Linalool

Found in lavender, sweet basil, mint and many cannabis strains.

Provides relief from anxiety and stress, mild sedation for better sleep, and neuroprotective properties.

When inhaled- molecules bind to receptors in your nose. This sends signals from your olfactory nerve straight to the emotional and stress center (the Amygdala).(1) Due to its direct route, the benefits quickly onset within 1 to 2 minutes. Inhaling linalool lowers stress hormones (cortisol) and blood pressure. It also induces a mild sedation to help improve relaxation and sleep without impairing basic motor function.(2) Studies also show that patients who would inhale linalool rich lavender oil post surgery required 50% less opioids, like morphine, due to linalools pain relieving properties.(3)

When Ingested- Modulates neurotransmitters, interacting with GABA receptors and serotonin pathways. This process helps produce calming, anti anxiety effects.(4) When in the gastrointestinal tract, linalool will disrupt fungal and bacterial cell membranes, contributing to overall microbial balance.(5) Ingesting linalool can also have anti-oxidizing properties, protecting organs like the liver and kidney by mitigating oxidative stress and reducing cellular damage.(6)

When Applied Topically- Linalool can help with skin irritation, reduce redness and soothe skin post breakout or bug bite. Its anti microbial properties are prominent with it targeting acne causing bacteria and managing a balanced skin microbiome.(7) Studies have also shown that linalool can enhance skin permeability. When mixed with other formulas, it boosts other active ingredients ability to penetrate the skin barrier and absorb more effectively.(8)

Linalool is used in a variety of everyday products such as soaps, shampoos, cleaning products, perfumes, and candles.

Sources

1.Therapeutic Effect and Mechanisms of Essential Oils in Mood Disorders: Interaction between the Nervous and Respiratory Systems

2.Linalool as a Therapeutic and Medicinal Tool in Depression Treatment: A Review

3.Treatment with lavender aromatherapy in the post-anesthesia care unit reduces opioid requirements of morbidly obese patients undergoing laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding

4.Metabolic Products of Linalool and Modulation of GABAA Receptors

5.Antimicrobial Activity and Proposed Action Mechanism of Linalool Against Pseudomonas fluorescens

6.Protection of CCl4-induced hepatic and renal damage by linalool

7.Natural Compounds in the Battle against Microorganisms—Linalool

8.Improvement in Skin Penetration Capacity of Linalool by Using Microemulsion as a Delivery Carrier: Formulation Optimization and In Vitro Evaluation