Biological activity of vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides) essential oil in human dermal fibroblasts

Abstract

Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides) essential oil (VEO) has a long history of use. However, research on its biological activity in human skin cells is scarce. In this study, we investigated the biological activity of VEO in a pre-inflamed human dermal fibroblast model, which was designed to mimic the disease biology of chronic inflammation and fibrosis. We analyzed the impact of VEO on the levels of 17 important protein biomarkers pertinent to immune response and tissue remodeling. VEO exhibited strong antiproliferative activity in these cells and significantly inhibited the production of collagen III, an important molecule for skin and tissue remodeling processes. We also studied the effect of VEO on regulating genome-wide gene expression. VEO robustly impacted many genes and signaling pathways that are closely related to tissue remodeling and metabolism, among others. Specifically, VEO significantly impacted pathways for cholesterol synthesis and metabolism. This study provides the first evidence of the biological activity of VEO in human dermal fibroblasts. Though a definite conclusion remains elusive, the data suggest that VEO has therapeutic potential for both cosmetic and metabolic health care products. Further research into VEO’s biological and pharmacological mechanisms of action is recommended.

Keywords:

• vetiver essential oil
• trans-isovalencenol
• khusimol
• vetiselinenol
• collagen iii
• inflammation
• cholesterol
• tissue remodeling
• anti-diabetic
• skin health
• wound healing

Public Interest Statement

Vetiver essential oil (VEO) has become increasingly popular for health purposes globally. This study looks at the impact of VEO in a human skin disease model of chronic inflammation. It was found that VEO has potential wound-healing activities. The impact of VEO on global gene expression was also analyzed. VEO diversely affects many genes involving metabolism and tissue remodeling processes; specifically, it influences cholesterol metabolism. These findings suggest that VEO may be a good therapeutic candidate for skincare and obesity. Therefore, this study provides an important stepping stone for further research on VEO and its health benefits for human beings. Additional research focusing on how VEO impacts these genes and processes is recommended.

Competing Interest

Xuesheng Han and Tory L. Parker are employees of dōTERRA, where the study agent VEO was manufactured.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Xuesheng Han

At dōTERRA, our group primarily studies the health benefits of essential oils. We are specifically interested in the efficacy and safety of essential oils and their active components. Our studies of essential oils in both in vitro and clinical settings utilize a variety of experimental approaches, including analytical, biological, biochemical, and biomedical methodologies. We work closely with hospitals, clinics, and research institutes towards developing quality essential oils with therapeutic benefits. The research work discussed in this paper represents one part of a large research project, which was designed to extensively examine the impact of essential oils on human cells. This study, along with others, will further the understanding of the health benefits of essential oils for a wide research audience. We believe that a full understanding of these health benefits will ultimately lead to the evaluation and use of essential oils as an adjunctive therapy for a variety of diseases.