neurotransmitters suggest inhibition of glutamate binding and GABA augmentation Linalool is the main component of lavender oil and inhibits glutamate binding in rats and augments gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) action. It is proposed that the scant receptors in the nose send chemical signals via olfactory nerve to the limbic region and therefore affects a person’s emotional responses, heart rate, blood pressure and breathing. Surveys carried out in the UK showed that 40.6% of cancer patients were using it.