Sedative Effects of the Essential Oil from Acorus gramineus upon Inhalation

The present study was designed to evaluate central inhibitory effects of an essential oil from Acori graminei Rhizoma (AGR), the dry rhizomes of Acorus gramineus Solander (Araceae) upon fragrance inhalation (aroma therapy). Preinhalation of an essential oil of AGR markedly delayed the appearance of pentylenetetrazole-induced convulsion. Furthermore, the inhalation of an essential oil of AGR impressively inhibited the activity of ${\gamma}$-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transaminase, a degradating enzyme for GABA as inhalation period is lengthened. (omitted)