Abstract Title: The Effect of Aromatherapy on Sleep and Quality of Life in Menopausal Women with Sleeping Problems: A Non-Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Abstract Source: Complement Med Res. 2020 Jun 9:1-10. Epub 2020 Jun 9. PMID: 32516765 Abstract Author(s): Meryem Gürler, Aynur Kızılırmak, Mürüvvet Baser Article Affiliation: Meryem Gürler Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Menopause is the termination of menstruation and fertility. Women commonly experience sleeping problems during the menopausal period. Aromatherapy is among the complementary therapies used to remedy sleeping problems. METHODS: This study aims to investigate the effects of lavender oil on sleep and quality of life of menopausal women through steam inhalation. This study was quasi-experimental with pre-test/post-test placebo control groups. It was conducted with 57 women, 27 of whom were subject to aromatherapy and 30 to a placebo. Data were collected using the Questionnaire Form, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL). RESULTS: For the intervention group, the PSQI median scores after the administration of aromatherapy were found to be significantly lower than those before the administration (p<0.001) and those of the placebo group (p<0.001). Similarly, for the intervention group, the total median MENQOL scores after the administration of the aromatherapy were found to be significantly lower than the scores prior to the administration (p<0.001) as well as the scores of the placebo group (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: It was found that aromatherapy involving lavender-scented steam inhalation increased sleep quality and quality of life in women with sleep deprivation problems during menopause. Article Published Date : Jun 08, 2020

Abstract Title: Inhaled Lavandula angustifolia essential oil enhances extinction learning and inhibits memory updating in mice submitted to the contextual fear conditioning. Abstract Source: J Ethnopharmacol. 2020 Jun 7:113048. Epub 2020 Jun 7. PMID: 32525067 Abstract Author(s): Fabiana Aparecida Manganiello Terra, Nelson Francisco Correa-Netto, Márcia Yuriko Masukawa, André Ruzzi, Alessandra Linardi, Jair Guilherme Santos-Junior Article Affiliation: Fabiana Aparecida Manganiello Terra Abstract: ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil (EO) has a long history of use in emotional illness, including anxiety disorders. Cognitive mechanisms of learning and memory play a pivotal role in the etiology and maintenance of anxiety since exposure to cues related to aversive situations induces high arousal and anticipatory anxiety. Memory become labile after its reactivation and can be modulated by reconsolidation or extinction. Inhibition of memory reconsolidation or facilitation of memory extinction may be effective in preventing or minimizing the effect of contextual cues on anticipatory anxiety. AIM OF THE STUDY: We investigated the effect of Lavandula angustifolia EO in the memory updating of conditioned contextual fear. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adult male C57Bl6 mice were submitted to fear conditioning. Two days after conditioning the mice underwent a reactivation session in a hybrid context and were then immediately exposed to vaporized water or essential oil at concentrations of 1%, 2.5% or 5% for 3 h. Two days later, the mice were tested in the original or an altered context and their freezing behavior was measured. In addition, mice were subjected to a fear memory recovery protocol followed by a reinstatement session. RESULTS: In the contextual fear test, 1% essential oil, but not 2.5% or 5%, reduced the freezing behavior response, whereas after a reinstatement session, exposure to 1% essential oil increased the freezing behavior response. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that Lavandula angustifolia essential oil enhances memory extinction and, consequently, inhibits memory updating. Article Published Date : Jun 06, 2020

Abstract Title: The effect of inhalation aromatherapy with damask rose essence on pain intensity and anxiety in burned patients: A single-blind randomized clinical trial. Abstract Source: Burns. 2020 May 19. Epub 2020 May 19. PMID: 32507535 Abstract Author(s): Narges Sadeghi, Azim Azizi, Shadi Asgari, Younes Mohammadi Article Affiliation: Narges Sadeghi Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Pain and anxiety are a major problem of burn patients. Despite the use of different medications, patients still suffer from these two problems. Aromatherapy along with medication may help in alleviating these symptoms. This study aimed to investigate the effect of inhalation aromatherapy with damask rose essence on pain and anxiety in burn patients. METHODS: This three group clinical trial was conducted on 120 patients with burns less than 30% TBSA. The patients were randomly allocated into three groups, aromatherapy damask rose essence, placebo, and control. The pain intensity was assessed using visual analogue scale prior to intervention, immediately before, and 15 min after dressing. Anxiety was measured using Spielberger Inventory at before intervention and 15 min after dressing, also the prolonged effect of intervention on pain was assessed by number of the analgesics drugs received for four hours after dressing change. The intervention included inhalation of 6 drops of 40% damask rose essential oil in the damask group, and six drops of distilled water in placebo group one hour before dressing change. The control group received no intervention. RESULTS: Baseline state-trait anxiety and pain intensity were similar in these three groups (p>0.05). We found a significant reduction in pain intensity immediately before and after dressing and state anxiety after dressing in the damask group compared to the placebo and control groups (p<0.001). However, we found no significant difference between the placebo and control groups in terms of these variables at these times (p>0.05). Also, we found no significant difference among three groups in frequency of analgesics drugs and trait anxiety after intervention (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Inhaled aromatherapy with Damask rose essence reduces subjective pain intensity and state anxiety in burned patients. Therefore, it is recommended considering use of damask rose essence, as an easy and affordable method along with other treatments. Article Published Date : May 18, 2020

