Citral (Geranial + Neral)

Preliminary

Mechanism of Action

Antagonizes voltage-gated calcium channels in smooth muscle, reducing calcium-dependent contraction — the primary antispasmodic mechanism. Activates TRPA1 and TRPV1 transient receptor potential channels at high concentrations, paradoxically producing brief counterirritant effects. Exhibits anxiolytic effects in animal models through GABAergic modulation, consistent with traditional nervine use. Antimicrobial activity via disruption of bacterial membrane potential.

Research Notes

Lemon VerbenaWestern

Animal studies demonstrate dose-dependent antispasmodic and anxiolytic effects from citral-rich essential oils including lemon verbena. Human clinical evidence is primarily pharmacokinetic and aromatherapy-based. In vitro antimicrobial studies show citral inhibits Helicobacter pylori and Candida albicans at clinically relevant concentrations, supporting traditional use for digestive complaints. The anxiolytic effect of lemon verbena tea has face-validity in several small observational and open-label studies.

Found In 1 Herb

Lemon Verbena

Western

3D Molecular Structure

Monoterpene aldehyde (acyclic)

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Citral (Geranial + Neral)

Monoterpene aldehyde (acyclic)Aromatic plant metabolites with anti-inflammatory properties

Representative pattern: C₁₀H₁₆O

Atoms

Carbon

Oxygen

Hydrogen

Live Research

Open on PubMed

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