He Effect of Essential Oil of Hinoki Cypress on EEG and Authonomic Responses, Poster Board #078

Total 20 experimenters (9 males, 11 females) were selected as the target in order to evaluate the effect of the aroma of natural essential oil extracted from hinoki cypress with steam distillation method on EEG (central nerves) and autonomic nerves (HRV). AFA (Absolute Fast Alpha Power Spectrum) and RFA (Relative Fast Alpha Power Spectrum), so called upper alpha that makes you comfortable and focused, had significantly increased after taking aroma of essential oil of hinoki cypress compared to unprocessed state before smelling aroma. RB (Relative Beta Power Spectrum), which is produced when one is nervous, awaken, and focused, has significantly decreased and RLB (Relative Low Beta Power Spectrum) that can increase attentiveness as taking precautions against surroundings has significantly increased. The sympathetic system of autonomic nerves (HRV), which is activated under an awaken and stressed situation, has significantly decreased and showed a tendency of corresponding with the above EEG. Thus, it is judged the essential oil aroma of hinoki cypress is helpful in relaxing stresses and leading pleasure in life by giving easement and relaxation effect to central and autonomic nervous system.