World Brain Congress

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease pathetically affecting the quality of life of the individual struck by it, especially the geriatric population. Pathologically characterized by A-beta and tau depositions, the AD has a profound functional deficit of the “sense of smell” which remain unnoticed and could possibly be an effective target to diminish the dementia symptoms associated. Lavender oil (LO) is a rich source of linalool and is found to be a potent calming remedy in humans and an effective neuroprotective. Inhalation of LO by an Amyloid beta1-42 ((Aβ) Intracerebroventricular) injected female C57BL/6 mice could significantly reduce the Aβ induced primary olfactory dysfunction followed by memory deficits measured through behavioral studies. Levels of Serotonin, GABA and glutamate neurotransmitters in the olfactory bulb and hippocampus along with acetylcholinesterase levels were proportional to the animal’s behavioral response and provided basic mechanistic support of LO in the enhancement of cognitive domain. Aromatherapy is considered as one of the best alternative solutions to numerous health problems especially those related to brain and our study contributes significant evidence to consider them as an effective replacement to better the disease without affecting the patient’s daily life. Further combinatorial studies could also position them as a viable adjunct along with the conventional treatment routines prescribed for the AD sufferers.