Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Effects of Jasmine

Jasmine essential oil, derived from the flowers of Jasminum sambac, has long been cherished for its aromatic qualities and therapeutic benefits. Recent research has highlighted its potential neuroprotective effects, offering promising implications for the management of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia. Here, we distill the key findings from the comprehensive review "Neuroprotective and Anti-Aging Potentials of Essential Oils from Aromatic and Medicinal Plants" by Muhammad Ayaz and colleagues.*

Chemical Composition and Mechanisms

Jasmine essential oil contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including linalool, benzyl acetate, and benzyl benzoate. These compounds contribute to the oil's therapeutic properties, particularly its neuroprotective effects. Jasmine oil works in several ways, including as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and by preventing cell death.**

Neuroprotective Actions in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease is characterized by by harmful protein plaques, nerve cell tangles, oxidative stress, and loss of certain brain functions. Essential oils, including jasmine, have shown potential in addressing these pathological features. Jasmine oil's neuroprotective effects are attributed to its ability to:

• Inhibit Amyloid-β Aggregation: Jasmine oil components have been found to interfere with the aggregation of Aβ peptides, thereby reducing plaque formation, slowing down the progression of AD.

• Antioxidant Activity: Jasmine oil exhibits significant antioxidant properties, neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. This activity protects neurons from oxidative damage, a major contributor to neurodegeneration.

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Jasmine oil reduces inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulating inflammatory pathways. Inflammation plays a major role in AD.

• Cholinesterase Inhibition: Jasmine oil has shown inhibitory effects on the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE), improving brain function and memory.

Effects on Cognitive Function and Memory

Studies show that inhaling jasmine oil can improve brain performance, increase attention, and make people more alert. These benefits are partly due to the oil's effect on neurotransmitter systems.

Clinical and Experimental Studies

Research has shown that jasmine oil can improve brain function in animal models of Alzheimer's and dementia. Human studies also suggest that jasmine oil aromatherapy can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance brain function in dementia patients.

Broader Neuroprotective Potential

Beyond Alzheimer's, jasmine essential oil may help with other brain disorders like anxiety, depression, and epilepsy. It calms the mind by affecting certain brain chemicals and helps prevent seizures by influencing ion channels and neurotransmitter release.

Jasmine essential oil represents a promising agent for managing neurodegenerative diseases. Its ability to modulate multiple pathological pathways, as well as its safety, make it a valuable addition to the therapeutic arsenal against neurological disorders. Further research and clinical trials are needed to fully understand the scope of its therapeutic potential.

The comprehensive review by Ayaz et al. highlights the significance of essential oils in brain health, highlighting jasmine oil's potential as an effective natural remedy for enhancing cognitive function and protecting against neurodegenerative diseases.