EFFECTS OF LINALOOL ON GLUTAMATERGIC SYSTEM IN THE RAT CEREBRAL-CORTEX

Linalool is a monoterpene compound reported to be a major component of essential oils in various aromatic species. Several Linalool-producin g species are used in traditional medical systems, including Aeolanthu s suaveolens G. Dom (Labiatae) used as anticonvulsant in the Brazilian Amazon. Psychopharmacological in vivo evaluation of Linalool showed t hat this compound have dose-dependent marked sedative effects at the C entral Nervous System, including hypnotic, anticonvulsant and hypother mic properties. The present study reports an inhibitory effect of Lina lool on Glutamate binding in rat cortex. It is suggested that this neu rochemical effect might be underlining Linalool psychopharmacological effects. These findings provide a rational basis for many of the tradi tional medical use of Linalool producing plant species.