Evidence supporting the use of: Monoterpenes
For the health condition: Anxiety Disorders

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Monoterpenes, a class of terpenes found in essential oils of many plants (such as limonene in citrus, linalool in lavender, and pinene in pine), have been studied for their potential anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. Preclinical studies (mainly in animal models) and a limited number of small human trials suggest that some monoterpenes may modulate neurotransmitter systems involved in anxiety, such as GABAergic and serotonergic pathways. For instance, linalool has demonstrated anxiolytic-like effects in rodent models, potentially by enhancing GABAergic transmission. Limonene and α-pinene have also shown promising effects in preclinical studies. A few small-scale clinical studies (e.g., aromatherapy with lavender oil containing linalool) report mild reductions in anxiety symptoms in humans, although methodological limitations and the use of whole essential oils (rather than isolated monoterpenes) complicate the interpretation.

Overall, while the traditional use of monoterpene-rich essential oils for relaxation and mood support is widespread, the scientific validation for isolated monoterpenes in treating anxiety disorders specifically remains limited. Evidence is rated as a 2 out of 5 due to promising but mostly preclinical and preliminary clinical findings. Larger, high-quality human trials are needed to better establish efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of action.

More about Monoterpenes
More about Anxiety Disorders

Products containing Monoterpenes

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.