Therapeutic Potential of 2,5-Dimethoxy-p-Cymene and Thymol methyl ether from Arnica montana Essential Oils: Neuro-protection and Stress Mitigation

Arnica Montana (AM), a medicinal plant traditionally used in India for stress-related conditions, has been studied for its bioactive compounds. In this study, two isolated AM compounds, 2,5-dimethoxy-p-cymene (DMC) and thymol-methyl ether (TME), were evaluated for their impact on different stress induced models to access the oxidant and neurotransmitters level in the different brain regions. CUS exposure (two daily stressors over seven days) significantly altered the monoamines levels, which were normalized by pretreatment with DMC and TME (50 mg/kg p.o.). CUS also reduced the levels of different neurotransmitters levels like noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine. Additionally, stress also affects the glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) levels. Moreover, it is increasing the lipid peroxidation (MDA). Treatment with DMC and TME attenuated these CUS-induced changes, similar to the effects of Panax quinquefolium as reference. In this study we are focusing on the potential of DMC and TME in managing stress-related disorders.