Antimicrobial activity antispasmodic effects

The biological properties of vasicine (184) and vasicinone (185) have been studied in some detail. Vasicine (184) was investigated for antispasmodic, cholegogic," antimicrobial, and anthelmintic activities. Its effects on the circulation and on the peristaltic and secretory functions of the gastrointestinal tract have also been studied, as has the anthelmintic effect of vasicinone (185). ... 

About 120 chemical constituents have been identified in chamomile as secondary metabolites, including 28 terpenoids, 36 flavonoids and 52 additional compounds [4]. A substantial part of drag effects are determined by the essential oil content. Oil is collected from flower heads, either by steam distillation or solvent extraction, for yields of 0.24-1.90% of fresh or dry plant tissue. Among the essential oil constituents the most active are /-/-a-bisabolol and chamazulene. /-/-a-bisabolol has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, antiulcer, sedative and CNS activity. Chamazulene is also anti-inflammatory. Topical applications of chamomile preparation have shown benefit in the treatment of eczema, dermatitis and ulceration [5]. 

Lavender oil has been demonstrated to exhibit CNS-depressive activities on experimental animals (e.g., mice). Such activities include anticonvulsive effects, inhibition of the spontaneous motor activity, and potentiation of the narcotic effects of chloral hydrate. The hydroalcoholic extract of the flowers of L. stoechas has similar activities. Spike lavender oil has been reported to have spasmolytic effects on smooth muscles of laboratory animals. The mode of antispasmodic action is believed to occur postsynaptically. Lavender has recently been included in aromatherapy preparations that were shown to be effective in dysmenorrhea, in reducing anger, pain and anxiety, and in producing a state of calmness and enhanced well-being. The tincture of L. angustifolia was also found to be effective as an adjuvant to imipramine in the treatment of nuld to moderate depression. Lavender oil has also been reported to have antimicrobial (antibacterial, antifungal) and antiparasitic activities. 

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