Potential anti-inflammatory activity of the Tamarix aphylla essential oil

Aim: This study aimed to assess the anti-inflammatory activity and potential mechanisms of essential oil of Tamarix aphylla (EOTA). Methods: The essential oils were extracted from the plant’s aerial parts using hydrodistillation and analyzed through gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The essential oils were assessed for their anti-inflammatory effects using well-established inflammation models, namely carrageenan-induced paw edema and peritonitis. To evaluate the antioxidant activity of the essential oil, measurements were taken for nitric oxide radical-scavenging activity and lipid peroxidation. Results: The predominant components of the EOTA were 6,10,14-Trimethyl-2-pentadecanone (20.2%), β-Ionone (20.1%), Dodecanoic acid (12.2%), and trans-β-Caryophyllene (10%.1). The study found that EOTA significantly reduced edema, peritonitis, myeloperoxidase activity, and NOx-peritoneal lavage concentration induced by carrageenan. Additionally, the essential oil exhibited significant inhibition of nitric oxide radical production triggered by sodium nitroprusside. Furthermore, EOTA demonstrated the ability to prevent lipid peroxidation induced by Fe+2- or Fe+2 plus H2O2. Conclusion: The findings suggest that EOTA possesses anti-inflammatory activity, potentially linked to its antioxidant capacity.