Abstract Title: Exposure to Odors Increases Pain Threshold in Chronic Low Back Pain Patients. Abstract Source: Pain Med. 2020 Apr 14. Epub 2020 Apr 14. PMID: 32289824 Abstract Author(s): Gudrun Gossrau, Daniel Baum, Thea Koch, Rainer Sabatowski, Thomas Hummel, Antje Haehner Article Affiliation: Gudrun Gossrau Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Structured exposure to odors is an acknowledged therapy in patients with smell loss but has also been shown to be effective in depression. The latter might rely on connections between olfactory and emotional structures, suggesting possible effects of a similar approach in pain patients. Based on neuroanatomy, there are several interfaces between the"pain network"and olfactory system, such as the limbic system, hypothalamus, and mediodorsal thalamus. We aimed to investigate whether structured exposure to odors may impact perceived pain in patients with chronic low back pain. DESIGN: Randomized controlled parallel-group design. Subjects were tested on two occasions, at baseline and after four weeks. SETTING: Ambulatory. SUBJECTS: Forty-two patients with chronic low back pain. METHODS: For all patients, olfactory function (using the"Sniffin'Sticks"test kit), detection, and pain thresholds for cutaneous electrical stimuli (applied to the forearm) were tested at baseline and after four weeks. Twenty-eight patients exposed themselves to four odors (rose, vanilla, chocolate, peach) every two hours over a period of four weeks (training group). Control patients (N = 14) underwent no such"olfactory training"(nontraining group). RESULTS: Pain thresholds were significantly increased in patients who performed olfactory training compared with patients who did not train with odors. Detection thresholds and olfactory function remained unchanged. CONCLUSIONS: The present results indicate that regular exposure to odors increases pain thresholds in patients with chronic back pain and could be useful for general pain control in these patients. Furthermore, olfactory training in chronic pain patients might help to reduce chronification of pain by desensitization. Article Published Date : Apr 13, 2020

Abstract Title: Effect of chamomile oil on cesarean section pain in primiparous women: a randomized clinical trial. Abstract Source: Curr Clin Pharmacol. 2020 Mar 31. Epub 2020 Mar 31. PMID: 32228427 Abstract Author(s): Roghayeh Zardosht, Ameneh Basir, Amirhossein Sahebkar, Seyed Ahmad Emami Article Affiliation: Roghayeh Zardosht Abstract: BACKGROUND: Pain after cesarean section can turn the pleasant event of childbirth into an unpleasant experience for the mother. Pain relief through non-pharmaceutical methods, such as aromatherapy, could potentially be a useful intervention. In this study, the analgesic effect of chamomile oil was studied. PURPOSE: The current research was conducted to study the effect of chamomile oil on cesarean section pain in primiparous women. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a randomized double blind clinical trial wherein 128 primiparous pregnant women (who willingly selected cesarean section) took part. In the aromatherapy group, the subjects inhaled one drop of 5% chamomile oil, and in the control group the subjects inhaled one placebo drop. In both groups the subjects inhaled for 15-20 minutes at a distance of 5 cm from the nose at 4, 8, and 12 hours after surgery, and pain intensity was measured before and after half an hour after inhalation using the visual analog scale (VAS). For data analysis, the software SPSS (version 25) and descriptive statistics (frequency, frequency percentage, mean, and standard deviation) were used. In order to determine the significance, inferential statistics (Mann-Whitney, Wilcoxon, independent t-test, and Chi-square) were used. FINDINGS: Data indicated that the intervention and placebo groups were homogeneous in terms of demographic variables. The average weights and heights of women in the intervention group were 86/5± 5/9 and 163/7 ±5/1, respectively. Corresponding values women in the control group were 84/5± 5/7 kg and 163/4± 5/8 cm. The finding of the current research indicates that the intervention and placebo groups showed no significant statistical difference in terms of baseline pain before intervention (p=0.08), while the difference between the two groups was significant in terms of pain 4, 8, and 12 hours after intervention (p<0.01). Therefore, inhalation of chamomile oil reduced pain intensity significantly compared to post-intervention. CONCLUSION: According to the results of the present study, inhalation of chamomile oil following caesarean section in primiparous women reduced pain and also the need for analgesics. Therefore, the use of aromatherapy with chamomile oil as a simple way without any side effects for the reduction of pain in mothers after cesarean section is recommended. Article Published Date : Mar 31, 2020

