Sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety compound essential oil, and preparation method and application thereof

Abstract

The present application relates to a kind of sleep-aiding anxiolytic compound essential oil and its preparation method and application, the compound essential oil includes the following weight parts of component: thyme oil 20-60 parts, fir oil 0-40 parts, bitter orange oil 0-40 parts, jasmine oil 0-40 parts and osmanthus oil 0-40 parts.Compared with prior art, the present application has good sleep-aiding and anxiolytic effect under the synergy of each component.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of sleep disorder treatment technology, and relates to a sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety compound essential oil, its preparation method and application. Background Technology

[0002] Anxiety disorder is a common mental disorder characterized by persistent and excessive worry and tension. Studies show that the prevalence of anxiety disorder in the global general population is as high as 15%, making it a relatively common mental illness. It can affect a person's mood, thinking, and behavior, and negatively impact daily life. Symptoms of anxiety disorder include, but are not limited to, several aspects:

[0003] (1) Physical symptoms: Patients with anxiety disorder experience physical discomfort such as palpitations, shortness of breath, headaches, and muscle tension.

[0004] (2) Psychological symptoms: Patients with anxiety disorders often feel tense, uneasy, fearful and insecure;

[0005] (3) Impaired social and professional functioning: Anxiety disorders may affect an individual's social and professional functioning. Patients may avoid building close relationships with others, have difficulty coping with work stress, and experience a decline in quality of life.

[0006] Anxiety disorders can have a variety of causes, including genetic factors, biochemical factors, environmental factors, and personal experiences. Treatment methods primarily include psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy can help identify the causes of anxiety and teach coping techniques, including deep breathing, relaxation techniques, exercise, and good sleep habits. Medication can reduce anxiety symptoms by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain, helping patients restore normal mood and function.

[0007] Common anti-anxiety medications include benzodiazepines These include drugs such as serotonin receptor agonists, β-blockers, etc., but these commonly used anti-anxiety drugs all have side effects and can cause patients to experience adverse reactions of varying degrees.

[0008] Aromatherapy is a natural therapy that uses aromatic substances to promote physical and mental well-being. It involves inhaling or contact with essential oils, utilizing their unique aromas and chemical components to produce therapeutic effects. Each essential oil has a unique aroma and chemical composition, offering different therapeutic benefits. Aromatherapy has a long history in traditional medicine, but its scientific basis continues to evolve. Research shows that the chemical components in essential oils can enter the body through inhalation or skin contact, affecting the nervous system, immune system, and mood, thereby producing therapeutic effects. Furthermore, some essential oils, when used concurrently with medications, can enhance drug absorption and efficacy, allowing for reduced medication dosages and achieving the desired therapeutic effect with fewer side effects.

[0009] Patent CN108635440A discloses a compound essential oil composition, its application, and a product for relieving stress. The compound essential oil composition comprises the following components in parts by volume: grapefruit oil 1-5; citrus oil 1-5; magnolia oil 1-4; geranium oil 0-5; cedarwood oil 0-2; sweet orange oil 0-8; lavender oil 0-3; lemon oil 0-5; rose oil 0-3; spearmint oil 0-1.5; clove bud oil 0-3; bitter orange blossom oil 0-3; jasmine oil 0-1.5; marjoram oil 0-2; Italian immortelle oil 0-1.5; and thyme oil 0-2. However, the essential oil components of this patent contain a high content of citrus essential oils. Some citrus essential oils, especially lemon oil, contain furanocoumarins, which are photosensitive compounds, meaning that the storage environment of the essential oils is highly demanding. Moreover, the strong aroma of citrus essential oils may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may find the aroma too stimulating and therefore not conducive to relaxation and sleep.

