Volatile Essential Oils from Different Tree Species Influence Scent Impression and Physiological Response

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Chemistry
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Japan faces challenges with underutilized tree residues.
• Tree species exhibit variations in volatile essential oil composition and biological activities.
• The impact of these variations on human sensory perception and functionality is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of essential oils from various tree species on human subjective and physiological responses.
• To explore the relationship between volatile profiles, scent preferences, and physiological outcomes.
• To assess the potential of utilizing tree residues for health benefits.

Main Methods:

• Essential oils were extracted from nine different tree species.
• Subjective scent assessments and evaluations of individual preferences were conducted.
• Autonomic nervous activity was measured to assess physiological responses.
• Volatile profiles were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

Main Results:

• Significant differences in volatile essential oil composition were observed among the tree species.
• These compositional differences correlated with variations in scent evaluations and user preferences.
• Scent preferences were found to potentially influence physiological responses, including autonomic nervous activity.

Conclusions:

• Volatile essential oils from different tree species possess distinct characteristics.
• Scent preferences play a role in modulating physiological responses.
• Effective utilization of tree resources through their essential oils may offer benefits for human health and well-being.