Healing properties of geraniol – a review of the literature

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: In recent years, there has been a significant increase in interest in substances of plant origin that could act as potential therapeutics for prevention as well as for the treatment of many diseases, including infections. As an example, you can give compounds called terpenes, as well as their derivatives, which are components of essential oils. The research showed that they show not only antibacterial and antiviral activity, but also antifungal and antineoplastic. This article is devoted to a literature review which describes the pharmacological and biological properties of geraniol as a compound that could be used in both prophylaxis and treatment of infectious diseases. Literature review: This publication particularly draws attention to the use of geraniol in medicine. Most literature reports show that this compound in many cases has a healing effect. It is classified as monoterpene alcohol, showing a characteristic rose aroma. It can be found in oils such as: ginger, lemon, lime, nutmeg, lavender and orange. Research (both in vitro and in vivo) using geraniol confirmed its efficacy against cancer of the intestine, prostate, liver, kidneys and skin. This action is related to the fact that this compound can induce apoptose as well as increase the expression of proapoptotic proteins. In literature reports, one can also find information that geraniol has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial effects – mainly in diseases related to the digestive and respiratory system. The paper discusses the most important medical applications of geraniol. Conclusions: Nowadays, one can notice a search for new methods of treatment of infectious diseases in the field of medicine (with a bacterial basis and viral), parasitic and fungal. The wide spectrum of geraniol activity in both the biological and pharmacological sphere makes it a good alternative to synthetic agents that are used in medicine. The results of previous studies justify the need for further work leading to the use of geraniol on a much wider scale both in prevention and treatment.