Citronellol
Also known as: Citronellol, β-citronellol, (±)-citronellol, roseol, 3,7-Dimethyloct-6-en-1-ol
Overview
Citronellol is a naturally occurring monoterpenoid alcohol found in the essential oils of plants like citronella, rose, and geranium. It is characterized by its pleasant floral scent and lipophilic properties. Primarily used in aromatherapy and as a fragrance ingredient, citronellol is also being investigated for its potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Research on citronellol is still in its early to moderate stages, with a predominance of preclinical and animal studies. While these studies suggest potential benefits, human clinical trials are limited, and the quality of available evidence for human efficacy and safety is low. Citronellol can be found in various forms, including pure isolates and as a component of essential oil extracts. Its lipophilic nature suggests potential for good absorption via oral and topical routes, although human data is lacking.
Benefits
Preclinical studies, primarily in animal models, suggest that citronellol may possess anti-inflammatory properties. Specifically, studies have shown that citronellol can reduce the expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, while enhancing the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4. One animal study demonstrated that citronellol, at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, significantly reduced proinflammatory cytokine expression, with the highest dose showing the most pronounced effect (p < 0.05). However, it is important to note that these findings are based on animal studies, and the clinical significance of these effects in humans remains unknown. There is a lack of robust human data to support the use of citronellol for specific inflammatory conditions.
How it works
Citronellol's mechanism of action is primarily understood through its modulation of cytokine expression. It appears to reduce the production of proinflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, while simultaneously enhancing the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4. This suggests that citronellol may influence the immune and inflammatory systems by altering cytokine signaling pathways. While the specific molecular targets of citronellol are not fully elucidated, its effects on cytokine production indicate an interaction with key regulatory pathways involved in inflammation. The lipophilic nature of citronellol suggests that it can be absorbed via oral and topical routes, potentially allowing it to interact with various body systems.
Side effects
Citronellol is generally recognized as safe for topical and fragrance use. However, there is limited data on the safety of oral supplementation in humans. Common side effects are not reported in available studies, but topical use may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. Uncommon and rare side effects are not documented in peer-reviewed literature. No significant drug interactions have been reported. There are no established contraindications, but caution is advised for individuals with known allergies to essential oils. Due to insufficient data, use in pregnant, lactating, or pediatric populations should be approached with caution. Further research is needed to fully assess the safety profile of citronellol, especially with regard to oral supplementation.
Dosage
Due to the limited human data, a minimum effective dose, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe dose of citronellol have not been established. Animal studies have used doses ranging from 25 to 100 mg/kg, but extrapolation from animal data to humans is not recommended. Timing considerations for dosage have not been specified. Most research has focused on pure citronellol or essential oil extracts. Both oral and topical forms have been used in preclinical studies. The lipophilic nature of citronellol suggests that it is likely well absorbed, but human data is lacking. No required cofactors have been identified. Until further research is available, it is important to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider before using citronellol as a supplement.
FAQs
Is citronellol safe for everyone?
Citronellol is generally considered safe for topical use, but there's limited data on oral supplementation in humans. Caution is advised, especially for pregnant, lactating, or pediatric populations.
What are the potential benefits of citronellol?
Preclinical studies suggest anti-inflammatory effects, but human data is lacking. Therefore, the benefits in humans are currently unknown and require further research.
How should I take citronellol?
Optimal dosage and timing are not established due to limited human research. Consult with a healthcare provider before using citronellol as a supplement to determine appropriate use.
Can citronellol be confused with other substances?
Yes, citronellol is sometimes confused with citronella oil. Citronella oil contains citronellol but is a different product with its own properties and uses.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38561995/ – This study investigates the anti-inflammatory effects of citronellol in an animal model. The research indicates that citronellol can significantly reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increase the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines, suggesting a potential therapeutic role in inflammatory conditions. The findings support further investigation into citronellol's anti-inflammatory properties.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1336889/full – This research article likely explores the nutritional aspects and potential health benefits of citronellol. While the specific details would require a review of the full article, journals like Frontiers in Nutrition often focus on the impact of dietary components on health outcomes. The study likely provides insights into how citronellol may contribute to overall well-being through its nutritional properties.
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/citronella-oil.html – Drugs.com provides information on citronella oil, which contains citronellol as a key component. The resource likely details the traditional uses, potential benefits, and safety considerations associated with citronella oil. It serves as a general reference for understanding the properties and applications of citronella oil, including its citronellol content.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2311-7524/8/12/1132 – This article from MDPI likely investigates the chemical properties, synthesis, or applications of citronellol. MDPI journals often cover a wide range of scientific topics, and this particular article likely delves into the specific chemical aspects of citronellol. The research may provide insights into the production, modification, or utilization of citronellol in various fields.
- https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.3c06374 – This study published by the American Chemical Society (ACS) likely explores the chemical and biological properties of citronellol. ACS Omega is a multidisciplinary journal, and this article probably investigates the synthesis, reactivity, or biological activity of citronellol. The research may offer insights into the potential applications of citronellol in various chemical and biological contexts.