Polymer nanoparticles containing essential oils: new options for mosquito control.
- Werdin González JO et al (2017).
- Environ Sci Pollut Res Int.
- PubMed:
- 28580545
Lavender essential oil is used to alleviate stress and anxiety. Researchers evaluated its effects on the central nervous system and neurotoxicity. Lavender and its components bind to glutamate NMDA-receptors and the serotonin transporter but not the GABA-benzodiazepine receptor. Lavender did not enhance neurotoxic insult and improved cell viability. The study suggests that lavender may have pharmacological properties by modulating the NMDA receptor, SERT, and hydrogen peroxide-induced neurotoxicity.
In this study, researchers analyzed the components of the dried bark of Phellodendron chinense and found it contains phellodendrine and berberine. They tested these components for their potential use in treating Alzheimer's disease and found they both inhibited the activity of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme involved in the disease. Additionally, the bark extract and phellodendrine had antioxidant properties and protected brain cells from oxidative damage. While neither component had an effect on the beta-amyloid protein associated with Alzheimer's, this research suggests that Phellodendron chinense has potential as an anti-Alzheimer's agent.