A review on anti-inflammatory activity of monoterpenes

Molecules. 2013 Jan 18;18(1):1227-54. doi: 10.3390/molecules18011227.

Abstract

Faced with the need to find new anti-inflammatory agents, great effort has been expended on the development of drugs for the treatment of inflammation. This disorder reduces the quality of life and overall average productivity, causing huge financial losses. In this review the anti-inflammatory activity of 32 bioactive monoterpenes found in essential oils is discussed. The data demonstrate the pharmacological potential of this group of natural chemicals to act as anti-inflammatory drugs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / chemistry
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / pharmacology
  • Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors / chemistry
  • Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation Mediators / metabolism
  • Monoterpenes / chemistry
  • Monoterpenes / pharmacology*
  • Oils, Volatile / chemistry
  • Oils, Volatile / pharmacology
  • Plant Oils / chemistry
  • Plant Oils / pharmacology
  • Plants, Medicinal / chemistry

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors
  • Inflammation Mediators
  • Monoterpenes
  • Oils, Volatile
  • Plant Oils