Integrated in vitro - in vivo evaluation of Angelica sinensis essential oil as an anti-acne agent: Mechanistic insights into bioactive compounds and multi-target therapeutic actions.

Abstract

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder of the pilosebaceous unit for which topical therapies remain first-line treatments. Current options, however, often exhibit limited efficacy, adverse effects, and antibiotic resistance, necessitating safer alternatives. Angelica sinensis (Danggui) has been traditionally used in dermatology to treat skin astringency and itching while nourishing the skin, yet its essential oil remains largely unexplored for acne treatment. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study evaluated the therapeutic potential, bioactive components, and molecular mechanisms of Angelica sinensis essential oil (AEO) in acne treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: AEO was extracted from the dried roots of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels. We employed an integrated approach to assess AEO's anti-acne potential by: (1) evaluating efficacy in a mouse acne model and through in vitro antibacterial assays against Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes); (2) characterizing compounds via GC-MS analysis; (3) investigating mechanisms using network pharmacology; and (4) validating targets through molecular docking and cellular assays. RESULTS: AEO demonstrated significant anti-acne effects comparable to adapalene gel but with reduced side effects, attributed to its suppression of C. acnes and downregulation of IL-1β. Seven key bioactive compounds were identified: α-pinene, germacrene D, trans-ligustilide, cis-ligustilide, espatulenol, methyl linoleate, and n-hexadecanoic acid. Network pharmacology revealed five core targets (NR3C1, AR, TNF, TLR4, and IL-10), with AEO downregulating AR, TLR4, and TNF while upregulating IL-10 and NR3C1, supporting its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and androgen receptor-inhibiting properties. Further analysis suggested AEO primarily acts on skin fibroblasts, macrophages, T cells, Langerhans cells, and B cells to modulate these targets. CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrate that 5 %-10 % AEO is a promising topical treatment for acne, offering efficacy with improved safety.