was to evaluate the gastroprotective action of (-)-alpha-bisabolol on ethanol and indomethacin-induced ulcer models in mice, and further investigate the pharmacological mechanisms involved in this action. The oral administration of (-)-alpha-bisabolol 100 and 200 mg/kg was able to protect the gastric mucosa from ethanol (0.2 mL/animal p.o.) and indomethacin-induced ulcer (20 mg/kg p.o.). Administration of L-NAME (10 mg/kg i.p.), glibenclamide (10 mg/kg i.p.) or indomethacin (10 mg/kg p.o.) was not able to revert the gastroprotection promoted by (-)-alpha-bisabolol 200 mg/kg on the ethanol-induced ulcer. Dosage of gastric reduced glutathione (GSH) levels showed that ethanol and indomethacin reduced the content of non-protein sulfhydryl (NP-SH) groups, while (-)-alpha-bisabolol significantly decreased the reduction of these levels on ulcer-induced mice, but not in mice without ulcer. In conclusion, gastroprotective effect on ethanol and indomethacin-induced ulcer promoted by (-)-alpha-bisabolol may be associated with an increase of gastric sulfydryl groups bioavailability leading to a reduction of gastric oxidative injury induced by ethanol and indomethacin.

Lemongrass effects on IL-1β and IL-6 production by macrophages

Article

Feb 2009

Cymbopogon citratus has been widely recognised for its ethnobotanical and medicinal usefulness. Its insecticidal, antimicrobial and therapeutic properties have been reported, but little is known about its effect on the immune system. This work aimed to investigate the in vivo effect of a water extract of lemongrass on pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-1beta and IL-6) production by macrophages of BALB/c mice. The action of lemongrass essential oil on cytokine production by macrophages was also analysed in vitro. The chemical composition of the extract and the oil was also investigated. Treatment of mice with water extract of lemongrass inhibited macrophages to produce IL-1beta but induced IL-6 production by these cells. Lemongrass essential oil inhibited the cytokine production in vitro. Linalool oxide and epoxy-linalool oxide were found to be the major components of lemongrass water extract, and neral and geranial were the major compounds of its essential oil. Taken together, these data suggest an anti-inflammatory action of this natural product.

Comparative Study on the Antiviral Activity of Selected Monoterpenes Derived from Essential Oils

Article

Nov 2009
PHYTOTHER RES

Essential oils are complex natural mixtures, their main constituents, e.g. terpenes and phenylpropanoids, being responsible for their biological properties. Essential oils from eucalyptus, tea tree and thyme and their major monoterpene compounds alpha-terpinene, gamma-terpinene, alpha-pinene, p-cymene, terpinen-4-ol, alpha-terpineol, thymol, citral and 1,8-cineole were examined for their antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in vitro. These essential oils were able to reduce viral infectivity by >96%, the monoterpenes inhibited HSV by about >80%. The mode of antiviral action has been determined, only moderate antiviral effects were revealed by essential oils and monoterpenes when these drugs were added to host cells prior to infection or after entry of HSV into cells. However, both essential oils and monoterpenes exhibited high anti-HSV-1 activity by direct inactivation of free virus particles. All tested drugs interacted in a dose-dependent manner with herpesvirus particles thereby inactivating viral infection. Among the analysed compounds, monoterpene hydrocarbons were slightly superior to monoterpene alcohols in their antiviral activity, alpha-pinene and alpha-terpineol revealed the highest selectivity index. However, mixtures of different monoterpenes present in natural tea tree essential oil revealed a ten-fold higher selectivity index and a lower toxicity than its isolated single monoterpenes.

Antinociceptive Activity of the Essential Oil of Zingiber zerumbet

Article

Aug 2009
PLANTA MED

In the present study, the rhizome essential oil from Zingiber zerumbet (Zingiberaceae) was evaluated for antinociceptive activity using chemical and thermal models of nociception, namely, the acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing test, the hot-plate test and the formalin-induced paw licking test. It was demonstrated that intraperitoneal administration of the essential oil of Z. zerumbet (EOZZ) at the doses of 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg produced significant dose-dependent inhibition of acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing, comparable to that of obtained with acetylsalicylic acid (100 mg/kg). At the same doses, the EOZZ produced significant dose-dependent increases in the latency time in the hot-plate test with respect to controls, and in the formalin-induced paw licking test, the EOZZ also significantly reduced the painful stimulus in both neurogenic and inflammatory phase of the test. In addition, the antinociceptive effect of the EOZZ in the formalin-induced paw licking test as well as hot-plate test was reversed by the nonselective opioid receptor antagonist, naloxone suggesting that the opioid system was involved in its analgesic mechanism of action. On the basis of these data, we concluded that the EOZZ possessed both central and peripheral antinociceptive activities which justifying its popular folkloric use to relieve some pain conditions.

Chapter 18 Intraplantar Injection Of Bergamot Essential Oil Into The Mouse Hindpaw

Article

Feb 2009
INT REV NEUROBIOL

Biological properties of essential oils: An updated review

Abstract

No full-text available