Anxiolytic Terpenoids and Aromatherapy for Anxiety and Depression

Summary & key facts

This paper reviewed research on plant-smelling oils, called essential oils, and their active parts called terpenoids. The authors found animal studies showing that certain terpenoids — especially linalool and others like geraniol, citronellol, and limonene — can reduce anxiety-like behavior and act as gentle sedatives. The likely reason is that these compounds seem to change two brain chemical systems that calm or excite nerve activity. The review points out that aromatherapy might offer relief without some drug side effects, but most strong evidence comes from animals and more human research is needed before drawing firm conclusions for people.

Key facts:

• The authors did a review of existing studies on essential oils and terpenoids for anxiety and depression.
• Many animal studies showed that essential oils containing linalool can reduce anxiety-like behavior and have calming effects.
• Researchers suggest these terpenoids probably work by changing two brain chemical systems: one that calms the brain and one that excites it.
• Common terpenoids linked to calming effects include linalool, geraniol, citronellol, and limonene (or a related compound called citral).
• The review notes aromatherapy could avoid some problems of standard drug treatments, such as dependence, tolerance, or delayed effects, but this claim mainly reflects potential rather than proven benefits in people.
• The authors say more human studies are needed because much of the clear evidence currently comes from animal research, not large clinical trials in people.

Topics

Advanced Chemical Sensor Technologies Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity Olfactory and Sensory Function Studies

Categories

Life Sciences Neuroscience Sensory Systems

Tags

Alternative medicine Anxiety Anxiolytic Aromatherapy Chemistry Chromatography Essential oil Linalool Medicine Pathology Pharmacology Psychiatry Psychology

Substances

Other

Conditions & symptoms

Anxiety Depression Anxiety or worry Sadness or low mood