[0010] Patent CN116407591A discloses a sleep-aiding compound essential oil composition, essential oil microcapsules, and a method for preparing the essential oil microcapsules. The sleep-aiding compound essential oil composition comprises components in the following weight ratios: 34-40 parts lavender oil, 8-12 parts ylang-ylang oil, 8-12 parts Siberian fir oil, 8-12 parts jasmine flower oil, 3-8 parts Melaleuca alternifolia leaf oil, 3-8 parts rosemary leaf oil, 3-8 parts Nardostachys jatamansi root extract, 3-8 parts geranium flower oil, 3-8 parts rose flower oil, 3-8 parts bitter orange leaf oil, and 2-6 parts eucalyptus leaf oil. The weight ratio of lavender oil, ylang-ylang oil, Siberian fir oil, and jasmine flower oil is (17-20):(4-6):(4-6):(4-6). The essential oil microcapsules comprise the following components: the sleep-aiding compound essential oil composition, starch, and an emulsifier. However, the main component of the compound essential oil in this patent is lavender oil. The widespread use of lavender fragrance in daily chemical personal care products may make its scent too familiar, which could weaken its potential effect in treating sleep disorders. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The purpose of this invention is to overcome at least one defect of the prior art and provide a sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety compound essential oil, its preparation method and application. This invention has good sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety effects due to the synergistic effect of its components.

[0012] The objective of this invention can be achieved through the following technical solutions:

[0013] One of the technical solutions of the present invention is to provide a sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety compound essential oil, which comprises the following components in parts by weight:

[0014] 20-60 parts thyme oil, 0-40 parts fir oil, 0-40 parts bitter orange oil, 0-40 parts jasmine oil, and 0-40 parts osmanthus oil.

[0015] Furthermore, the compound essential oil comprises the following components in parts by weight:

[0016] 20-25 parts thyme oil, 15-20 parts fir oil, 15-20 parts bitter orange oil, 15-20 parts jasmine oil, and 15-20 parts osmanthus oil.

[0017] As a preferred technical solution, the compound essential oil comprises the following components in parts by weight:

[0018] 20 parts thyme oil, 20 parts fir oil, 20 parts bitter orange oil, 20 parts jasmine oil, and 20 parts osmanthus oil.

[0019] Furthermore, the compound essential oil comprises the following components in parts by weight:

[0020] 20-25 parts thyme oil, 15-20 parts fir oil, 15-20 parts jasmine oil, and 35-40 parts osmanthus oil.

[0021] As a preferred technical solution, the compound essential oil comprises the following components in parts by weight:

[0022] 20 parts thyme oil, 20 parts fir oil, 20 parts jasmine oil, and 40 parts osmanthus oil.

[0023] Furthermore, the compound essential oil comprises the following components in parts by weight:

[0024] 20-25 parts thyme oil, 35-40 parts jasmine oil, and 35-40 parts osmanthus oil.

[0025] As a preferred technical solution, the compound essential oil comprises the following components in parts by weight:

[0026] 20 parts thyme oil, 40 parts jasmine oil, and 40 parts osmanthus oil.

[0027] Furthermore, the compound essential oil comprises the following components in parts by weight:

[0028] 55-60 parts thyme oil, 20-25 parts jasmine oil, and 20-25 parts osmanthus oil.

[0029] As a preferred technical solution, the compound essential oil comprises the following components in parts by weight:

[0030] 60 parts thyme oil, 20 parts jasmine oil, and 20 parts osmanthus oil.

[0031] Furthermore, the compound essential oil comprises the following components in parts by weight:

[0032] 20-25 parts thyme oil, 35-40 parts fir oil, and 35-40 parts bitter orange oil.

[0033] As a preferred technical solution, the compound essential oil comprises the following components in parts by weight:

[0034] 20 parts thyme oil, 40 parts fir oil, and 40 parts bitter orange oil.

[0035] One of the technical solutions of the present invention is to provide a method for preparing the aforementioned sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety compound essential oil, the method comprising the following steps:

[0036] The components are mixed to obtain a sleep-aiding and anxiety-relieving compound essential oil.

[0037] One of the technical solutions of the present invention is to provide an application of the aforementioned sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety compound essential oil, wherein the compound essential oil is used to relieve emotional anxiety and improve sleep quality.

[0038] Furthermore, the method of applying the compound essential oil to relieve emotional anxiety includes the following steps:

[0039] Place the blended essential oil under the nose and let the subject smell the aroma emitted by the blended essential oil.

[0040] As a preferred technical solution, the smelling time is 1-5 minutes.

