Effects of 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) on the activity of human bronchial tissue

1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) is used for the treatment of bronchial complaints, sinusitis and colds. Experiments have previously shown that 1,8-cineole, a monoterpene (C-10), has a very pronounced spasmolytic effect on smooth muscle fibre. In nearly all clinical applications with 1,8-cineole, especially when used in conjunction with allergic symptoms, histamine receptors prove to be crucial for treatment (use of histamine inhibitors). Results: The desired 1,8-cineole effects are attained through: specifically blocking H1 histamine receptors, without influencing ACh receptors Inhibiting the contractile activity of human bronchial smooth muscle by activating H2 histamine receptors. The ultimate goal of this study was to address the bronchodilatory effect of this compound, using human airway smooth muscle in order to demonstrate a possible role for 1,8-cineole in airway diseases. Keywords: Smooth muscle fibre; 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol); Human bronchial tissue; Bronchitis; Monoterpene