Abstract Title: [Effect of Aromatherapy on Menopausal Symptoms, Heart Rate Variability, and Sleep Quality in Women]. Abstract Source: Hu Li Za Zhi. 2020 Feb ;67(1):44-54. PMID: 31960396 Abstract Author(s): Jen Tsai, Yu-Chu Chung, Fang-Pey Chen, Mei-Ling Yeh Article Affiliation: Jen Tsai Abstract: BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that aromatherapy improve health problems related to anxiety, depression, heart rate variability (HRV), and sleep. However, the effect of aromatherapy in women who suffer from menopausal syndrome and its specific effects on HRV and sleep quality are unknown. PURPOSE: This study designed an aromatherapy intervention and evaluated its effect on menopausal syndrome, HRV, and sleep quality in women. METHODS: This double-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted at a medical center hospital. A total of 84 participants who met the study criteria were randomly assigned using permuted block randomization. The experimental group received a 20-min inhalation of essential oil and the control group received a 20-min inhalation of sweet almond oil every night for 4 weeks. Posttest data was collected at 2 weeks after completion of the intervention. Data were collected using the Green Menopausal Symptom Scale, HRV device, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. RESULTS: After adjusting for age, the results of the generalized estimation equations (GEE) showed that all outcomes were significantly different in both the experimental group and the control group (p<.05) for the interaction effect of group and time, and that the outcome of sleep quality on the 2nd week in the control group was not significantly different (p<.066). CONCLUSIONS / IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: This study supports that the 4-week aromatherapy intervention improves menopausal symptoms, the activity of autonomic nervous systems, and sleep quality in women with no adverse side effects. In the future, this intervention may be applied in outpatient departments to promote the health of menopausal women. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 2020

Abstract Title: Effects of Aromatherapy with Lavender and Peppermint Essential Oils on the Sleep Quality of Cancer Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2020 ;2020:7480204. Epub 2020 Mar 25. PMID: 32308715 Abstract Author(s): Sahar Hamzeh, Roya Safari-Faramani, Alireza Khatony Article Affiliation: Sahar Hamzeh Abstract: One of the problems of cancer patients is sleep disorder. Given the absence of studies on comparing the effect of inhalation aromatherapy with lavender and peppermint on the sleep quality of the cancer patients, this study was performed to compare the effect of inhalation aromatherapy with lavender and peppermint essential oils on the sleep quality of cancer patients. For this purpose, 120 patients were randomly allocated to three groups of lavender, peppermint, and control. The intervention groups received three drops of the essential oil for 7 days. In the control group, aromatic distilled water was used instead. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory (PSQI) was used. Before the intervention, no significant difference was observed between the mean PSQI scores of three groups, while the difference was statistically significant after the intervention. The mean PSQI scores were lower in lavender and peppermint groups than in the control group. Aromatherapy can improve the sleep quality of cancer patients. To confirm the findings, more studies should be done. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2020

Abstract Title: The effect of aromatherapy massage with lavender and chamomile oil on anxiety and sleep quality of patients with burns. Abstract Source: Burns. 2020 02 ;46(1):164-171. Epub 2019 Dec 16. PMID: 31859096 Abstract Author(s): Forough Rafii, Farzaneh Ameri, Hamid Haghani, Ali Ghobadi Article Affiliation: Forough Rafii Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Regarding the importance of anxiety management and improvement of the quality of sleep in patients with burn injuries, this study aimed to determine the effect of aromatherapy massage (using aromatic oils of lavender and chamomile) on the anxiety and sleep quality of the patients with burn injuries. METHOD: In a quasi-experimental study, 105 patients with burns were recruited by convenience sampling method and then assigned into three groups (control, placebo massage, and combined aromatic oil massage). The study intervention was performed 20min before bedtime in three sessions, within a week. The control group was only under daily routine care. The study data were collected using the Persian version of Spielberg's anxiety scale and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests were used to analyze the data in SPSS version 20. RESULTS: The results showed a significant difference among the three groups in terms of anxiety score (P<0.001) and in terms of sleep quality after the intervention (P=0.027). CONCLUSION: Since the aromatherapy massage as a non-pharmacological and simple method can improve the anxiety and quality of sleep in patients with burns, it is suggested that nurses and burn medical care team apply it to reduce burn patients' anxiety and promote their sleep quality. Applying massage alone also reduces anxiety in burn survivors. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2019

