[Thujone]

Med Monatsschr Pharm. 2007 Sep;30(9):322-6.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Thujone is an ingredient of essential oils of different herbs and causes exciting effects in the central nervous system. Absinthe lkiquor with thujone was forbidden in most European countries because it was taken in abuse. Up to now there have been a lot of theories about the mechanism of the pharmacological effect on the central nervous system. New researches verify an interaction of thujone with GABA-receptors. Within the process of adapting the EU-law the absinthe liquor is allows again and is not classified as dangerous when taken as directed, as the content of thujone should not exceed the particular limits depending on content of alcohol in the liquor.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acids / metabolism
  • Bicyclic Monoterpenes
  • Biogenic Amines / metabolism
  • Central Nervous System / drug effects*
  • History, 19th Century
  • Humans
  • Monoterpenes / history
  • Monoterpenes / pharmacology*
  • Receptors, GABA / drug effects
  • Substance-Related Disorders / history

Substances

  • Amino Acids
  • Bicyclic Monoterpenes
  • Biogenic Amines
  • Monoterpenes
  • Receptors, GABA
  • beta-thujone