Musk

Generic name: Moschus Moschiferus L.
Brand names: Deer Musk, Musk, Tonquin Musk

Usage of Musk

Anti-inflammatory/antihistaminic activity

Animal data

In a study investigating musk inhibitory effects on acute and chronic inflammation models, including a carrageenan-induced edema and formalin arthritis model, anti-inflammatory effects were thought to be related to the reduction of histamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) content in inflammatory tissues. In another study, musk showed antihistaminic effects, also potentially due to anti–5-HT effects.(Liu 2021) The anti-inflammatory activity of musk has been reported to exceed that of phenylbutazone in rats with experimentally induced adjuvant arthritis.(Taneja 1973)

Cardiovascular activity

Animal and in vitro data

Animal and in vitro studies have shown that musk, in particular muscone, may have a protective role in cardiovascular disease as a result of various mechanisms.(Liu 2021)

Antithrombin activity of musk was analyzed by thrombin titration in an in vitro study. Results supported antithrombin activity and also highlighted the fact that different musk species and producing areas affect the antithrombin activity potency. It is therefore necessary to pay attention to the species and producing areas in the process of musk domestication.(Luo 2018)

Cerebral ischemic injury

Animal data

Cell models have shown that musk ketone induces neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation in cerebral ischemia via activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. This highlights the potential of musk ketone as a physiologically validated approach for the treatment of cerebral ischemia.(Zhou 2020)

Olfactory effects

Animal data

In vivo mice studies have shown that musk effectively ameliorates chronic stress–induced behavioral, biochemical, and neuronal structural changes in the main olfactory bulb, mostly through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.(Almohaimeed 2021)

Other uses

Musk may have spasmolytic, CNS-depressant, stimulant, and antibacterial activity.(Khan 2010)

Musk side effects

As with many naturally derived compounds that are applied topically, there is the potential for skin hypersensitivity reactions. Musk components are known to cause a variety of dermal reactions, including pigmented dermatitis following the application of musk-containing rouge.(Hayakawa 1991) Photoallergic contact dermatitis following the use of musk-containing fragrances has also been observed.(Megahed 1991) In a survey of dermatology clinics in Scandinavia, musk ambrette (a plant that has a musky aroma) was among the leading topical photosensitizers reported.(Thune 1988) This material was similarly cited as one of the most photosensitizing compounds in a Mayo Clinic photopatch testing study.(Menz 1988)

Before taking Musk

Compounds derived from the musk deer are highly lipophilic and accumulate in human fat and milk. Although musk is primarily used topically, caution is warranted during use in pregnancy and lactation because of a lack of toxicity data.(Schlumpf 1998)

How to use Musk

Clinical data are lacking to provide dosing recommendations.

Musk pod formulations are recognized as a source of banned steroidal substances often identified in sports drug testing.(Thevis 2013)

Warnings

A review of the scientific literature revealed no reports of systemic toxicity with the use of musk.

What other drugs will affect Musk

A dose-dependent induction of CYP1A1 and 1A2 was observed in the liver microsomes of adult rats fed synthetic musk. Substrates for CYP1A2 include acetaminophen, caffeine, tamoxifen, theophylline, and warfarin. Although clinical and drug interaction data are lacking, caution may be warranted when concomitantly using musk with a narrow therapeutic index drug (eg, warfarin).(Schlumpf 1998)

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