Abstract Title: Compare the effect of aromatherapy using lavender and Damask rose essential oils on the level of anxiety and severity of pain following C-section: A double-blinded randomized clinical trial. Abstract Source: J Complement Integr Med. 2019 Nov 15. Epub 2019 Nov 15. PMID: 31730539 Abstract Author(s): Ali Abbasijahromi, Hamed Hojati, Saeid Nikooei, Hossein Kargar Jahromi, Hamid Reza Dowlatkhah, Vahid Zarean, Mehran Farzaneh, Arefeh Kalavani Article Affiliation: Ali Abbasijahromi Abstract: Background Anxiety is the most common psychological reaction in women during labor. Similar to numerous other surgeries, postoperative pain is also reported following cesarean section (C-section). According to the (Gate) Control Theory, there is a relationship between pain and psychological problems such as anxiety. Accordingly, the present study aimed to compare the effect of aromatherapy using lavender and Damask rose essential oils on the level of anxiety and severity of pain following C-section. Methods This triple-group randomized clinical trial was performed on 90 mothers who visited Motahari Hospital of Jahrom, Iran, for C-section in 2017. The incidence and severity of pain and anxiety were measured and recorded for all three groups prior to intervention. The intervention groups underwent aromatherapy with lavender and Damask rose essential oils. Patients were asked to inhale cotton balls, separately stained with three drops of each essential oil at a distance of 10 cm for 30 mins. The severity of pain and anxiety was measured using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) 5 min after the specified process, respectively. The control group underwent aromatherapy in a similar fashion with normal saline. Finally, data were analyzed using descriptive statistical indices and ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests in SPSS 21. Results There was no significant difference between the three groups in the mean severity of pain and anxiety before the intervention (p>0.05). The mean severity of pain and overt anxiety in the lavender and Damask rose aromatherapy groups was significantly different than the control group after the intervention (p<0.001). In addition, no significant difference was observed between the overt and overall anxiety levels of the two intervention groups after the intervention (p>0.05). Conclusions The findings suggested that inhalation aromatherapy can reduce the severity of overt anxiety and pain after C-section, with Damask rose essential oil showing a larger effect than lavender. Article Published Date : Nov 14, 2019

Abstract Title: The effect of aromatherapy on mental, physical symptoms, and social functions of females with premenstrual syndrome: A randomized clinical trial. Abstract Source: J Family Med Prim Care. 2019 Sep ;8(9):2990-2996. Epub 2019 Sep 30. PMID: 31681680 Abstract Author(s): Naval Heydari, Mliheh Abootalebi, Naeimeh Tayebi, Fahimeh Hassanzadeh, Maryam Kasraeian, M Emamghoreishi, Marzieh Akbarzadeh Article Affiliation: Naval Heydari Abstract: Objective: This study was designed to compare the effect of aromatherapy with Rosa Damascena and Citrus Aurantium blossom on psychological and physical symptoms and social functions of females with premenstrual syndrome. Materials and Methods: This double-blind clinical trial was conducted on 95 students. They were randomly divided into three aromatherapy groups (aromatherapy with 4% concentration of Rosa Damascena and 0.5% concentration of Citrus Aurantium blossom essential oil) and aromatherapy with sweet almond oil (as control group). Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool questionnaire (PSST) was completed before and during the first and second month of the intervention. Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 22. Results: After intervention, the scores of mental symptoms decreased in all three groups and this decrease was significant in both Citrus Aurantium (= 0.004) and Rosa Damascena groups (= 0.007). The score of physical symptoms was decreased in all three groups but it was significant only in the Rosa Demecensa group (= 0.042). The reduction of effect of symptoms on social function was observed in two intervention groups which were significant only in Rosa Damascena group (<0.001). Conclusion: Essential oils of Rosa Damascena and Citrus Aurantium were both effective in improving the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome but the effect of Rosa Damascena, with regard to improvement of symptoms of premenstrual syndrome was more than that of Citrus Aurantium in all psychological, physical, and social aspects. Article Published Date : Aug 31, 2019

Abstract Title: Aromatherapy reduces fatigue among women with hypothyroidism: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Abstract Source: J Complement Integr Med. 2019 Aug 22. Epub 2019 Aug 22. PMID: 31437124 Abstract Author(s): Jessie Hawkins, Christy Y Hires, Elizabeth W Dunne, Lindsey A Keenan Article Affiliation: Jessie Hawkins Abstract: Background This randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial identifies the effect of an aromatherapy blend of essential oils on fatigue, which is one of the most commonly unaddressed symptoms of hypothyroidism, by evaluating the effects of daily aromatherapy inhalation. Methods Participants included women aged 18-55 with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism. Women who had a history of thyroid cancer were excluded, due to the confounding effects of cancer on fatigue as the outcome of interest. Participants were randomized into two groups: the aromatherapy group, treated with inhalation of the essential oil blend, and the control group, treated with an odorless vegetable oil blend. The primary outcome was change from baseline in fatigue scores as measured by the Multidimensional Fatigue Symptom Inventory (MFSI), a validated instrument which measures multiple patterns of fatigue. Results After adjusting for baseline scores, no significant difference was found between the aromatherapy group and the control group at midpoint. Both groups experienced a reduction in symptoms during the first week of the intervention. At the endpoint, participants in the aromatherapy group had improved fatigue scores across all ten subscales, as compared to the control group. Not all improvements achieved statistical significance, indicating that the aromatherapy treatment has a greater effect on the subscales of global, affective, and general fatigue. Conclusions This is the first study to evaluate the effects of aromatherapy on fatigue among women with hypothyroidism. These findings provide evidence that regular inhalation of an aromatherapy blend may reduce fatigue among women with hypothyroidism, particularly in the areas of global, affective, and general fatigue. Article Published Date : Aug 21, 2019

