Linalool (Monoterpenol · Anxiolytic · Sedative · Anti-inflammatory)
| Compound | Linalool |
| Chemical class | Terpenoid — Monoterpenol (Acyclic) |
| CAS | 78-70-6 |
| Primary source | Cinnamomum camphora Ho wood, Lavandula angustifolia, coriander |
| Key applications | Anxiolytic, sedative, anti-inflammatory, analgesic |
| Claim strength | High (oral lavender oil RCTs) / Moderate (isolated linalool) |
| Typical form | Linalool 98% isolate (Ho wood); lavender essential oil constituent |
| Buy from Herbuno | Linalool 98% Powder (Ho Wood Extract) | Standardized Cinnamomum → |
Name origin: From Linaloe wood (Bursera delpechiana), one of the earliest commercial sources. Traditional use: Lavender has centuries of European use for anxiety, insomnia, and headache. Coriander seed (Dhania in Ayurveda) has traditional digestive and calming use and contains significant linalool. Research trajectory: Silexan — a patented oral lavender oil standardised to linalool — has multiple RCTs demonstrating anxiolytic effects non-inferior to lorazepam. Linalool identified as the primary active. Commercial source: Linalool 98% from Ho wood (Cinnamomum camphora ct. linalool) provides pharmaceutical-grade purity. See sourcing options below.
Evidence for Linalool Applications
Anxiolytic and generalised anxiety (Silexan RCTs): Multiple European human RCTs with Silexan (80 mg/day oral lavender oil, ~36 mg linalool) show significant reduction in Hamilton Anxiety Scale scores, non-inferior to lorazepam in one comparative RCT, and superior to placebo across multiple 6–10 week studies. Claim strength: High (for Silexan/lavender oil); Moderate (isolated linalool).
Sedative and sleep support: Linalool potentiates GABA-A receptor activity and reduces glutamatergic excitation, producing sedative effects in animal models and human inhalation studies. Complements melatonin and other sleep-support botanicals through a different CNS mechanism. Claim strength: Moderate.
Anti-inflammatory and analgesic: Linalool inhibits NF-κB, COX-2, and reduces prostaglandin synthesis. Topical linalool reduces neurogenic inflammation and demonstrates analgesic effects in acute and chronic pain animal models. Claim strength: Moderate.
Linalool 98% Powder (Ho Wood Extract) | Standardized Cinnamomum →
Browse Standardised Extract Powders →
Dosage & Formulator Specification
Oral anxiolytic (Silexan equivalent): 80 mg/day lavender essential oil (~32–36 mg linalool). For isolated linalool: 30–50 mg/day extrapolated from Silexan pharmacokinetics. Inhalation aromatherapy: 5–10% in diffuser blend. For supplement formulations referencing lavender RCT evidence, standardised lavender oil is more directly evidence-linked than isolated linalool. Isolated linalool 98% suits fragrance-free, allergy-sensitive formulations. Volatile — microencapsulation or cyclodextrin complexation recommended for oral dose forms.
Frequently Asked Questions — Linalool
Is linalool the same as lavender essential oil?
Linalool (25–45%) is the primary constituent alongside linalyl acetate (25–35%) and minor terpenes. Isolated linalool 98% lacks linalyl acetate and minor constituents that may contribute synergistically. Standardised lavender oil (Silexan-type) is more directly evidence-linked for anxiety; isolated linalool suits fragrance-free formulations.
Is linalool safe as a supplement ingredient given its fragrance use?
GRAS-approved in the US and EU as a food flavouring. Well-tolerated in Silexan clinical trials up to 10 weeks. Oxidised forms (linalool hydroperoxides) can sensitise skin — relevant for topical formulations with extended air exposure. Standard pregnancy advisory applies.
Can linalool be combined with CBD?
Yes. Linalool co-occurs naturally in cannabis/hemp and is discussed in entourage effect contexts. Linalool + CBD is rationally positioned for anxiety and sleep with complementary mechanisms (GABA-A from linalool, CB1/5-HT1A from CBD). No dedicated human RCT has studied this specific combination.
What is Ho wood as a linalool source?
Ho wood (Cinnamomum camphora chemotype linalool) produces bark oil with 80–98% linalool — the primary industrial source for isolated linalool. Distinct from the camphor chemotype of the same species. A sustainable commercial alternative to CITES-protected rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora).
Related compounds: Limonene, Menthol, Borneol, Terpinen-4-ol
Claim-strength scale – High = multiple human RCTs; Moderate = limited trials or strong preclinical convergence; Emerging = early-stage lab or animal data.
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