The effect of Minthostachys verticillata essential oil on the immune response of patients allergic to dust mites

CARIDDI LN; MOSER M; ANDRADA M; DEMO M; ZYGADLO J; SABINI LI; MALDONADO AM

BOLETíN LATINOAMERICANO Y DEL CARIBE DE PLANTAS MEDICINALES Y AROMáTICAS

SOC FITOQUIMICA LATINOAMERICANA

Año: 2009 vol. 8 p. 224 - 233

0717-7917

The essential oil from leaves of Minthostachys verticillata was obtained by steam distillation and analyzed by gas chromatography. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from allergic patients were stimulated with essential oil. By application of MTT or 3,(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide colorimetric test the proliferation was assayed. In lymphocyte cultures CD4+, CD8+ and B cells were quantified, and in supernatants, IFN-ã and IL-13. The liberation of â-hexosaminidase enzyme was determined for basophils with essential oil added and challenged with allergen and its effects were compared with those of anti-allergic drugs. The main constituents identified were pulegone, menthone and limonene. Essential oil increased absolute values of CD4+, CD8+ and B cells (p<0.002), stimulated IFN-ã synthesis and reduced IL-13 levels. Essential oil diminished â-hexosaminidase liberation by basophils (p<0.0001), with effects majors to those of the drugs tested. Essential oil stimulated the Th1 deviation and reduced â-hexosaminidase enzyme liberation by basophils from allergic patients. Keywords: Minthostachys verticillata; Essential oil; Immunomodulator; Basophil degranulation; â-hexosaminidase. Minthostachys verticillata; Essential oil; Immunomodulator; Basophil degranulation; â-hexosaminidase.