Linalool is a monoterpene that is found naturally in many aromatic plants but most often associated with lavender. This terpene is known to affect the central nervous system and exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and anti-oxidant biological effects. Linalool’s insect repellent properties are also well documented, which could lead to more Eco-friendly pest management. As a general rule, linalool is non-toxic to humans when inhaled in small amounts.
A study on the effects of inhaled linalool on anxiety, aggressiveness and social interaction in mice produced some very exciting results. What was shown is that linalool decreased anxiety in the test subjects, increased social interaction and decreased aggressive behavior. This report concludes that inhaling linalool or linalool-rich essential oils can be useful as a means to achieve relaxation and counteract anxiety. Another study by the same author on the sedative qualities of linalool showed that mice inhaling linalool for 1h seemed to induce sedation without a major impairment of motor abilities – a side effect that usually occurs with pharmaceuticals designed to achieve the same thing.
Another report into stress response with linalool shows that inhalation of this terpene represses stress-induced effects on the profiles of both blood cells and gene expression. This concludes that inhalation of linalool can lower stress-induced changes in the body.
In summary, linalool lowers anxiety and gives feelings of calmness & relaxation.
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Resources:
Kamatou & Viljoen (2008). Linalool – a Review of a Biologically Active Compound of Commercial Importance. Natural Product Communications, https://doi.org/10.1177/1934578X0800300727
Linck et al (2009). Effects of inhaled Linalool in anxiety, social interaction and aggressive behavior in mice. Phytomedicine: International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacology 17(8-9); 679-683.
Linck et al 2 (2009). Inhaled linalool-induced sedation in mice. Phytomedicine 16(4): 303-307.
Nakamura et al (2009). Stress Repression in Restrained Rats by (R)-(-)-Linalool Inhalation and Gene Expression Profiling of Their Whole Blood Cells. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 57(12): 5480-5485.