Abstract Title: Comparing effects of aromatherapy with lavender essential oil and orange essential oil on fatigue of hemodialysis patients: A randomized trial. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2019 Aug ;36:64-68. Epub 2019 May 29. PMID: 31383445 Abstract Author(s): Sharare Ahmady, Mansour Rezaei, Alireza Khatony Article Affiliation: Sharare Ahmady Abstract: BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Fatigue is a common complication of hemodialysis. This study aimed to compare the effects of aromatherapy with essential oils of lavender and orange on the fatigue of hemodialysis patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety subjects were randomly allocated into three groups of aromatherapy with lavender essential oil, aromatherapy with orange essential oil and control. Data collection tool was the Fatigue Severity Scale. In each experimental group, subjects inhaled five drops of lavender essential oil and orange essential oil. RESULTS: The difference in the mean of fatigue before and after the intervention in each of the experimental groups was statistically significant, but this difference was not significant in the control group. Between the two groups of aromatherapy, no significant difference was observed in terms of the mean fatigue after the intervention. CONCLUSION: Aromatherapy with lavender essential oil and orange essential oil might reduce fatigue in hemodialysis patients. Article Published Date : Jul 31, 2019

Abstract Title: Effects of aromatherapy massage on pain, functional state, and quality of life in an elderly individual with knee osteoarthritis. Abstract Source: Jpn J Nurs Sci. 2019 May 30. Epub 2019 May 30. PMID: 31144450 Abstract Author(s): Seda Pehlivan, Ayfer Karadakovan Article Affiliation: Seda Pehlivan Abstract: AIM: To investigate the effects of aromatherapy massage on pain, functional state and life quality of elderly individuals with knee osteoarthritis. METHODS: This controlled and experimental study was conducted in two nursing homes. In this study, 90 elderly individuals with knee osteoarthritis were randomized as aromatherapy, massage and control groups. Data were collected in weeks 0, 4, and 8 using Patient Information Form, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) Knee Osteoarthritis Evaluation Scale, OsteoArthritis Knee and Hip Quality of Life Scale (OAKHQoL). Aromatherapy and massage groups received a total of 15-20 min total classic leg massage twice weekly for 3 weeks. In the aromatherapy group, two essential oils (ginger and rosemary) were added to the black seed oil. RESULTS: In the aromatherapy group, WOMAC (pain and functional state) scores were lower and quality of life scores were higher than the massage and control groups in week 4, and these differences were statistically significant (p < .001). These significant differences were present in the massage group when compared with the control (p < .001). These significant differences in the aromatherapy group were also sustained decreasingly in week 8 (p < .001), while the means were not different from baseline in the massage group (p > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Aromatherapy massage performed in elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis reduced pain and improved functional status and quality of life. The week 8 findings showed that aromatherapy has more favorable and longer sustained effects than the massage. Article Published Date : May 29, 2019

Abstract Title: Essential Oils to Reduce Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting. Abstract Source: J Perianesth Nurs. 2019 May 27. Epub 2019 May 27. PMID: 31147268 Abstract Author(s): Maxine A Fearrington, Brandon W Qualls, Mary G Carey Article Affiliation: Maxine A Fearrington Abstract: PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine if using essential oil products for adult patients reduced the need for antiemetics for postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). DESIGN: A prospective and retrospective cross-sectional design using a convenience sample. METHODS: Double blinded to the type of essential oil, subjects randomly selected a nasal inhaler containing peppermint, ginger, or a combination of both. A prophylactic dose was given preoperatively, and during the postoperative period nausea was assessed using verbal descriptive scale. FINDINGS: Overall 322 same day surgical patients were analyzed (control group [n = 179] and intervention group [n = 143]). The intervention group had a greater history of PONV but received fewer doses of antiemetics postoperatively compared with the control group. There was no significant difference in the effectiveness of the three types of inhalers. CONCLUSIONS: Aromatherapy demonstrated a statistically significant (P<.05) reduction in the need for antiemetics to treat PONV. Article Published Date : May 26, 2019

