Though it is best known as a chemical compound in the spirit absinthe, it is unlikely to be responsible for absinthe's alleged stimulant and psychoactive effects due to the small quantities present.[5][6][7]
Thujone acts on the GABAA receptor as an antagonist. As a competitive antagonist of GABAA receptor, thujone alone is considered to be convulsant,[8] though by interfering with the inhibitory transmitter GABA, it may convey stimulating, mood-elevating effects at low doses.[citation needed] It is also found in perfumery as a component of several essential oils.[citation needed]
In addition to the naturally occurring (−)-α-thujone and (+)-β-thujone, two other forms are possible: (+)-α-thujone and (−)-β-thujone. In 2016, they were found in nature as well,[9] in Salvia officinalis.
^Williams, Jack D.; Yazarians, Jessica A.; Almeyda, Chelcie C.; Anderson, Kristin A.; Boyce, Gregory R. (23 May 2016). "Detection of the Previously Unobserved Stereoisomers of Thujone in the Essential Oil and Consumable Products of Sage (Salvia officinalis L.) Using Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction–Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry". Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 64 (21): 4319–4326. Bibcode:2016JAFC...64.4319W. doi:10.1021/acs.jafc.6b01065. PMID27181395.