Evidence supporting the use of: Monoterpenes
For the health condition: Allergies (respiratory)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Monoterpenes, a class of terpenes found in essential oils of many plants (such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree), have some scientific evidence supporting their use in respiratory allergies, though the data is limited and mostly preclinical. Laboratory and animal studies have shown that certain monoterpenes, such as 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) and linalool, can exert anti-inflammatory, bronchodilatory, and mucolytic effects. For example, 1,8-cineole has been shown to reduce airway inflammation and modulate immune responses relevant to allergic asthma in animal models and small human studies. Some clinical trials have found eucalyptol can improve lung function and decrease steroid use in chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD, though these are not always specifically allergy-related. Other monoterpenes, such as limonene and alpha-pinene, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory or anti-allergic effects in vitro or in animal models, but human data is sparse.

Despite these findings, robust clinical evidence for the efficacy of monoterpenes in treating respiratory allergies in humans is lacking. Most studies are small, not allergy-specific, or preclinical. Some traditional medicine systems use monoterpene-rich plants for respiratory symptoms, but this is not direct evidence. Overall, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary evidence, more and larger clinical studies are needed to confirm efficacy and safety in allergic respiratory conditions.

More about Monoterpenes
More about Allergies (respiratory)

Products containing Monoterpenes

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