Chapter 7: Aromatherapy: A Novel Approach to Schizophrenia Treatment
-
Published:06 Dec 2024
-
Special Collection: 2024 eBook CollectionSeries: Drug Discovery Series
E. Merkulova, in Drug Discovery for Schizophrenia
Download citation file:
This chapter provides an overview of the current understanding of aromatherapy, its application to neurodegenerative diseases and schizophrenia, and the observed effects. It further explores the relationship between aromatherapy and neurobiology, including the structural features of olfactory receptors, signal transmission, and distribution in the brain. The chapter transitions into neuroanatomy, the functioning of the human brain, the connection between the limbic system and olfactometry, and the assessment of olfactory functions in schizophrenia. Olfactory functions in schizophrenia are discussed, comparing the human brain to rodent brains, and describing the challenges of human research. Areas of the brain that are not yet fully understood but are presumed to be involved are also examined, along with the methods utilized for research (EEG, PET, fMRI), genetic engineering, swabs, and psychometric questionnaires.