Insights on Juniperus phoenicea Essential Oil as Potential Anti-Proliferative, Anti-Tyrosinase, and Antioxidant Candidate

Abstract

In this study, the anti-cancer, anti-tyrosinase, and antioxidant activities of essential oils (EOs) of berries and leaves of Juniperus phoenicea grown wild in North of Tunisia were investigated. The EO yields from leaves and berries were 1.69% and 0.45%, respectively. GC-MS analysis revealed that α-pinene is the predominant component in both EOs (44.17 and 83.56%, respectively). Leaves essential oil presented high levels of β-phellandrene (18%) and camphene (15%). The EOs displayed cytotoxic effects against MCF-7 breast cancer cell, HT-29 colon cancer, and the normal cells H9C2 cardiomyoblasts. Leaves oil strongly inhibited colon cell line proliferation (IC50 of 38 µg/mL), while berries essential oil was more potent against breast cancerous cells MCF-7 (IC50 of 60 µg/mL). Interestingly, berries essential oil exhibited high ability to inhibit melanin synthesis by inhibiting enzyme mono and diphenolase activities. Overall, the results suggested that the two oils are significant sources of healthy natural chemicals.

Phytochemical characterization of forest leaves extracts and application to control apple postharvest diseases

“…These ROS can damage fungal cells and weaken their defenses, making them more susceptible to the membranous assaults of the monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes 100 . In an accordant study, the potential of thymol and carvacrol enhanced the disruption of fungal membranes by monoterpenes, acting as synergistic co-solvents 103 .…”

“…The antioxidant shield of these essential oils provided by phenolic compounds weakens fungal defenses, allowing monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes to suppress pathogens. This combined assault amplifies the individual powers of each compound, creating a robust and multifaceted defense system 56 , 57 , 103 .…”