alpha-Bisabolol

alpha-Bisabolol, also known as levomenol, is a natural monocyclic sesquiterpene alcohol found primarily in the essential oil of German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and the Candeia tree (Eremanthus erythropappus) (PubChem CID 154999). It is widely utilized in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries due to its potent anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, and antimicrobial properties (Kamatou & Viljoen, 2010). Rather than being a specific therapeutic target itself, alpha-Bisabolol is a bioactive compound that modulates various molecular pathways, including the inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators like TNF-alpha and IL-6 (Maurya et al., 2014). It also reduces the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), contributing to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Its high safety profile and lipophilic nature make it an effective agent for topical applications and gastroprotective formulations. Research also suggests potential neuroprotective and anticancer activities, where it may induce apoptosis in malignant cells through mitochondrial pathways.

Other names

Levomenol(-)-alpha-bisabololDragosantol6-Methyl-2-(4-methylcyclohex-3-en-1-yl)hept-5-en-2-ol

alpha-Bisabolol acts as a bioactive compound rather than a therapeutic target; it exerts its effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-alpha and IL-6, and by downregulating the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS).