Interestingly, the effects of aromatherapy may extend beyond emotional benefits. Research indicates that certain essential oils, including lavender and lemon, may interact with neurotransmitter systems, such as dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways, thereby contributing to their anxiolytic effects (Lv et al., 2013).
For example, lavender has calming effects. This is partly due to its ability to modulate the serotonin pathway. The serotonin pathway is often referred to as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter pathway. Similarly, compounds found in bergamot oil may interact with the GABAergic system, which plays a significant role in our stress response (Rombolà et al., 2017). Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an essential inhibitory neurotransmitter of the adult central nervous system (CNS).
This issue is particularly intriguing, given that medications commonly prescribed for long-term, debilitating conditions like anxiety and mood disorders often have severe side effects. These adverse effects can deter patients from adhering to their treatment plans.
For example, extended use of benzodiazepines can lead to unwanted symptoms. These include sleepiness, lethargy, dizziness, vertigo, and sedation. There is also the potential for developing tolerance and dependence. In recent years, these side effects have prompted many patients to turn to alternative treatments, with aromatherapy emerging as a beneficial complement to their existing healthcare regimens (Rombolà et al., 2017).
Aromatherapy’s unique ability to interact with various neurological pathways is significant. This suggests its promising role as a complementary therapy in managing anxiety disorders. However, further research is still necessary to fully understand the precise mechanisms.
More information is available from: Pathways to Peace: A Journey Through Aromatherapy, Music, Meditation, and Exercise for Anxiety Relief.
References:
Lv, X. N., Liu, Z. J., Zhang, H. J., & Tzeng, C. M. (2013). Aromatherapy and the central nerve system (CNS): therapeutic mechanism and its associated genes. Current Drug Targets, 14(8), 872-879.
Rombolà, L., Tridico, L., Scuteri, D., Sakurada, T., Sakurada, S., Mizoguchi, H., … & Corasaniti, M. T. (2017). Bergamot essential oil attenuates anxiety-like behaviour in rats. Molecules, 22(4), 614.
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