[0041] Furthermore, the method of applying the compound essential oil to improve sleep quality includes the following steps:

[0042] The partner places the blended essential oil by their bedside every night before going to sleep and inhales its aroma.

[0043] As a preferred technical solution, the sniffing time is 6-7 hours and the duration is 5-14 days.

[0044] The effects of each component in the above-mentioned formulation of this invention are as follows:

[0045] Thyme oil: For centuries, thyme has played a role in many ways: ancient Europeans wore thyme oil sachets to ward off plagues; it was used as incense in temples; it was added to bathwater for its invigorating effect; there are also records of it being used to make tea in ancient my country; research shows that carvacrol, the main active ingredient in thyme essential oil, exerts its anti-anxiety effect by participating in the regulation of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

[0046] Fir oil: In ancient civilizations, fir resin was used by inhalation to treat lung infections. Today, it is often added to daily chemical products as a fragrance enhancer and antibacterial agent. The anxiolytic effect of the main active ingredient β-pinene in fir oil is produced by regulating the interaction between postsynaptic serotonin (5-HT) levels and the serotonergic pathway.

[0047] Bitter orange oil: Bitter orange oil is widely used as a sedative, activator, and bactericide. Studies have shown that bitter orange essential oil exerts its anti-anxiety effect by regulating 5-HT receptors.

[0048] Jasmine oil: Jasmine is rich in flavonoids, and multiple studies have shown that flavonoids can exert an anti-anxiety effect by enhancing inhibitory GABAergic neurotransmission;

[0049] Osmanthus oil: Osmanthus is one of the ten traditional Chinese flowers. Studies have shown that the fragrance of osmanthus can relieve anxiety caused by discomfort during colonoscopy.

[0050] This invention integrates the therapeutic effects of various single essential oils on anxiety disorders, and recombines and formulates sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety single essential oils to more comprehensively soothe emotions and alleviate anxiety symptoms through multiple mechanisms of action.

[0051] There are many pathways and mechanisms that can lead to anxiety. These pathways and mechanisms interact and work together in the body to cause anxiety. Single essential oils have relatively simple components; they usually only work on one or a few pathways, resulting in limited anxiety relief. In contrast, compound essential oils are made from a variety of plant essential oils, making their components richer and more diverse. In compound essential oils, different components can interact and produce a synergistic effect. This synergistic effect can make the essential oils have a 1+1>2 effect, meaning that the effect of compound essential oils is better than the effect of using each essential oil alone. Based on the analysis of the antibacterial activity of cinnamon oil and oregano oil, Zhao et al. optimized the ratio and concentration of compound essential oils, and the results showed that compound essential oils exhibited superior antibacterial properties (Anjiu Zhao et al., 2023). Merve Kara's research also showed that compared with the individual application of rosemary and sweet marjoram essential oils, their mixtures showed enhanced antifungal activity at lower concentrations (Merve Kara, 2024).

[0052] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0053] (1) This invention uses compound essential oils, which have a more comprehensive effect and better effect than the previous single essential oils in relieving anxiety. It avoids the disadvantages of traditional sleep aids, such as many side effects and poor efficacy, and is conducive to promotion and use.

[0054] (2) This invention uses aromatherapy to target different mechanisms of anxiety and combines the concept of aromatherapy in traditional Chinese medicine to use a simple diffusion method to soothe and calm people with anxiety.

[0055] (3) While pursuing good sleep aid and anti-anxiety effects, this invention has a comfortable and pleasant aroma, which not only has good therapeutic effects, but can also be used for daily aromatherapy. Attached Figure Description

[0056] Figure 1 This is a Venn diagram showing the intersection of thyme oil and sleep disorders in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 2 This is a Venn diagram showing the intersection of osmanthus oil and sleep disorders in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 3 This is a Venn diagram showing the intersection of bitter orange oil and sleep disorders in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 4 This is a Venn diagram showing the intersection of fir oil and sleep disorders in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 5 This is a Venn diagram showing the intersection of jasmine oil and sleep disorders in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 6 This is a drug-compound-target-disease protein interaction network diagram in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 7 This is a network diagram of common target protein interactions in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 8 This is a visualization of the protein interaction network using Cytoscape software in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0064] Figure 9 This is a graph showing the difference in the total number of entries (TE) between the open and closed arms in animal model experiments in this embodiment of the invention;

