hinokitiol

Hinokitiol is a naturally occurring **tropolone derivative** and monoterpenoid, most commonly isolated from the heartwood of several Cupressaceae (cypress family) trees[3][4]. It has **broad-spectrum antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-melanogenic**, and mild **antiviral properties**[3][4][5]. Mechanistically, hinokitiol acts primarily by chelating metal ions (notably iron and copper), which can disrupt metal-dependent bacterial enzymatic systems and generate reactive oxygen species[5][6][11]. It also inhibits NF-κB signaling, suppresses matrix metalloproteinases, and activates caspase-3, contributing to its anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective actions[4]. Hinokitiol is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (including methicillin-resistant *Staphylococcus aureus* and some antibiotic-resistant strains), reduces inflammation in dermatologic conditions, and inhibits efflux pumps in bacteria, thereby enhancing the efficacy of tetracycline and bismuth-based antibiotics[5][11]. It is used in some oral care and topical consumer hygiene products, and is investigated primarily as a **dietary supplement or cosmeceutical ingredient**, not as an approved pharmaceutical[4][5].

Other names

hinokitiolβ-thujaplicin2-hydroxy-4-isopropylcyclohepta-2,4,6-trien-1-oneThujaplicin