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beta-Thujone

Moderate
Monoterpene ketone

Mechanism of Action

beta-Thujone acts as a noncompetitive GABA-A receptor antagonist, blocking chloride ion conductance at the picrotoxin site. At anthelmintic doses it disrupts neuromuscular coordination in intestinal parasites by interfering with invertebrate GABA-gated chloride channels. At toxic doses in mammals, GABA-A blockade causes CNS excitation, tonic-clonic seizures, and potentially fatal status epilepticus.

Research Notes

TansyWestern

The convulsant mechanism of thujone was definitively characterized by Hold et al. (2000) using electrophysiology on recombinant GABA-A receptors. In vitro anthelmintic assays demonstrate vermicidal activity against Ascaris suum at concentrations achievable with oral dosing (Kaul et al., 1976). Case reports of tansy oil poisoning document seizures, hepatotoxicity, and renal failure at estimated doses as low as 10 mL of essential oil.

Found In 1 Herb

Tansy

Tansy

Western

3D Molecular Structure

Monoterpene ketone
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beta-Thujone

Monoterpene ketoneAromatic plant metabolites with anti-inflammatory properties

Representative pattern: C₁₀H₁₆O

Atoms
Carbon
Oxygen
Hydrogen

Related Compounds (Monoterpene ketone)

Artemisia Ketone(1)Carvone(2)Carvone (R-(-)-carvone)(1)Diosphenol (Buchu Camphor)(1)Fenchone(2)Isomenthone(1)Pulegone(3)

Live Research

Open on PubMed

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal product.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.