[0065] Figure 10 This is a graph showing the difference in open arm entry times (OE) in animal model experiments according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0066] Figure 11 This is a graph showing the difference in open arm dwell time (OT) in animal model experiments in this embodiment of the invention;

[0067] Figure 12 This is a graph showing the difference in the number of closed arm entry (CE) in animal model experiments in this embodiment of the invention;

[0068] Figure 13 This is a graph showing the difference in closed arm dwell time (CT) in animal model experiments in this embodiment of the invention;

[0069] Figure 14 This is a graph showing the difference in the percentage of times animals entered the open arm (OE%) in animal model experiments according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 15 This is a graph showing the difference in the percentage of times an animal model entered the open arm (OT%) in the animal model experiments of this invention.

[0071] Figure 16 This is a graph showing the difference in the percentage of times the animal model entered the closed arm (CE%) in the animal model experiments of this invention.

[0072] Figure 17 This is a graph showing the difference in the percentage of closed arm dwell time (CT%) in animal model experiments in this invention embodiment;

[0073] Figure 18 This is a graph showing the rate of change of alpha waves in the electroencephalograms of volunteers before and after smelling the compound essential oil in this embodiment of the invention.

[0074] Figure 19 This is a graph showing the rate of change of β waves in the electroencephalograms of volunteers before and after smelling the compound essential oil in this embodiment of the invention.

[0075] Figure 20 This is a graph showing the average score change of volunteers' evaluation scale scores before and after smelling the compound essential oil in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0076] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to specific embodiments. These embodiments are based on the technical solution of the present invention and provide detailed implementation methods and specific operating procedures. However, the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0077] Unless otherwise specified, the equipment used in the following embodiments is conventional equipment in the art; unless otherwise specified, the reagents used are commercially available products or prepared by conventional methods in the art. In the following embodiments, unless otherwise described in detail, conventional experimental methods in the art can be used.

[0078] Thyme oil, fir oil, bitter orange oil, jasmine oil, and osmanthus oil were all purchased from Shanghai Zixin Biotechnology Co., Ltd.

[0079] Examples 1 to 5:

[0080] A sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety compound essential oil and its preparation method are described below:

[0081] Weigh each component according to the weight percentage, stir evenly, and then dispense into clean containers to obtain a sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety compound essential oil. The specific weight parts of the formulas in Examples 1 to 5 are shown in Table 1.

[0082] Table 1 shows the formulations of the compound essential oils in Examples 1 to 5.

[0083] Components Example 1(A) Example 2(B) Example 3(C) Example 4(D) Example 5(E) Thyme oil 20 20 20 60 20 fir oil 20 20 0 0 40 bitter orange oil 20 0 0 0 40 Jasmine oil 20 20 40 20 0 Osmanthus oil 20 40 40 20 0

[0084] The specific testing steps for the above-mentioned sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety compound essential oil in relieving emotional anxiety and improving sleep quality are as follows:

[0085] (1) Network pharmacology analysis

[0086] Essential oils were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The PubChem database (https: / / pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov / ) and the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) (https: / / tcmspw.com / tcmsp.php) were used. Disease targets were identified by searching for "sleep disorders" in the Genecards database (https: / / www.genecards.org / ) and the OMIM database (https: / / www.omim.org / ). Finally, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using Cytoscape 3.9.0 software to examine the intersection of essential oil components and disease targets.

[0087] After screening, the compound essential oils identified 19 active ingredients (221 predicted targets) in thyme oil, 8 in osmanthus oil (120 predicted targets), 22 in bitter orange oil (225 predicted targets), 16 in fir oil (142 predicted targets), and 36 in jasmine oil (325 predicted targets). After removing duplicates, a total of 472 targets were obtained.

[0088] A total of 3,100 sleep disorder targets were identified in the Gene Cards and OMIM databases.

[0089] Drug targets and disease targets were imported into the VEENY platform, and their intersection was calculated to obtain the intersection targets of thyme oil, osmanthus oil, bitter orange oil, fir oil, and jasmine oil with sleep disorders. (See [link to relevant documentation]). Figures 1 to 5 .

[0090] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, thyme oil has 128 overlapping target points with sleep disorders, osmanthus oil has 70 overlapping target points, bitter orange oil has 119 overlapping target points, fir oil has 85 overlapping target points, and jasmine oil has 184 overlapping target points. After blending these single essential oils and removing duplicates, a total of 250 overlapping target points were obtained.

[0091] Essential oils and their components, sleep disorder genes, and overlapping targets were imported into Cytoscape software to establish a drug-compound-target-disease protein interaction network. (See [link to documentation]). Figure 6 .

[0092] like Figure 6 As shown, the network demonstrates the use of compound essential oils to treat sleep disorders through multiple components and multiple targets.

[0093] 250 intersection target points were imported into the STRING database to construct a PPI network. (See...) Figure 7 .

[0094] The data was then imported into Cytoscape software for further visualization and analysis. Using the Centiscape plugin, the data was filtered based on criteria such as betweenness centrality, proximity centrality, and a degree value greater than the average. Ultimately, 59 core target points were obtained, sorted according to their degree values. The size and color of each node are proportional to its degree value. (See...) Figure 8 .

[0095] like Figure 8As shown, the top 5 targets in the network with the highest Degree values ​​are AKT1 (serine and threonine kinase AKT), ALB (albumin), CASP3 (Caspase-3), PPARG (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor), and EGFR (epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor for cell proliferation and signal transduction). These targets have high Degree values ​​and are closely related to other proteins. Blended essential oils exert their sleep-disorder-relieving effects by acting on these targets, suggesting that these are the most concentrated targets for the effects of blended essential oils in the body.

[0096] (2) Animal model experiments:

[0097] Experimental objective: To conduct animal experiments to investigate the efficacy of different types of anti-anxiety essential oils.

[0098] Experimental animals: SPF-grade male ICR mice, 6-8 weeks old, weighing 35-42g, 30 mice. The animal model experiments in this embodiment were conducted at the Animal Experiment Center of the School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

[0099] Basic experimental idea:

[0100] Grouping and administration: Mice were randomly divided into 6 groups of 5 mice each according to their body weight. These groups consisted of five experimental groups and one blank control group. The anxiety level of the mice was assessed using an elevated cross maze anxiety model after smelling the fragrance.

[0101] Aromatherapy Method: Essential oils A, B, C, D, and E from Examples 1 to 5 were prepared separately. 100 mL of distilled water was added to a diffuser, and 20 μL of essential oil was added dropwise to prepare the necessary concentration for mouse behavioral testing. Deionized water was used as a blank control group. Mice in the same group were placed in an aromatherapy chamber at fixed times each day. The essential oils were heated using an aroma diffuser to allow them to fully evaporate, and the inhalation time was 45 minutes. This process continued for 10 days. Mice had free access to food and water during the experiment. After each group of mice inhaled the aroma, the aroma diffuser was wiped with 75% ethanol to remove residual essential oil and avoid the influence of different essential oil compositions on the experimental results.

[0102] Behavioral Experiment: After the scenting period on day 10, the elevated plusmaze (EPM) test was conducted. Mice prefer dark environments and dislike open spaces. However, when faced with new objects, mice exhibit curiosity and explore, leading to a conflict between avoidance and exploration behaviors, which in turn generates anxiety. Mice were fed for 7 days prior to the experiment to allow them to become familiar with and adapt to their environment. During the formal experiment, mice were placed into the maze from the central plaza facing the open arms, ideally with their backs to the experimenter. One mouse was released at a time, and its activity was observed for 5 minutes immediately after release using a video monitoring system to record behavioral indicators. After each mouse was released, feces and urine were removed, and the experimental setup was wiped with 75% ethanol to avoid odor interference.

[0103] EPM observation indicators:

[0104] 1. Open-arm entries (OE): The number of times a mouse enters any open arm. The entry activity is considered complete when all four of the mouse's paws have entered the arm and one paw completely exits the arm.

