Lavender essential oil

Lavender essential oil as it relates to COMT and Aversive Emotional Stimuli in Health report: COMT Gene: A Look at the Processing of Aversive Emotional Stimuli

Lavender Essential Oil and COMT

Lavender essential oil has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body, making it a popular choice for managing stress and anxiety. One of the ways in which lavender essential oil may exert its calming effects is through its interaction with the COMT gene.

The COMT gene encodes for the catechol-O-methyltransferase enzyme, which plays a key role in the breakdown of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. Variations in the COMT gene can affect the activity of this enzyme, leading to differences in how these neurotransmitters are metabolized in the brain.

Research has suggested that individuals with certain variations in the COMT gene may be more sensitive to aversive emotional stimuli, such as stressful or anxiety-provoking situations. This heightened sensitivity can contribute to increased feelings of anxiety and difficulty in managing stress.

Lavender Essential Oil and Aversive Emotional Stimuli

Studies have shown that the inhalation of lavender essential oil can help reduce the perception of aversive emotional stimuli and promote a sense of calm and relaxation. The aroma of lavender has been found to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, which may be particularly beneficial for individuals who are more sensitive to stressful or anxiety-provoking situations due to their COMT gene variations.

By inhaling lavender essential oil, individuals may experience a decrease in the perception of aversive emotional stimuli, leading to a reduction in feelings of anxiety and stress. This calming effect can help promote a sense of well-being and emotional balance, making lavender essential oil a valuable tool for managing stress and anxiety in daily life.

Supplements for COMT and Aversive Emotional Stimuli

Here are some dietary supplements related to the content in this report. Click the shopping cart to purchase the supplement from our partners.

  1. Curcumin (found in turmeric)

    Curcumin may inhibit COMT activity and increase dopamine levels in the prefrontal cortex. This could potentially enhance emotional processing and mood in those with the val/val genotype

  2. Rhodiola rosea

    This adaptogenic herb may inhibit COMT activity, particularly in people with the val/val genotype. It could help modulate dopamine levels and improve stress resilience.

  3. Omega-3 fatty acids

    Omega-3s may reduce inflammation and protect dopamine-producing neurons. This could support healthy emotional processing, especially in met allele carriers.

  4. Magnesium

    Magnesium supplementation has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression. It's proposed to positively influence neurotransmitter function, including dopamine signaling

  5. SAM-e

    SAM-e is involved in methylation processes including COMT methylation of catecholamines. Supplementing with SAM-e could potentially optimize COMT enzyme function

  6. Ginkgo biloba

    Ginkgo extracts contain terpenes that act as MAO inhibitors, allowing more dopamine and norepinephrine to remain circulating in the brain, which could benefit emotion regulation.

  7. Vitamin D

    Low vitamin D levels have been associated with depression. Optimizing vitamin D may support dopaminergic function and healthy mood/stress response.

  8. Lavender essential oil

    Lavender contains linalool which has anxiolytic effects. One study found lavender oil decreased anxiety symptoms more in met/met genotypes, possibly by increasing dopamine availability.

  9. Resveratrol

    Found in grapes, resveratrol has COMT-inhibiting effects similar to curcumin according to some research. It may boost dopamine signaling in the prefrontal cortex.

  10. Passionflower

    Traditionally used for anxiety, passionflower increases GABA activity in the brain. It may also inhibit MAO enzymes leading to higher dopamine and norepinephrine.

  11. Probiotics

    Emerging research shows gut-brain connections. Probiotics may reduce inflammation, support neurotransmitter precursors, and improve mood/stress response.

It is essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting any of these supplements. They can have side effects, and some may interact with medications or other supplements you're already taking.
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