Characterization of drupe essential oil of Schinus molle L. from Córdoba: Potential uses

Abstract

The main components of the essential oil (EO) of Schihus molle L were characterized by Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The following components found were: α-pinene (22%), limonene (19%), caryophyllene (11%), β-pinene (8%), γ-gurjunene (6%), 7- Tetracyclo [6.2.1.0(3.8)0(3.9)] undecanol, 4,4,11,11-tetramethyl (5%), β-cadinene (4.11%), ledene oxide (4%), isoledene and β -elemene (3%), and finally δ-cadinene with 2% and others. They are terpene-type compounds in different concentrations. Their potential use in medicine stands out for being antiinflammatory, anxiolytic, antidepressant, memory loss recovery, kidney and liver problem preventions, antioxidant, immunoprotective and it is also used as anticancer, antimetastatic, among other uses. It also has a potential use as an antifungal, antimicrobial and insecticidal effect. They made it suitable for medical therapies as well as controlling of pests and microorganisms and other applications.