ABSTRACT Ionotropic GABA (GABAA) receptors are major inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors in the brain and are modulated by various compounds such as benzodiazepines, barbiturates, neuro-steroids, general anesthetics and ethanol. We observed the potentiation of the GABAA receptor-mediated response by fragrant compounds present in essential oils used for aromatherapy, and in tea and whiskey. Though the effects of aromatherapy are thought to be due to the stimulation of the olfactory system by the fragrances in essential oils, an additional possibility is that these fragrant compounds are absorbed into the blood and carried to the brain through the blood-brain barrier, and then potentiate the GABAA receptor-mediated response in the brain, which induces anxiolytic, anticonvulsant and sedative activity in the human mind. Fragrant compounds present in beverages may also act similarly.
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