eucalyptol

Eucalyptol is a naturally occurring monoterpenoid and cyclic ether that is the major component of eucalyptus oil. It is widely used as an ingredient in mouthwashes, cough suppressants, and cosmetics. Eucalyptol exerts its effects primarily through anti-inflammatory mechanisms by inhibiting proinflammatory cytokines such as Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), Interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and Interleukin 6 (IL-6) via the Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway. It also acts as an antioxidant by reducing oxidative stress through radical scavenging and modulation of signaling pathways. Clinically, eucalyptol has been shown to control airway mucus hypersecretion in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), reduce inflammation in nonpurulent rhinosinusitis, relieve pain when applied topically, and may have mucolytic and bronchodilating properties. Additionally, it has demonstrated cytotoxic activity against leukemia cells in vitro[1][6][7].

Brand names

Listerine Antiseptic

Other names

1,8-cineolecineolecajeputol