Eucalyptusessential oils: chemical profiling and pharmacological potential for sustainable forest cultivation

Eucalyptusstands out as a crucial species for forest cultivation, particularly due to its widespread industrial applications particularly the production of essential oils (EOs). Given the international significance of EucalyptusEOs and their potential to enhance environmental and socioeconomic conditions, the aim of this work is to investigate the chemical composition and pharmacological activities of EOs from nine understudied Eucalyptusspecies. Results showed that oxygenated monoterpenes dominated the chemical profiles, with 1,8-cineole being the predominant component in most species. E. wandoo, E. punctata, and E. diversifoliaexhibited the most effective antiradical actions. All EOs demonstrate α-glucosidase inhibitory effects with IC50values ranging from 1.86 to 3.11 mg/mL. In cytotoxicity assessments, E. wandoodisplayed a remarkable 28-fold higher IC50against Vero than MCF-7. Results highlighted potent anti-inflammatory properties surpassing the positive control for all studied species, with E. punctataexhibiting the best IC50value of 4.42 µg/mL. The tested major compounds, α-pinene and eucalyptol, demonstrated lower efficacy compared to the EOs across all tested activities. This research provides valuable insights for selecting Eucalyptusspecies and underlines the importance of this natural product in order to preserve its natural habitats and implementing reforestation efforts in other areas.