Unveiling the Chemical Composition and Biological Properties of <i>Salvia cacaliifolia</i> Benth. Essential Oil

oleh: Jorge M. Alves-Silva, Emma Cocco, Alessandra Piras, Maria José Gonçalves, Ana Silva, Danilo Falconieri, Silvia Porcedda, Maria Teresa Cruz, Andrea Maxia, Lígia Salgueiro

Format: Article
Diterbitkan: MDPI AG 2023-01-01

Deskripsi

<i>Salvia</i> is widely recognized for its therapeutic potential. However, the biological relevance of some species remains unknown, namely <i>Salvia cacaliifolia</i> Benth. Therefore, the aim of this study is to unveil the chemical composition and relevant properties to its essential oil (EO). The EO was characterized by GC and GC-MS and its antifungal effect was evaluated according to the CLSI guidelines on dermatophytes and yeasts. The anti-inflammatory potential was assessed on lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages, by assessing the production of nitric oxide (NO) and the effect on the protein levels of two key pro-inflammatory enzymes, iNOS and COX-2 by western blot analysis. Wound healing capacity was determined using the scratch wound healing assay, and the anti-aging potential was assessed by evaluating the senescence marker β-galactosidase. The EO was mainly characterized by γ-curcumene, β-bisabolene, bicyclogermacrene and curzerenone. It is effective in inhibiting the growth of dermatophytes and <i>C. neoformans</i>. The EO significantly decreased iNOS and COX-2 protein levels and concomitantly reduced NO release. Additionally, it demonstrated anti-senescence potential and promoted wound healing. Overall, this study highlights relevant pharmacological properties of the EO of <i>Salvia cacaliifolia</i>, which should be further explored envisaging the development of sustainable, innovative, and environmentally friendly skin products.