Effects of flower volatiles from two liana species on spontaneous behavior of mice

Abstract

Flowering landscape plants release various fragrances which will have different effects on human body. In this study, mice were used as a biological model to investigate the effects of wisteria and rose (two popular climbing ornamentals) fragrances on spontaneous behavior. The purpose was to provide a useful reference for the management of urban vegetation. The volatiles released by Wisteria sinensis flowers were mainly linalool and 2-nonanone, and those of Rosa multiflora were geranyl acetate and phenylethyl acetate. Mouse behavior in the open field test suggested that volatiles enhanced appetite (briefly increasing the daily increment in body mass and food intake assimilation rate). In the tests, data were collected on the total distance covered by the mice, the distance covered in the central grid, and the time spent in the central grid. Taking the data collectively, a particular concentration of W. sinensis volatiles kept the mice in a stable state, whereas a high concentration of R. multiflora volatiles enhanced the exploratory and cognitive abilities of the mice. No negative effects of volatiles were found on mouse organs, showing that wisteria and rose plants could be used safely in urban areas. However, a high concentration of volatiles (> 8 Kg·M−3), as seen in the blooming period of wisteria, would cause slight discomfort. Therefore, in construction of urban vegetation, allocation proportions of tree species and places of plantation should be considered, in order to fully take advantage of health and ecological benefits of aromatic species and to create a more favorable urban environment.