Knowledge Tree
volatile oils
Also known as: volatile oil
Facts (26)
Sources
Active Plant Principles and Applications in Plant Medicine irispublishers.com May 2, 2024 23 facts
claimVolatile (essential) oils are complex mixtures of aliphatic, aromatic, and hydroaromatic hydrocarbons, aldehydes, alcohols, and esters, in which compounds of the terpenoid class generally predominate.
claimMelissa officinalis (the nightshade or beehive herb) contains acyclic monoterpenes in its volatile oil, which is extracted from the leaves (Melissa folium) and possesses sedative and stomachic actions.
claimVolatile oils are formed in various plant locations, including oil cells, intracellular spaces, and glandular brushes.
claimVolatile oils are found in the petals of Verbascum species and in the buds of black poplar (Populus gemma).
claimThe most important groups of active principles in medicinal and aromatic plants include glucides, pectins, mucilages and gums, fatty oils, volatile oils, resins, organic acids, glycosides, saponins, astringents, bitter principles, vitamins, alkaloids, vegetable dyes, antibiotics, phytoncides, and mineral substances.
measurementRosmarinus officinalis (also known as Rosmarini folium or Folia Anthos) contains volatile oil in concentrations of 0.22-1.20% in fresh plants, up to 2% in dried and conditioned leaves, and 1.44% in flowers.
claimChamomile (Chamomille flos) contains sesquiterpene substances in its volatile oil, which is extracted from the flowers and contributes to its therapeutic properties.
claimUnder medical supervision, the volatile oil of Achillea millefolium is used to treat digestive issues, flatulence, cramps, gastric pains in nervous women, hemorrhoids, and as a hepato-biliary, intestinal hemostatic, anal, vesical, and nasal agent; it also stimulates circulation and regulates menstrual disorders.
claimVolatile oils possess bactericidal action, which explains the historical use of fatty oils soaked with plant essences for body anointing after bathing, as well as the use of deodorants and perfumes.
claimThe pharmacodynamic actions of volatile oils include irritant, vesicant, antiseptic, and toxic effects, with pure volatile oils capable of causing deep damage to internal organs if ingested.
measurementMentha piperita (isma leaves) contains volatile oils with a monoterpene structure, reaching up to 2% in dry product or 0.2-0.4% in fresh leaves.
measurementThe volatile oil of Mentha piperita leaves contains 35-55% menthol and 10-40% menthone.
claimMedicinal plants such as walnut leaves, hawthorn flowers, elderberry, wort, nettle, and garlic contain volatile oils that interact with other basic active principles.
claimThe chemical composition of volatile oils consists of mono- and sesquiterpenes, with sesquiterpenes containing 15 carbon atoms in their molecule.
claimPlants are considered aromatic if they contain volatile oils in a concentration of 0.1-0.2%, possess a perceptible odor, and are suitable for economically profitable exploitation.
claimVolatile oils are extracted from plants by distillation, are liquids with a characteristic pleasant smell, can be drawn with water vapor, and are irritating and flammable in their pure state.
claimVolatile oils are utilized in the production of medicinal products, as aromatizers and taste correctors in cosmetics and perfumery, in the maintenance of public premises (specifically fir oil), in the varnish and paint industry, and in tooth and hair care for preventive or curative dermatological roles.
claimVolatile oils are liquid substances that are highly volatile, flammable, possess an aromatic or sometimes irritating smell, and have a burning taste.
claimThe volatile oil of Achillea millefolium is contraindicated for pregnant women because it can cause dizziness and headaches.
claimSome volatile oils have demonstrated antitumor activity and insecticidal properties.
measurementAchillea millefolium (mouse's tail) contains volatile oil in its floral somites (Millefolium flos) at a concentration of 0.1% to 0.5%.
claimVolatile oils exhibit high percutaneous penetration capacity when incorporated into shampoos or bath emulsions.
claimVolatile oils have been known since the 5th century BC and have historically occupied an important place in human civilization.
Medicinal plants and human health: a comprehensive review of ... link.springer.com Nov 5, 2025 1 fact
claimMedicinal plants are beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory illnesses and dermatological problems, and the primary constituents of volatile oils from these plants exhibit activity against pathogenic bacteria and enhance therapeutic efficacy according to Patel and Patel (2024).
Phytochemical and Pharmacological Studies of Traditionally Used ... heraldopenaccess.us 1 fact
claimVitex Negundo, also known as the chaste tree, contains bioactive compounds including volatile oils, flavonoids, lignans, iridoids, terpenes, and steroids in its leaves, seeds, and roots.
Medicinal plants: bioactive compounds, biological activities ... frontiersin.org 1 fact
claimThe volatile oil of Lablab purpureus exhibits antibacterial activity against burn isolates.