[0105] 2. Close-arm entries (CE): The number of times a mouse enters any closed arm, defined as when all four of its paws are inside the arm.

[0106] 3. Open-arms time (OT): The time spent entering the open arm, in seconds.

[0107] 4. Close-arm dwell time (CT): The time spent entering the closed arm, in seconds.

[0108] The following calculations were performed based on the above indicators:

[0109] 5. Total number of entries into the open and closed arms (TE): OE+CE, representing the rat's locomotor activity.

[0110] 6. Percentage of times entering the open arm (OE%): OE / (OE+CE)×100%.

[0111] 7. Percentage of times entering the closed arm (CE%): i.e., CE / (OE+CE)×100%.

[0112] 8. Open arm dwell time percentage (OT%): i.e., OT / (OT+CT)×100%.

[0113] 9. Closed arm dwell time percentage (CT%): i.e., CT / (OT+CT)×100%.

[0114] The behavioral effects of essential oils A to E in Examples 1 to 5 on mice in an elevated cross maze model are shown in Tables 2 and 3.

[0115] Table 2. Analysis of observational indicators in mice in the elevated maze anxiety model of Examples 1 to 5.

[0116] TE OT OE CT CE blank 18.6±5.13b 25.65±13.73b 1.2±0.58b 234.69±8.68a 17.4±4.97a A 23.4±3.27ab 55.54±12.04ab 8.8±2.6b 164.12±25.04ab 14.6±2.11a B 20.4±2.86ab 32.47±7.14b 6±1.64b 212.81±19.72a 14.4±1.86a C 12.6±4.41b 19.79±10.59b 3.6±2.14b 244.2±26.4a 9±2.63a D 25.8±5.04ab 50.31±16.41b 10.8±3.28b 163.75±29.71ab 15±2.1a E 34.8±5.7a 94.01±12.93a 24.8±6.13a 129.13±25.21b 10±1.92a

[0117] Table 3 shows the percentages of each observed index in mice in the elevated maze anxiety model in Examples 1 to 5.

[0118] OT% OE% CT% CE% blank 9.34±4.77b 7.3±3.67c 90.66±4.77a 92.7±3.67a A 26.82±6.46ab 35.96±7.85b 73.18±6.46ab 64.04±7.85b B 13.94±3.51b 28.27±4.37bc 86.06±3.51a 71.73±4.37ab C 8.69±5.28b 26.85±9.02bc 91.31±5.28a 73.15±9.02ab D 25.64±8.87ab 37.28±6.34b 74.36±8.87ab 62.72±6.34b E 43.84±7.86a 67.14±7.33a 56.16±7.86b 32.86±7.33c

[0119] like Figures 9 to 17 As shown in Tables 2 and 3, anxiety-like symptoms in the elevated maze test were alleviated in mice after smelling the five essential oils in the examples. Specifically, regarding the percentage of time spent in the closed arm (CT%), the percentage of time spent in group E of Example 5 was the lowest (56.16±7.86%) after essential oil application. Except for group C in Example 3, the percentage of time spent in other groups was lower than the control group, but not significantly (p<0.05). The reduced time spent in the closed arm indicates that the mice were calm, curious about the unfamiliar environment, and exhibited increased exploration behavior in the non-protected area. Looking at the total number of entries (TE), open arm time (OT), open arm entry count (OE), percentage of open arm time spent (OT%), and percentage of open arm entry count (OE%), the activity level of mice in group E of Example 5 was significantly increased compared to the control group, and their activity level was better than other essential oil groups. The activity levels of the other essential oil groups were also generally increased compared to the control group.

[0120] In this invention, the compound essential oils all have varying degrees of alleviating effect on anxiety-like behaviors in mice. Among them, in Example 5, essential oil E (20wt% thyme oil, 40wt% fir oil and 40wt% bitter orange oil) showed the best therapeutic effect on various anxiety behaviors in mice in the elevated cross maze anxiety model.

[0121] (3) Electroencephalogram (EEG) tests of volunteers before and after smelling essential oils

[0122] Experimental objective: To observe the changes in the percentage of total power of β and α waves within the 1-30Hz range before and after 25 subjects inhaled essential oils using electroencephalography (EEG) tests, thereby determining the immediate effects of essential oils on the human brain.

