Blood Levels of 1,8-Cineole and Locomotor Activity of Mice After Inhalation and Oral Administration of Rosemary Oil¹

Abstract

One hour after the addition of 0.5 ml rosemary oil per cage for evaporation (14 1 of volume) the concentration of 1 ,8-cineole in the blood, 11.15 nl/g, approached that in the breathing air, 13.65 ni/mI. Inhalation and oral administration of various doses of rosemary oil produced dose-related increases in blood levels of I ,8-cineole. An increase in locomotor activity was observed in both cases. The disappearance of I ,8-cineole from the blood immediately after the termination of a 60-mm inhalation period was biphasic: a rapid phase of elimination of about 10 mm with a short blood half life (t/2 = 6 mm) was followed by a slower rate of elimination (t12 = 45 mm).Since the blood levels of 1 ,8-cineole (if taken as an indicator for the blood levels of rosemary oil) associated with the stimulation of locomotor activity were similar regardless of whether the oil was administered by inhalation or orally, it is suggested that the stimulation of locomotor activity by rosemary oil is due at least in part to the direct pharmacological action of one or more of its constituents.

Chemical Composition and Effects of Blended Essential Oil on Humans

“…Aromatherapists know that the refreshing effects of pine oil which communicate bracing, strengthening, and stabilizing psychological effects (Damain and Damain, 1995). Patchouli oil show stimulating effect on human physiological responses (Pujiarti et al, 2012).…”

“…Some studies have shown that essential oils are used for mental strain or dullness and lethargy or exhaustion such as eucalyptus, rosemary, cajuput, pine, bergamot, patchouli, and marjoram oils (Albert and Steven, 1996;Lis-Balchin, 2006;Pujiarti et al, 2012). It is interesting that the main chemical components of these essential oils are 1,8-cineole, limonene, camphor, and α-pinene which had been reported a stimulating effect (Heuberger et al, 2000;Kovar et al, 1987;Lis-Balchin, 2006;Steinmetz et al, 1987). Aromatherapy blending preparations may use alone or blend two, three or more oils together to match consumer's satisfaction.…”

“…Aromatherapy blending of rose, lavender, and sage oils was effective in decreasing the severity of menstrual cramps (Han et al, 2006). Rosemary oil exhibited stimulating effect, such as help to strengthen the brain, improve memory, fortify the heart, and energize mind (Atsumiand Tonosaki,2007;Diego et al, 1998;Hongratanaworakit, 2009;Lis-Balchin, 2006;Moss et al, 2003, Sayorwan et al, 2013. Rutledge and Jones (2007) recommend a combination of organically derived essential oils (eucalyptus, lemon, orange, camphor, rosemary, and peppermint) for fibromyalgia.…”

“…Generally, the blends comprise of top note 20-40%, middle note 50-70%, and base note 10% (Hudson, 1999;Wildwood, 2000). In this study, we selected the essential oils that contained 1,8-cineole, limonene, camphor, and α-pinene which had been reported a stimulating effect (Heuberger et al, 2000;Kovar et al, 1987;Lis-Balchin, 2006;Steinmetz et al, 1987). The eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus Labill.)…”

“…breathing rate, blood pressure, pulse rate, skin temperature and skin conductance, changes in brain wave activities, e.g. electroencephalogram, contingent negative variation, changes in mood, cognitive performances and emotion (Bensafi et al, 2000;Diego et al, 1998;Heuberger et al, 2000;Heuberger et al, 2006;Hongratanaworakit et al, 2005;Hongratanaworakit et al, 2007;Hongratanaworakit, 2009;Hongratanaworakit, 2010;Inoue et al, 2003;Moss et al, 2003;Rutledge and Jones, 2007). However, up to now, no experiments about the effects of blended oil on human autonomic parameters and on emotional changes after inhalation have been carried out.…”