Eucalyptol, also known as 1,8-cineole, is a monoterpene traditionally used to treat respiratory disorders due to its secretolytic properties. In addition to its myorelaxant effects, it also has anti-inflammatory actions in vitro. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of acute treatment with 1,8-cineole on reducing airway inflammatory parameters. Ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized guinea pigs were submitted to antigenic challenge (OVA) with or without pre-treatment with a single dose of 1,8-cineole administered by inhalation. Airway inflammatory parameters were reduced or absent in 1,8-cineole-treated animals as compared with untreated guinea pigs. Acute treatment with 1,8-cineole impaired the development of airway hyperresponsiveness to carbachol in isolated tracheal rings. Levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNFα and IL-1β was lower in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of 1,8-cineol-treated guinea pigs than in untreated animals. 1,8-Cineole impaired the OVA-induced increase of the myeloperoxidase activity in BALF. 1,8-Cineole also prevented the reduction of the mucociliary clearance induced by the antigen presentation. The present investigation provides evidence that inhaled 1,8-cineole prevents hyperresponsiveness and inhibits inflammation in airways of ovalbumin-challenged guinea pigs.