Abstract Title: A randomized placebo-controlled study of aromatherapy for the treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Med. 2019 Feb ;42:417-421. Epub 2018 Dec 28. PMID: 30670276 Abstract Author(s): Serkan Karaman, Tugba Karaman, Hakan Tapar, Serkan Dogru, Mustafa Suren Article Affiliation: Serkan Karaman Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare the aromatherapy treatment effects on PONV patients using ginger, lavender and rose oils and a placebo. DESIGN: A randomized 4-armed placebo controlled study. SETTING: Gaziosmanpasa University, School of Medicine, Health Research and Application Center. INTERVENTION: The total of 184 patients were randomized into 4 groups: Aromatherapy with lavender essential oil (Lavender group), with rose essential oil (Rose group), with ginger essential oil (Ginger group) or with pure water (Placebo group). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Postoperative nausea (0-3 Likert type; 0=no nausea, 1=some, 2=a lot, 3=severe) and vomiting scores (0-3 Likert type; 0=no vomiting, 1 = 1 time, 2 = 2 or 3 time, 3 = 4 times and up) and antiemetic medication requirement. RESULTS: The nausea scores at 15 min were statistically significantly different between the groups (p = 0.00). The postoperative nausea scores improved in 20 (43.5%) subjects in the placebo group, 38 (82.6%) subjects in the lavender group, 22 (47.8%) subjects in the rose group and 30 (65.2%) subjects in the ginger group (p = 0.00). There were statistically significant differences between the groups with regard to the vomiting and antiemetic drug requirements (p = 0.00). CONCLUSION: The aromatherapy can be used as an alternative or complementary method for managing PONV. Specifically, the ginger and lavender essential oils were superior to the rose oil and pure water for the aromatherapy treatments. However, further studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to confirm these results. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 2019

Abstract Title: Anti-Fatigue, Antioxidation, and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Eucalyptus Oil Aromatherapy in Swimming-Exercised Rats. Abstract Source: Chin J Physiol. 2018 Oct 31 ;61(5):257-265. PMID: 30384399 Abstract Author(s): Tso-Ching Lin, Sue-Hong Wang, Chuan-Chuan Huang, Yung-Cheng Lai, Tuzz-Ying Song, Ming-Shiun Tsai Article Affiliation: Tso-Ching Lin Abstract: Eucalyptus globulus possesses important pharmacological activities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. We investigated the anti-fatigue, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of eucalyptus essential oil after swimming exercise using an animal model. Male Sprague– Dawley rats were administered eucalyptus oil (200 μL/h) daily via inhalation (15 min), and anti-fatigue effects were assessed following eucalyptus essential oil administration for 2 or 4 weeks when forced to swim until exhaustion while carrying ~5% body weight-equivalent. To assess antioxidantand anti-inflammatory effects, control and oil-treated groups were subjected to swimming, which was intensified from 90 min to 120 min daily over 4 weeks, with non-swimming groups included as controls. The 2- and 4-week-treated rats increased their swimming-to-exhaustion time by 46 s and 111 s, respectively. Additionally, lactate (LA), creatine kinase (CK), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities increased significantly in the non-treated swimming relative to levels observed in the non-swimming groups (P<0.05); however, no significant differences in these markers were observed between the treated groups. The anti-fatigue effects were related to LA clearance and reduced LDH and CK concentrations. Moreover, compared to the corresponding levels in the non-swimmers, the non-treated swimmers showed markedly elevated levels of liver malondialdehyde (MDA), xanthine oxidase (XO), and other factors, but significantly decreased (P<0.05) glutathione (GSH) concentrations. However, compared with that of the non-swimmer group, the treated swimming group showed no significant changes in these levels (P>0.05), suggesting stable XO and MDA production and maintenance of GSH levels. These results suggested that eucalyptus oil aromatherapy increased rat swimming performance and antioxidant capacity and decreased oxidative damage and inflammatory reactions in tissues, indicating good anti-fatigue, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects after high-intensity endurance exercise. Article Published Date : Oct 30, 2018

Abstract Title: The Effects of Inhalation Aromatherapy with Rose and Lavender at Week 38 and Postpartum Period on Postpartum Depression in High-risk Women Referred to Selected Health Centers of Yazd, Iran in 2015. Abstract Source: Iran J Nurs Midwifery Res. 2018 Sep-Oct;23(5):395-401. PMID: 30186346 Abstract Author(s): Maryam Kianpour, Fateme Moshirenia, GolamReza Kheirabadi, GolamReza Asghari, Ali Dehghani, Arefah Dehghani-Tafti Article Affiliation: Maryam Kianpour Abstract: Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is one of the most common problems in women of childbearing age. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of aromatherapy on PPD. Materials and Methods: In this study, 105 pregnant women at 35-37 weeks of pregnancy were enrolled using convenient sampling and randomly assigned to three groups. The intervention group dropped 7 drops of lavender oil and 1 cc rose water at the concentration of 100%, and the placebo group dropped 7 drops of odorless sesame seed oil, with 1 cc of musk willow sweat at the concentration of 100% by dropper on a special cloth. They put the cloths on their mouths and took 10 deep breaths before sleeping and then placed them next to their pillows. The control group only received the routine care. The intervention lasted from 38week of pregnancy until 6 weeks after delivery. Then depression level was determined before the intervention, 35-37 weeks of pregnancy, 2 and 6 weeks after delivery using Edinburgh questionnaire. Results: The mean of depression score in the intervention group decreased significantly compared to the placebo and control groups, 2 weeks (= 9.412,<0.001) and 6 weeks after delivery (= 7.813,<0.01). Conclusions: This study provides valid evidence for the effect of aromatherapy on PPD. Therefore, the use of aromatherapy can be recommended in high. Article Published Date : Aug 31, 2018

