Evaluation of the Harmonizing Effect of Ylang-Ylang Oil on Humans after Inhalation

Abstract

Scientific evaluations of the effects of fragrances on humans are rather scarce. The aim of this investigation was to study the effects of ylang-ylang oil (Cananga odorata, Annonaceae) on human physiological parameters and self-evaluation. Twenty-four healthy volunteers participated in the experiments. Fragrances were administered by inhalation. Physiological parameters recorded were skin temperature, pulse rate, breathing rate and blood pressure. Self-evaluation was assessed in terms of alertness, attentiveness, calmness, mood, relaxation and vigor. Additionally, fragrances were rated in terms of pleasantness, intensity and effect. The present investigation showed that ylang-ylang oil may be characterized by the concept of ”harmonization” rather than relaxation/sedation. Compared to an odorless placebo, ylang-ylang oil caused significant decreases in blood pressure and pulse rate as well as significant increases of subjective attentiveness and alertness. Correlational analyses revealed that the observed effects are mainly due to a subjective odor experience.

Human physiological parameters - Inhalation - subjective evaluation - ylang-ylang oil - Cananga odorata - Annonaceae

References

• 1 Tisserand R. The Art of Aromatherapy. Somerset (Frome): Hillman Printers 1993: 79
• 2 Jellinek J S. Psychodynamic odor effects and their mechanisms.  Cosmet & Toiletr. 1997;  112 61-71
• 3 Lorig T S, Schwartz G E. Brain and odor: I. Alteration of human EEG by odor administration.  Psychobiology. 1998;  16 281-4
• 4 Van Toller S, Behan J, Howells P, Kendal-Reed M, Richardson A. An analysis of spontaneous human cortical EEG activity to odors.  Chemical Senses. 1993;  18 1-16
• 5 Brauchli P, Ruegg P B, Etzweiler F, Zeier H. Electrocortical and autonomic alteration by administration of a pleasant and an unpleasant odor.  Chemical Senses. 1995;  20 505-15
• 6 Degel J, Köster E P. Odors: implicit memory and performance effects.  Chemical Senses. 1999;  24 317-25
• 7 Ilmberger J, Heuberger E, Mahrhofer C, Dessovic H, Kowarik D, Buchbauer G. On the influence of essential oils on human attention I: Alertness.  Chemical Senses. 2001;  26 239-45
• 8 Moss M, Cook J, Wesnes K, Duckett P. Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults.  Int J Neurosci. 2003;  113 15-38
• 9 Kovar K A, Gropper B, Friess D, Ammon H PT. Blood levels of 1,8-cineol and locomotor activity of mice after inhalation and oral administration of rosemary oil.  Planta Med. 1987;  53 315-8
• 10 Buchbauer G, Jirovetz L, Jaeger W, Plank C, Dietrich H. Fragrance compounds and essential oils with sedatives effects upon inhalation.  J Pharm Sci. 1993;  82 660-4
• 11 Schwartz R K. Olfaction and muscle activity: an EMG pilot study.  Am J Occup Ther. 1979;  33 185-92
• 12 Heuberger E, Hongratanaworakit T, Boehm C, Weber R, Buchbauer G. Effects of chiral fragrances on human autonomic nervous system parameters and self-evaluation.  Chemical Senses. 2001;  26 281-92
• 13 Grings W W, Dawson M E. Emotions and bodily responses. A psychophysiological approach. New York; Academic Press 1978: 92
• 14 Buchbauer G. Lavender oil and its therapeutic properties. In: Lis-Balchin M (Ed.) Lavender. The genus Lavandula . London, New York; Taylor & Francis 2002: 124-39
• 15 Uehleke B. Phytobalneologie.  Z Phytother. 1996;  17 26-43
• 16 Hongratanaworakit T, Heuberger E, Buchbauer G. Evaluation of the effects of East Indian sandalwood oil and α-santalol on humans after transdermal absorption.  Planta Med. 2004;  70 3-7
• 17 Heuberger E, Ilmberger J, Hartter E, Buchbauer G. Effects of fragrances on attentional and physiological processes: evidence for a pharmacological mechanism. 30th ISEO September 5 - 8, 1999 Leipzig, Germany; book of abstracts A-09
• 18 Hongratanaworakit T, Heuberger E, Buchbauer G. Effects of sandalwood oil and a-santalol on humans I: Inhalation. 31st ISEO September 10 - 13, 2000 Hamburg, Germany; book of abstracts A-37