Inhibitory effects of Zataria multiflora essential oil and its main components on nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide production in glucose-stimulated human monocyte

► Zataria multiflora essential oil has antioxidant properties and can reduce oxidative stress. ► High glucose concentration can produce large amounts of NO and H2O2 in monocytes. ► Pretreatment of monocytes with the essential oil reduces NO and H2O2 production. ► Pretreatment of the monocytes with the essential oil reduces NOS and NADH oxidase activity. ► The reduction in NO and H2O2 is likely related to the reduction in related enzyme activity.