On the anti-spasmodic and anesthetic properties of benzaldehyde

Abstract

In several publications appearing elsewhere the author has described his investigations concerning the pharmacological properties of some benzyl esters on the one hand, and of benzyl alcohol on the other. 1

Following these studies it was but logical to inquire into the properties of benzaldehyde, a chemical substance closely related to the above. Accordingly, experiments were instituted with the object of determining whether benzaldehyde exhibits the antispasmodic properties of benyzl benzoate on the one hand, and the local anesthetic properties of phenmethylol or benzyl alcohol on the other.

Benzaldehyde is sufficiently soluble in water (0.2 per cent.) to admit of experimentation on isolated tissues in vitro. Experiments with solutions of benzaldehyde on various isolated smoothmuscle organs were found to show that benzaldehyde relaxes the tonus and inhibits the contractions of such organs. Experiments with the drug on whole animals and observations of various organs in situ revealed also a sedative effect. Perhaps the chief exception to the rule was in case of blood pressure experiments. It was found that the pressure did not fall after injections of benzaldehyde solutions or suspensions except when large quantities were injected intravenously.

More interesting than the effect on smooth-muscle is the local anesthetic action of benzaldehyde. Experiments with aqueous solutions and more concentrated suspensions or emulsions of benzaldehyde showed that that substance possesses definite and marked local anesthetic properties. Thus it was found that it anesthetizes the sensory nerve endings of the frog's skin, of the cornea, and of the human mucous membranes. Furthermore, benzaldehyde solutions were found to paralyze also nerve conduction.

The toxicology of benzaldehyde has been worked out long ago, owing to its presence, in combination with hydrocyanic acid, in bitter almonds and other plants. As is well known, benzaldehyde is very little toxic, and can be taken by mouth in large quantities without any injurious effects.