Abstract Title: Effect of Volatile Organic Chemicals inLinné on Blood Pressure and Electroencephalogram. Abstract Source: Molecules. 2018 Aug 17 ;23(8). Epub 2018 Aug 17. PMID: 30126122 Abstract Author(s): Da-Som Kim, Young-Min Goo, Jinju Cho, Jookyeong Lee, Dong Yeol Lee, Seung Mi Sin, Young Sook Kil, Won Min Jeong, Keon Hee Ko, Ki Jeung Yang, Yun Geun Kim, Sang Gon Kim, Kiseong Kim, Young Jun Kim, Jae Kyeom Kim, Eui-Cheol Shin Article Affiliation: Da-Som Kim Abstract: This study identified the volatile organic compounds in the essential oils that are extracted fromLinné (Linné) and investigated the effects of the inhalation of these compounds. We detected a total of 41 volatile organic compounds, including 32 hydrocarbons, four acids, three alcohols, two ketones, and one aldehyde. In a sniffing test, seven types of volatile organic compounds were identified. Furthermore, the volatile organic compounds inLinné that were identified were found to be derived from 1,8-cineole and camphor. After inhalation of the essential oils, the subjects' systolic blood pressure and heart rate decreased. This indicates that inhalation of the essential oils extracted fromLinné provides mental and physical relaxation. We examined the changes in electroencephalogram findings that are observed afterLinné essential oil inhalation. An increase in theta and alpha waves, which usually appear during relaxation, as well as a decrease in beta and gamma waves, which appear during brain activity such as excessive attention, were noted. These results indicate thatLinné essential oil inhalation helps to reduce blood pressure and may provide mental and physical relaxation. Article Published Date : Aug 16, 2018

Abstract Title: Effect of Aromatherapy on the Treatment of Psychological Symptoms in Postmenopausal and Elderly Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Abstract Source: J Menopausal Med. 2018 Aug ;24(2):127-132. Epub 2018 Aug 31. PMID: 30202763 Abstract Author(s): Masoudeh Babakhanian, Masumeh Ghazanfarpour, Leila Kargarfard, Nasibeh Roozbeh, Leili Darvish, Talat Khadivzadeh, Fatemeh Rajab Dizavandi Article Affiliation: Masoudeh Babakhanian Abstract: Objectives: To critically assess the effect of aromatherapy on the psychological symptoms as noted in the postmenopausal and elderly women. Methods: Three following databases were systematically searched: MEDLINE, Scopus and Cochrane Library (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) from inception to January 2018. The search keywords included 'menopause' AND (aromatherapy), without language restrictions. Results: In this study, 4 trials were included which fit into our systematic review. The findings demonstrated that the aromatherapy massage have significantly improved psychological symptoms in menopausal and elderly women as compared to the control group (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -1.24; 95% confidence interval, -0.188 to -0.606;<0.001 random effect model; 3 trials, moderate to high heterogeneity, I= 0.76;= 0.028). According to 1 of the trials, the aromatherapy oil massage was no more effective than the untreated group regarding their experience of symptoms such as nervousness. Conclusions: The aromatherapy may be beneficial in attenuating the psychological symptoms that these women may experience, such as anxiety and depression, but it is not considered as an effective treatment to manage nervousness symptom among menopausal women. This finding should be observed in light of study limitations. Article Published Date : Jul 31, 2018

Abstract Title: Evaluation of aromatherapy with essential oils of Rosa damascena for the management of premenstrual syndrome. Abstract Source: Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2018 Aug ;142(2):156-161. Epub 2018 Jun 8. PMID: 29788545 Abstract Author(s): Naval Heydari, Maliheh Abootalebi, Neda Jamalimoghadam, Maryam Kasraeian, Masoumeh Emamghoreishi, Marzieh Akbarzaded Article Affiliation: Naval Heydari Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of aromatherapy with essential oils of Rosa damascena for the management of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). METHODS: The present triple-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted between March 5, 2016, and February 20, 2017, among female students attending Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran, who experienced PMS, had a menstrual cycle of 24-35 days, were not using vitamin supplements or hormonal drugs, and did not have any underlying diseases. Block randomization was used to assign participants to an intervention group receiving aromatherapy with R. damascena at a 4% concentration or a control group who received aromatherapy with 100% sweet almond oil. Aromatherapy was performed for 5 minutes, twice daily, for a total of 5 days during the luteal phase. The premenstrual symptoms screening tool questionnaire was completed at baseline and after 1 and 2 months of treatment. Per-protocol analyses were performed with patients and investigators masked to group assignments. RESULTS: There were 66 participants enrolled and 64 completed the study (33 in the intervention group and 31 in the control group). At 2 months, aromatherapy with R. damascena was associated with improved psychological (P<0.001), physical (P<0.001), social (P=0.002), and total (P<0.001) PMS symptoms compared with baseline. By contrast, no improvements were recorded in the control group. CONCLUSION: Aromatherapy with R. damascena improved multiple symptoms of PMS. IRANIAN REGISTRY OF CLINICAL TRIALS: IRCT2016031113940N3. Article Published Date : Jul 31, 2018

