thujone

Thujone ( (listen)) is a ketone and a monoterpene that occurs naturally in two diastereomeric (epimeric) forms: (−)-α-thujone and (+)-β-thujone. It has an odor like that of menthol, which is found in mint.

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. Thujone acts on GABA as an antagonist (opposite to the effects of alcohol). As a competitive antagonist ...