Exploring the potential anticancer targets and mechanistic pathways of Elsholtzia densa essential oil based on network pharmacology

This study aimed to assess the composition of Elsholtzia densa essential oil (EBE) and identify potential targets for inhibiting human hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation. The plants were collected from four regions: Jiuzhi, Qinghai; Ruoergai, Sichuan; Aba, Sichuan; and Jiulong, Sichuan. Four EBEs (named No. 1 to No. 4) were analyzed by gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer. EBEs significantly inhibited human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. The EBE collected from Jiuzhi exhibited the most potent inhibitory effect. Core targets identified included MAPK3, EGFR, ESR1, CASP3, PTGS2, BCL2L1, and MAPK14. Notably, the four EBEs prevented hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation via neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions and apoptosis pathways.