Essential oils are popular for their healing properties, and monoterpenols are one of the most important components in these oils. Monoterpenols are a type of terpene alcohol that are found in various plants and herbs and have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. They are known for their antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, as well as their ability to regulate the hormonal and cardiovascular systems. In this article, we will explore the properties and physiological benefits of monoterpenols in more detail.
Powerful Antibacterials and Antivirals
Monoterpenols have been found to be powerful antibacterials and antivirals. They work by disrupting the cell membranes of bacteria and viruses, preventing them from replicating and spreading. Some examples of monoterpenols with antibacterial properties include geraniol, linalool, and thymol. These compounds have been shown to be effective against common bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, as well as viruses such as the flu and herpes. In addition, monoterpenols have been found to be effective against antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria, making them an important tool in the fight against superbugs.
Monoterpenols also have immunomodulatory effects. They help to stimulate the immune system, making it more effective at fighting off infections. This is particularly important for people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or cancer. By boosting the immune system, monoterpenols can help to prevent infections and reduce the severity of symptoms.
Antifungals
In addition to their antibacterial and antiviral properties, monoterpenols also have antifungal properties. They can help to prevent the growth of fungi such as Candida albicans, which can cause infections in the mouth, skin, and genital area. Monoterpenols such as geraniol and citronellol have been found to be particularly effective against Candida albicans, making them a useful treatment option for people with fungal infections.
Harmonizing the Hormonal System
Monoterpenols have been found to have a harmonizing effect on the hormonal system. They can help to regulate the production and release of hormones such as cortisol, which is the body’s primary stress hormone. By regulating cortisol levels, monoterpenols can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can have a positive impact on both physical and mental health.
In addition, monoterpenols can help to regulate estrogen levels in women. They have been found to have an estrogenic effect, meaning that they can help to balance estrogen levels in women who are experiencing hormonal imbalances. This can be particularly useful for women going through menopause, who often experience a range of symptoms related to hormonal changes.
Regulators of the Cardiovascular System
Monoterpenols have also been found to have a regulatory effect on the cardiovascular system. They can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. This is because they have a vasodilator effect, meaning that they help to widen the blood vessels and improve blood flow. Monoterpenols such as linalool and geraniol have been found to be particularly effective at reducing blood pressure, making them a useful treatment option for people with hypertension.
Skin Regenerators, They Help Repair Skin Cells
Monoterpenols can also help to regenerate skin cells and promote healthy skin. They have anti-inflammatory properties, meaning that they can help to reduce redness and irritation. In addition, they can help to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Monoterpenols such as linalool and geraniol have been found to be particularly effective at promoting skin regeneration, making them a useful ingredient in skincare products.
Properties and Psycho-Emotional Benefits of Monoterpenols
Nervous System Regulators
Monoterpenols have a regulatory effect on the nervous system. They can help to reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality. This is because they have a sedative effect on the nervous system, meaning that they can help to calm the mind and promote feelings of relaxation. Monoterpenols such as linalool and geraniol have been found to be particularly effective at promoting relaxation, making them a useful tool for people with sleep disorders or anxiety.
Stimulants If Needed
While monoterpenols have a sedative effect on the nervous system, they can also act as stimulants if needed. They can help to improve focus and concentration, boost energy levels, and promote feelings of alertness. This is because they have a stimulating effect on the nervous system, meaning that they can help to increase brain activity and promote mental clarity. Monoterpenols such as limonene and pinene have been found to be particularly effective at promoting mental clarity and focus, making them a useful tool for people with ADHD or other attention disorders.
Harmonizing and Toning
In addition to their physiological benefits, monoterpenols also have psycho-emotional benefits. They can help to promote feelings of harmony and balance, and improve mood and emotional well-being. This is because they have a toning effect on the nervous system, meaning that they can help to balance the emotions and promote feelings of calm and serenity. Monoterpenols such as geraniol and linalool have been found to be particularly effective at promoting emotional well-being, making them a useful tool for people with mood disorders or anxiety.
Monoterpenols are a powerful component of essential oils that have a range of physiological and psycho-emotional benefits. They can help to regulate the immune system, cardiovascular system, hormonal system, and nervous system, making them a useful tool for a range of health conditions. In addition, they can help to promote emotional well-being and improve mood, making them a useful tool for people with mental health conditions. By incorporating monoterpenols into our daily lives, we can experience the many benefits of these powerful compounds.
The Essential Oils With The Most Content in Monoterpenols
Rosewood Aniba rosaeodora Essential Oil: 85-95% (especially linalool up to 90%)
Ho wood Cinnamomum camphora CT linalool Essential Oil: 90-95% especially linalool
Palmarosa Cymbopogon martinii Essential Oil: 80-85% (mainly geraniol)
Coriander x Coriandrum sativum Essential Oil: 60-80% (especially linalool)
Thyme linalool Thymus linalool Essential Oil: 75% (mainly linalool)
Rose geranium Pelargonium x asperum Essential Oil: 50-65% (mainly citronellol, geraniol)
Rose Rosa damascena Essential Oil: 65-75% (especially citronellol, geraniol) HE and not Absolute
Spike lavender Lavandula spica Essential Oil: 65-40% (mainly linalool)
Neroli Citrus auriantium ssp amara Essential Oil: 65-45% (especially linalool)
Thyme to thujanol thymus thujanol Essential Oil: 54-60% (especially thujanol-4)
Sweet basil with linalool Ocimum basilicum linalool Essential Oil: 40-60% (especially linalool)
Mint Bergamot Mentha citrata Essential Oil: 40-60% (especially linalool)
Peppermint Mentha piperita Essential Oil: 40-45% (mostly menthol)
Tea-tree Melaleuca alternifolia Essential Oil: 35-50% (especially terpinen-4-ol)
Marjoram Origanum majorana Essential Oil: 38-45% (mostly terpinen-4-ol)
Fine lavender Lavandula angustifolia Essential Oil: 30-40% (especially linalool)
Lavandin super Lavandula burnatii Essential Oil : 30-40% (especially linalool)
Wild marjoram Thymus mastichinaEssential Oil: 30-40% (especially linalool)
Petitgrain bitter orange Citrus aurantium amara var. bitter orange Essential Oil: 25-35% (especially linalool)
Noble bay Laurus nobilis Essential Oil: 15-20% (especially linalool)
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