Impact of Half an Hour Inhalation of Lemongrass Oil on Audio Visual Reaction Time: A Quasi-experimental Study

Abstract

Introduction: Lemongrass oil has become a significant focus in aromatherapy research due to its psychomodulatory effects, which are believed to act through the limbic system- a critical region for emotional control and memory. Research indicates that lemongrass oil can effectively lower anxiety, improve mood and enhance cognitive performance. However, the specific mechanisms by which lemongrass oil influences neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission remain unclear. Aim: To explore Auditory Reaction Time (ART) and Visual Reaction Time (VRT) to gain a better understanding of the neurophysiological effects of lemongrass oil and its potential therapeutic uses following 30 minutes of inhalation of lemongrass oil. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 30 healthy volunteers after obtaining clearance from the ethics committee and informed consent from the participants. The audio visual reaction times were recorded twice for each subject, before and after the intervention- i.e., 30 minutes of inhalation of lemongrass oil using an aroma lamp. The data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0, and a paired t-test was applied. Results: The present study showed a significant decrease in both ART and VRT (p-value=0.001 and 0.02, respectively) after 30 minutes of inhalation of lemongrass oil. The pre-exposure values of ART (1.01±0.46 msec) decreased to 0.79±0.29 msec, while VRT (0.70±0.29 msec) decreased to 0.63±0.26 msec. Conclusion: The shortened ART and VRT indicate the stimulatory effect of inhaling lemongrass oil on central neurons, especially in the limbic system, through the activation of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors. Hence, this results in increased attention and alertness in the brain.

Keywords

• complementary therapy
• mind body therapy
• phytotherapy
• psychophysiology
• reaction time