Inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase by essential oils and other natural fragrant extracts

Abstract Aromatherapy utilises a number of essential oils in the treatment of certain inflammatory disorders. The mechanisms of inflammation involve complex cascades of events in which the metabolism of arachidonic acid, which begins by its oxidation by the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase, plays an important role. The prime objective of this study was to assess in vitro , the potential of essential oils, absolutes and natural or nature-identical chemicals to inhibit this enzyme. Thirty-two essential oils, 10 absolutes and 26 chemicals were screened. The results are reported and discussed.