Bornyl acetate: A promising agent in phytomedicine for inflammation and immune modulation

Bornyl acetate (BA), as a bicyclic monoterpene, is an active volatile component widely found in plants across the globe. BA can be used as essence and food flavor agent and is widely used in perfumes and food additives. It remains a key component in several proprietary Chinese medicines.

This review summarized the pharmacological activity and research prospects of BA, making it the first of its kind to do so. Our aim is to provide a valuable resource for those pursuing research on BA.

Databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI were used based on search formula "(bornyl acetate) NOT (review)" from 1967 to 2022. For the relevant knowledge of TCM, we quoted Chinese literature. Articles related to agriculture, industry, and economics were excluded.

BA showed rich pharmacological activities: It inhibits the NF-κB signal pathway via affecting the phosphorylation of IKB and the production of IKKs, inhibits the MAPK signal pathway via inhibiting the phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and p38, down-regulates pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, up-regulates IL-11, reduces NO production, regulates immune response via up-regulating CD86⁺, decreases catecholamine secretion, and reduces tau protein phosphorylation. In addition to the pharmacological activities of BA, its toxicity and pharmacokinetics were also discussed in this paper.

BA has promising pharmacological properties, especially anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. It also has sedative properties and potential for use in aromatherapy. Compared to traditional NSAIDs, it has a more favorable safety profile while maintaining efficacy. BA has potential for developing novel drugs for treating various conditions.