Bisabolol

Alpha-bisabolol, also known as levomenol, is a chemical compound from the series of isomeric bisabolols. It is a monocyclic sesquiterpene alcohol. Alpha-bisabolol is found in chamomile oil (Matricaria recutitia) and in chamomile flowers (see Matricaria flos below) in relevant quantities.

Alpha-bisabolol has a variety of effects. It improves gastric totality, promotes skin circulation and wound granulation and has an antiviral effect, especially against herpes simplex. In addition, it has antibacterial effects especially against gram-positive bacteria; antiphlogistic, gastro- or ulcer-protective, antioxidative, spasmolytic and antimycotic.

The antibacterial effect is achieved by disturbing the electron transport in the bacterial cell wall and by blocking bacterial enzymes by reversible storage in the cell membrane.
The antiphlogistic effect is achieved by inhibition of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase. A spasmolytic effect is achieved by inhibition of calcium mobilisation in the cells of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract.
A gastro- or ulcer-protective effect is achieved by inhibition of pepsin and hydrochloric acid formation in the cells of the gastric mucosa. In addition, endogenous prostaglandin synthesis is promoted and the mucosal protective barrier of the stomach wall against ulcer-inducing aggressive substances is strengthened.

Alpha-bisabolol is used for persistent or recurrent abdominal discomfort as well as mortality related gastrointestinal disorders. In addition, it is used for dyspeptic complaints of the reflux and/or ulcer type, existing neurodermatitis and keratoderma as well as vulvovaginitis. Further indications are wounds that are difficult to heal, periodontitis, prosthesis infections, actinic keratosis in connection with inflamed skin, dermatomycoses, onychomycosis and as an accompanying therapy for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

For internal use as application of an alcoholic camomile flower tincture reinforced with alpha-bisabolol, 10 to 20 drops on 10 ml DAB camomile fluid extract.
For external use as an application of alpha-bisabolol either as a pure substance without additives or as an emulsion. Add 10 parts alpha-bisabolol together with 10 parts Tween 20 + 80 parts distilled water. For a full bath add 100 ml of this emulsion to the bath.

To make an ointment: 60 parts almond oil, 35 parts spermaceti, 4 parts alpha-bisabolol and 1 part vitamin E acetate

Sensicutan® (0.3% alpha-bisabolol cream)

1. Lee J et al (2010) Whitening effect of alpha-bisabolol in Asian women subjects. Int J Cosmet Sci 32:299-303.
2. Maurya AK et al (2014) alpha-bisabolol reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine production and ameliorates skin inflammation. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 15:173-181.
3. Solovăstru LG et al,(2016) Randomized, controlled study of innovative spray formulation containing ozonated oil and α-bisabolol in the topical treatment of chronic venous leg ulcers. Adv Skin Wound Care 28:406-409.
4. Veraldi S et al,(2009) Treatment of pruritus in mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis with a topical non-steroidal agent. J Drugs Dermatol 8:537-539.