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Farnesol

Preliminary
Acyclic sesquiterpene alcohol

Mechanism of Action

Farnesol acts as a positive allosteric modulator of GABA-A receptors, enhancing chloride ion conductance and producing inhibitory neurotransmission at sites distinct from but overlapping with neurosteroid binding domains. It also activates adenosine A1 receptors in limbic brain regions, reducing excitatory neurotransmission and contributing to anxiolytic and mild sedative effects. Peripheral vasodilatory activity through direct smooth muscle relaxation via cyclic AMP elevation contributes to the diaphoretic and mild antihypertensive profile of the whole flower.

Research Notes

Linden / Lime BlossomWestern

Farnesol's GABA-A modulatory activity has been demonstrated in radioligand binding studies and patch-clamp electrophysiology using Xenopus oocyte expression systems expressing human GABA-A receptor subunit combinations. Animal models (elevated plus-maze, open field test, thiopental sleep test) demonstrate anxiolytic and sedation-potentiating activity of farnesol and linden flower extracts at doses achievable with standard tea preparations. Human clinical evidence is limited to a small number of observational studies and one randomised pilot trial showing reduced self-reported anxiety with linden preparation.

Found In 1 Herb

Linden / Lime Blossom

Linden / Lime Blossom

Western

3D Molecular Structure

Acyclic sesquiterpene alcohol
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Farnesol

Acyclic sesquiterpene alcoholAromatic plant metabolites with anti-inflammatory properties

Representative pattern: C₁₀H₁₆O

Atoms
Carbon
Oxygen
Hydrogen

Live Research

Open on PubMed

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.