Abstract
Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) is a xerophytic biennial plant typical for the Mediterranean region. It is cultivated
for its essential oil, which is widely used in the flavor and fragrance industry as
well as in aromatherapy for its relaxing and immunomodulatory effect. In this pilot
investigation, clary sage essential oil was analyzed by GC-MS as well as GC-FID and
examined regarding its effects on pulse, blood pressure and mood in healthy human
female and male subjects. Analysis of the used CSEO identified linalylacetat (61.3%)
and linalool (22.1%) as main compounds. Sclareol was found at 0.3%. In the first experiment
with 30 participants (with 15 female), CSEO, diluted in peanut oil, was administered
to the left forearm, leading to an increase in pulse rate in women (peanut oil served
as control). In men, pulse rate deceased over time (p = 0.013). In the second experiment
(32 participants; 16 females) the oil was inhaled for 30 min (pure water as control).
The
observed decrease of pulse rate was significantly stronger in women than in men
(p = 0.026). To evaluate the influence of the mode of application, a comparison of
both experiments was performed showing a significant difference between sexes for
the parameter of pulse rate (p = 0.034). Overall, the effects elicited by CSEO may
depend on application method (inhaled/dermal) and sex (male/female).
Key words
Salvia sclarea
- Lamiaceae - sclareol - GC-MS/GC-FID - inhalation - dermal - human