Pharmacokinetic Studies of the Fragrance Compound 1,8-Cineol in Humans during Inhalation

Abstract

The present study was undertaken to investigate the pharmacokinetics of 1,8-cineol in human subjects during prolonged inhalation. The results showed that 1,8-cineol is well absorbed from breathing air, with a peak plasma concentration after approximately 18 min. The elimination of this fragrance compound from the blood is biphasic, with a mean distribution half-life of 6.7 min and an elimination half-life of 104.6 min.

Biosynthesis and Therapeutic Properties ofLavandulaEssential Oil Constituents

“…However, one study in humans showed that transdermal applications of lavender oil resulted in the accumulation of monoterpenoids linalool and linalyl acetate in subjectsʼ blood samples [35]. Another common lavender monoterpenoid, 1,8-cineole, was shown to be rapidly absorbed by a human subject via inhalation, with detectible quantities within 5 minutes and peak quantities at~18 minutes of inhalation, followed by a 104.6-minute elimination half-life [36]. In mice, a direct correlation was observed between inhalation of linalool and blood plasma linalool levels [37].…”

Eucalyptol, an essential oil, reduces contractile activity in rat cardiac muscle

“…Eucalyptol diffuses faster by inhalation than by oral administration or through the skin (9,13). Its presence can be detected in blood 5 min after inhalation, with maximal concentration being reached within 18 min (14).…”

Scientific Opinion on Flavouring Group Evaluation 23, Revision 2 (FGE.23Rev2): Aliphatic, alicyclic and aromatic ethers including anisole derivatives from chemical groups 15, 16, 22, 26 and 30

“…The mean half-life for distribution was 6.7 minutes, whereas the half-life for elimination is 104.6 minutes. However, 1,8-cineole distribution seemed to be affected by the body composition of the volunteer (Jäger et al, 1996).…”