Oxygenated Compounds → Ketones → Monoterpene ketones (Monoterpenones)
Terpene ketones are created through the oxidation of secondary terpene alcohols, featuring a carbonyl or keto group as their functional group.
Formula: 10 C
Ending: -one
Physical and chemical properties:
- Ketones are mainly responsible for the flavours in fruits and vegetables.
Therapeutic properties:
Physical effects: Monoterpene ketones are not only highly compatible with the nervous system, but they also interact well with the skin and mucous membranes. They promote epithelial growth and granulation, aiding in the healing of wounds and improving the scarring process. Additionally, they have a strong mucolytic effect, helping to liquefy mucus in the respiratory system. Their spasmolytic properties provide gentle relief for gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating and gas, while also stimulating bile flow for overall well-being. Furthermore, they exhibit antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Psychic Effect: Aromatic plants rich in monoterpene ketones, like French lavender, sage, and hyssop, were commonly used by shamans for smoking. Inhaling the smoke induced a trance-like state that allowed for deeper understanding of nature and people in a meditative manner, aiding in holistic healing for patients. This practice underlies some cautions regarding essential oils, which do not replicate this effect. Monoterpene ketones are psychotropic compounds that significantly influence brain metabolism. In small amounts, they can provide mental and spiritual clarity, stimulation, and relaxation. They enhance brain metabolism and mobilization. Oils with monoterpene ketones positively impact neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, essential for optimal brain function, and serotonin, which promotes calmness in the 'gut brain' and enhances mood. In moderate doses, they may facilitate communication between the central and enteric nervous systems.
Structure:
Like all molecules, ketone molecules are not flat, two-dimensional shapes; they exist in three-dimensional space. This allows for changes in their spatial shape. Therefore, molecules with different shapes can be made up of the same atoms, and even minor differences can have a significant impact on how these molecules affect the body. For example, (-)-carvone and (+)-carvone are two examples, one being less toxic than the other.
Exemples:
Acyclic: Artemisia ketone
Monocyclic: Menthone, Piperitone, Pulegone
Bicyclic: Camphor, Fenchone, Thujone, Verbenone
Safety warnings:
* When used in excessive amounts, oils rich in monoterpene ketones can be neurotoxic, especially with regular internal use. However, it's crucial to differentiate between internal consumption, which can be risky in large doses, and topical application, which is generally safe unless used in high amounts over a long period on the skin or mucous membranes. Additionally, essential oils high in monoterpene ketones should be avoided by children and pregnant women, as they may lead to adverse effects, including the risk of miscarriage when taken in large quantities.
* They should be well diluted up to a maximum of 2% and only used externally, they should not be used for prolonged periods.
* Hyssop can trigger epileptic seizures. Oils like mugwort and thuja, which contain high levels of the ketones thujone and pulegone, can lead to miscarriage. Therefore, these oils should never be used during pregnancy.
Properties of Monoterpenes Ketones
Camphor is found in the essential oils of lavendin, lavender, rosemary, and sage. An important compound used in various applications, including medical formulations, but is classified as toxic.
Carvone is a cyclic monoterpene ketone that occurs in two chiral forms. Both forms exhibit analgesic properties; l-carvone has antinociceptive effects that do not engage the opioid system, while d-carvone can also attenuate nociception. Both forms are thought to influence Na+ ion channels.
l-Fenchone is a bicyclic monoterpenoid ketone; it has anti-nociceptive activity.
d-Pulegone, a cyclic monoterpene ketone, appears to exhibit effects similar to those of carvone. In addition, it has been shown to act as a COX inhibitor and may also reduce the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
Thujone, harmful and capable of disrupting the central nervous system. It becomes neurotoxic when ingested. A notable example is thujone found in the illicit drink Absinthe. In addition, it can be inhaled to relieve respiratory problems.
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