[0123] Experimental principle: EEG classification is an artificial division based on different frequencies; the speed of waveform frequency will vary considerably under different conditions.

[0124] 1. Fast waves: These waves include beta waves and gamma waves. Beta waves have two frequency bands: β1 (14.0-20.0 Hz / s) and β2 (20.0-30.0 Hz / s), with an amplitude of 5-20 μV. They mainly appear in the central area when the subject is at rest. If the subject opens their eyes to see objects, hears sudden sounds or images, or thinks, beta waves also appear in other parts of the cortex. Therefore, the appearance of beta waves generally indicates excitation of the cerebral cortex.

[0125] 2. Medium-wave: This type of wave includes alpha waves, with a frequency of 8-13 Hz / s. It has two smaller frequency bands: alpha1 (8.0-9.8 Hz / s) and alpha2 (9.8-12.8 Hz / s), with an amplitude of 20-120 μV. In EEG testing, alpha waves are most prominently recorded in the occipital region of the brain. They appear when the subject is awake, quiet, and with eyes closed, exhibiting a spindle-shaped pattern of amplitude increasing and then decreasing. When the eyes are open, the subject is thinking, or receiving other stimuli, the alpha waves disappear, and other fast waves appear in their place; this phenomenon is called alpha wave blockade. When the subject returns to quietness and closes their eyes, the alpha waves reappear.

[0126] 3. Slow waves: These waves include delta waves and theta waves. Delta waves have a frequency of 0.5-3 Hz (less than 4 Hz / s) and an amplitude of 20-200 μV. Generally, an adult will not exhibit delta waves while awake. Delta waves appear in three situations: deep sleep, deep anesthesia or shock, and organic brain disorders. Theta waves refer to waves with a frequency of 4-7 Hz (less than 8 Hz / s) and an amplitude of 10-150 μV. They appear when a person feels drowsy or sleepy; therefore, theta waves are a manifestation of central nervous system inhibition.

[0127] Test method:

[0128] Subjects underwent an electroencephalogram (EEG) test before using the compound essential oil. Subjects were required to get sufficient sleep the night before the test. Before the test, subjects completed personal hygiene procedures, washed and cleaned their hair, and sat comfortably on the bed. The experimenter then placed a medical sleep electrode cap on the subject's brain for the test.

[0129] First, a blank test is conducted in a quiet environment, minimizing the need for strong stimuli to the participants. Without smelling any fragrance, participants focus their attention on a prepared computer wallpaper (pure white) or face a white wall for 3 minutes.

[0130] One minute later, the diffuser with essential oil added was handed to the subject. The subject placed the diffuser under their nose, ensuring they could smell the essential oil. This blank procedure was repeated for 3 minutes, and the brainwave data for the essential oil were obtained. After 3 minutes, the subject removed the diffuser and breathed freely for 1 minute to try to eliminate the essential oil odor from their nasal cavity.

[0131] Repeat the above steps until all the essential oils' EEG data are obtained. The experimenters then remove the electrode caps, the subjects wash their hair, and the experiment concludes.

[0132] like Figure 18As shown, the alpha waves (occipital region O1 and O2) were increased before and after smelling the essential oils. In Example 5, essential oil E had the highest increase at 4.01%, while essential oils B and A in Examples 2 and 1 followed closely behind, also reaching more than 2%. In Examples 3 and 4, essential oils C and D showed some increase, but both were below 2%.

[0133] like Figure 19 As shown, there were certain changes in the β wave (central areas C3 and C4) before and after smelling the essential oil. In Example 5, essential oil E decreased the most, by 2.20%, while essential oil A in Example 1 also decreased by 0.57%, while other essential oils showed some increase.

[0134] Based on the analysis of alpha and beta waves, the overall trend of change is basically consistent with the behavioral performance of mice in animal experiments. The EEG results show that although all essential oils in the alpha wave showed some improvement, in terms of beta waves, only essential oils E and A in Examples 5 and 1 showed some decrease after inhalation. Among them, only essential oil E in Example 5 showed a decrease of more than 2%. Therefore, it can be judged that essential oil E in Example 5 has the most significant sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety effect.

