Linalool
Linalool
Linalool is a non-cyclical monoterpenoid and is described as floral and with lavender undertones. High-linalole varieties promote soothing, relaxing effects.
Linalool has been used as a sleeping aid for centuries. Linalool reduces the anxious emotions caused by pure THC, making it useful in the treatment of both psychosis and anxiety. Studies also suggest that linalool stimulates the immune system, can significantly reduce pneumonia and restore cognitive and emotional function (this might make it useful in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease).
As shown by the study of Ma, Xu et al. in 2015, linalool can significantly reduce pneumonia caused by cigarette smoke by blocking the carcinogenesis caused by benz[α]anthracene, a component of the tar formed by the burning of tobacco. This finding indicates that linalool may be useful to reduce the damage caused by inhalation of cannabis smoke.
Linalool stimulates the immune system by directly activating immune cells via specific receptors and/or pathways. The study by Sabogal-Guáqueta et al., also from 2015, suggests that linalool can reverse histopathological (microscopic examination of biological tissues to observe the appearance of diseased cells and tissues in great detail) hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease and restore cognitive and emotional functions through an anti-inflammatory effect.
The Environmental Protection Agency has approved its use as a pesticide, flavor and fragrance. It is used in a wide range of bath and body products and is usually listed among ingredients for these products such as beta linalole, linalyl alcohol, linaloyl oxide, p-linalole and alloocimenol. The fumes have proven to be an effective insecticide against fruit flies, fleas and cockroaches.
Linalool is isolated from hundreds of different plants. The Lamiaceae family of plants and herbs, including mint and other fragrant herbs, are widely used sources. The Lauraceae plant family, including bay laurels, cinnamon and rosewood, is also an easily available source. The Rutaceae family, which contains citrus plants, is another viable source. Birches and other tree species that occur in tropical and boreal climate zones can also produce linalool. And although technically they are not plants, some fungi also produce linalool. Linalool is a critical precursor in the formation of vitamin E.
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