The potential of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) essential oil as an anti-anxiety agent – is the citronellal the activity carrier?

Thu, 06/29/2023 - 09:42

June 28, 2023

Anxiety is a growing issue in society, especially among young people. The terms anxious and being nervous are often used interchangeably, and it is pretty common to hear someone say that he is feeling anxious when faced with a situation that makes them uncomfortable. Normal anxiety levels represent our body alarm system, which improves people's attention and problem-solving, motivates work towards goal, and does not negatively interfere with daily functioning. Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric conditions; up to 33.7% of people suffer from an anxiety disorder during their lifetime. Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric conditions; up to 33.7% of people suffer from an anxiety disorder during their lifetime.  Among the fewest drugs discovered are those belonging to the class of anxiolytics. Although some drug targets for anxiety disorders are established, it is hard to modify and selectively choose the active principle for those targets. Thus, the ethno medical approach to treating anxiety disorders remains one of the most prevalent ways for (self)managing the symptoms. Melissa officinalis L. (lemon balm) has been extensively used as an ethnomedicinal remedy for the treatment of different psyche-related symptoms, especially dose related to restlessness. According to studies, more than 40% of patients in Serbia suffering from different non-psychotic disorders use different herbal products for the treatment of their symptoms. One of the most frequently used plant species was reported to be Melissa officinalis. 

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Circulation Blend

May 22, 2022

Our body is a complex network of tubes, and the more freely they flow, the healthier we are. Our lymph and circulation are a major component of the free-flow of fluids throughout our body. Massage designed to enhance circulation, especially of the legs, the abdomen and the back, bring wonderful benefits to the whole body.The purpose of the Circulatory Blend is to eliminate stagnation and toxins from the body by increasing healthy circulation through aromatic massage.

Immortelle Essential Oil-Based Ointment Improves Wound Healing in a Diabetic Rat Model  

May 21, 2022

Wound healing is a natural body reaction formed as a tissue response to injury. Restoration of the structural and functional integrity of injured tissues is a very complex and dynamic process involving various overlapping phases such as hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and maturation.  Each phase of healing involves a cascade of cellular and biochemical processes mediated by various growth factors, cytokines and enzymes, which play an inter-dependent and pivotal role in wound healing. Many important factors such as diabetes, hypertension, aging, malnutrition, radiation, and medication use are associated with the compromised capacity of skin to promote self-regeneration and consequent delayed wound healing.  An impairment of the immune system in diabetic patients leads to an increased vulnerability to the contamination of the wound and postpones tissue recovery. On the other hand, poor circulation, as a consequence of hyperglycemia hinder the delivery of defense factors and nutrients to the wound area resulting in a delay or, absence of wound healing.

Advantages of topical formulations in comparison to systemically applied drugs involve deeper penetration into skin, increased bioavailability, and direct action on the site of application. Although various therapeutic regimens involving antibiotics, antiseptics, and anti-inflammatory agents are available for the management of wounds, last decades shed the light on medicinal plants and natural products as a major source of wound healing compounds. A significant increase in the usage of medicinal herbs is the result of greater safety compared to chemical drugs, with more affordable prices. 

Effectiveness of Aromatherapy on Ameliorating Fatigue in Adults: A Meta-Analysis

May 15, 2022

Fatigue is a subjective feeling of tiredness, weakness, or lack of energy and motivation. It is distressing and highly prevalent in adults, particularly in those diagnosed with cancer, receiving hemodialysis or suffering from chronic diseases. It has no specific mechanism and can occur at any disease stage.. Aromatherapy can be delivered by inhalation, massage, compression, or foot baths. Research indicates that aromatic inhalation stimulates the olfactory nerve cells and the integumentary and lymphatic systems, triggering the release of neurotransmitters, such as endorphins, peptides, enkephalin, serotonin, and noradrenaline, which can enhance wellbeing and relaxation, thus reducing chronic stress.  

Review of aromatherapy essential oils and their mechanism of action against migraines

May 14, 2022

Migraine is a type of primary neurovascular dysfunction disease, that is characterized by unilateral or bilateral pulsatile pain, and is accompanied by photophobia, phonophobia, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms IHS. Studies have shown that several mental, environmental and genetics can influence or induce a migraine. Patients with migraine experience many social, physical and psychological problems, which seriously affect their quality of life. Currently, the treatment of migraine primarily includes drug therapy, acupuncture therapy, massage therapy and aromatherapy.

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