[0135] (4) Scores of volunteers' evaluation scale before and after smelling essential oils

[0136] Experimental objective: In animal experiments and human EEG experiments, essential oil E in Example 5 showed the most ideal effect. Essential oil E in Example 5 was selected as the essential oil product for subjective evaluation of the sleep-aiding effect on volunteers, and the effect of essential oil E in Example 5 on the human body was further evaluated.

[0137] Volunteer selection:

[0138] 1. Age between 18 and 60 years old, both men and women are welcome.

[0139] 2. Individuals who score 11 or higher on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) or 10 or higher on the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) and are confirmed to have anxiety.

[0140] 3. Individuals with a history of significant drug allergies are excluded.

[0141] 4. Those who have taken central nervous system medications within the past month are excluded.

[0142] 5. Pregnant women and breastfeeding women are excluded.

[0143] The basic idea of ​​the experiment is to use the PSQI to subjectively evaluate the sleep quality of the subjects and to evaluate the improvement of the subjects' sleep quality before and after smelling essential oil E in Example 5. When the score on this table decreases by ≥3 points, it is determined that the subjective sleep quality has improved.

[0144] Scent application method: After the PSQI and HAMA indicators meet the requirements in the first subjective filling, the essential oil E in Example 5 is compounded according to the above implementation plan. 4 / 5 of the volume of distilled water is added to the diffuser, and 2 drops of essential oil E in Example 5 are added. The aroma diffuser is turned on by the bedside every night before going to sleep to allow it to fully evaporate. The smelling time is 6 hours and this scenting process lasts for 7 days.

[0145] The effects of essential oil E on the subjective sleep quality of volunteers in Example 5 are shown in Tables 4 and 5.

[0146] Table 4 shows the Pittsburgh sleep quality index of volunteers before and after smelling essential oils in Example 5.

[0147] Volunteer ID Rating before smelling essential oils Rating after smelling the essential oil Decreased score 1 12 6 6 2 11 5 6 3 13 6 7 4 11 3 8 5 12 4 8 6 11 7 4 7 12 6 6 8 10 5 5 9 11 6 5 10 14 7 7 11 13 7 6 12 13 13 0 13 10 7 3 14 11 5 6 15 13 6 7 16 11 4 7 17 14 9 5 18* 9 4 5 19 12 7 5 20 11 5 6 21 12 7 5 22 11 5 6 23 11 6 5 24 12 5 7 25 12 6 6 26 13 6 7 27 11 6 5 28 12 5 7 29 12 6 6 30 14 9 5 31 11 5 6 32 13 6 7 33 12 8 4 34 13 5 8 35 11 5 6

[0148] 18* and 17 are a married couple. When 17 smelled the essential oil, they also smelled it together, so they gave their evaluations together.

[0149] Table 5. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Scores in Example 5

[0150] Average score before smelling Average score after smelling Average decrease in score 11.83 6.06 5.77

[0151] like Figure 20 As shown in Table 5, after using essential oil E as a sleep aid in Example 5 for one week, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index decreased to some extent, with an average decrease of 5.77 points, which is greater than the 3-point standard. Therefore, it can be determined that the subjective sleep quality has been improved.

[0152] The above description of the embodiments is provided to enable those skilled in the art to understand and use the invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made to these embodiments, and the general principles described herein can be applied to other embodiments without inventive effort. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and any improvements and modifications made by those skilled in the art based on the disclosure of the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention should be within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety compound essential oil, characterized in that, The compound essential oil is composed of the following components in parts by weight: 20-25 parts thyme oil, 35-40 parts fir oil, and 35-40 parts bitter orange oil.

2. The sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety compound essential oil according to claim 1, characterized in that, The compound essential oil is composed of the following components in parts by weight: 20 parts thyme oil, 40 parts fir oil, and 40 parts bitter orange oil.

3. The use of the sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety compound essential oil as described in claim 1 or 2 in the preparation of sleep-aiding and anti-anxiety aromatherapy products.

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