Oxidative DNA damage preventive activity of essential oils of three Pinus species: P. mugo, P. sibirica, and P. silvestre

Abstract

Pharmacological properties of essential oils of Pinus species are mainly associated with antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory potencies. However, only limited scientific information has been gathered regarding the genotoxic and antigenotoxic activities of Pinus essential oils. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the in vitro DNA protective activities of three commercial essential oils of Pinus species: P. mugo, P. sibirica, and P. silvestre, against the oxidative damage induced by hydroxyl and peroxyl radicals. The tested essential oils significantly reduced the DNA damage caused by the free radicals. Due to its capacity to decrease DNA damage, essential oils of Pinus species can be of great importance in clinical applications.