Abstract Title: Investigation of the effect of aromatherapy with Citrus aurantium blossom essential oil on premenstrual syndrome in university students: A clinical trial study. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2018 Aug ;32:1-5. Epub 2018 Apr 14. PMID: 30057033 Abstract Author(s): N Heydari, M Abootalebi, N Jamalimoghadam, M Kasraeian, M Emamghoreishi, M Akbarzadeh Article Affiliation: N Heydari Abstract: BACKGROUND: The aim was to investigate the effect of aromatherapy using Citrus aurantium blossom essential oil on premenstrual syndrome in university students. METHODS: In this double-blind clinical trial controlled on 62 students from March 2016 to February 2017. The intervention with 0.5% of C. Aurantium blossom essential oil and control was inhalation of odorless sweet almond oil in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. The screening questionnaire (PSST) for PMSwas filled out before and also one and two months after the intervention. RESULTS: Mean score of overall symptoms of PMS between the Bitter orange and control groups In the first (p < 0.003) and second months (p < 0.001) of the intervention was significant. Besides, decreased the mean score of psychological symptoms in the intervention group (p < 0.001), but on physical symptoms and social function was not significant (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The aromatherapy with Citrus aurantium blossom improved the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Article Published Date : Jul 31, 2018

Abstract Title: Effect of aromatherapy interventions on hemodialysis complications: A systematic review. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2018 Aug ;32:130-138. Epub 2018 Jun 13. PMID: 30057040 Abstract Author(s): Salehoddin Bouya, Sudabeh Ahmadidarehsima, Mahin Badakhsh, Abbas Balouchi, Maryam Koochakzai Article Affiliation: Salehoddin Bouya Abstract: BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Aromatherapy, a CAM therapy, is a natural way of treating the mind, body and soul of individuals. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature to determine the effect of aromatherapy on hemodialysis complications. METHODS: In this systematic review, international (PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, CINHAL, EMBASE and Scopus) and national databases (SID and Magiran) were searched from inception of the databases to 30 December 2017. RESULTS: The results showed that aromatherapy reduced some of the complications of hemodialysis, including anxiety, fatigue, pruritus, pain of arteriovenous fistula puncture, sleep quality, depression, stress and headache. In one case, it improved the quality of life of hemodialysis patients. CONCLUSION: Considering the complications and heavy costs of managing complications in patients undergoing hemodialysis, it appears that aromatherapy can be used as an inexpensive, fast-acting and effective treatment to reduce complications in hemodialysis patients. Article Published Date : Jul 31, 2018

Abstract Title: Effectiveness of Aromatherapy Massage and Inhalation on Symptoms of Depression in Chinese Community-Dwelling Older Adults. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2018 Jul ;24(7):717-724. Epub 2018 Mar 22. PMID: 29565630 Abstract Author(s): Mei Xiong, Yanzhang Li, Ping Tang, Yuping Zhang, Min Cao, Junwei Ni, Mengmeng Xing Article Affiliation: Mei Xiong Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Geriatric depression is a major public health problem in China. The study compared the intervention and follow-up effects of aromatherapy massage and inhalation on symptoms of depression in community-dwelling older adults after an 8-week intervention. DESIGN: A prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted on community-dwelling adults≥60 years old, with symptoms of depression. Participants were randomly assigned, by Latin Square, to aromatherapy massage, inhalation, or control groups (each n = 20). INTERVENTIONS: The aromatherapy massage group received 30 min of aromatherapy massage with 5 mL oil, twice weekly for 8 weeks. The oil contained 50 μL (one drop) of compound essential oils (lavender [Lavandula angustifolia], sweet orange [Citrus sinensis], and bergamot (Citrus bergamia in a 2:1:1 ratio)], diluted in sweet almond oil to a concentration of 1%. The aromatherapy inhalation group received 30 min of nasal inhalation of 50 μL of the compound essential oils blended in 10 mL of purified water, twice weekly for 8 weeks. The control group received no intervention. OUTCOME MEASURES: The Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form (GDS-SF) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) were used for assessment at pretest, posttest, and 6- and 10-week follow-ups in all groups. 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) concentration was assessed pretest and posttest. RESULTS: Postintervention, the aromatherapy massage and inhalation groups demonstrated significantly lower GDS-SF and PHQ-9 scores than control participants. Compared with the pretest, the GDS-SF and PHQ-9 scores for depressive symptoms in both experimental groups remained lower at posttest (8 weeks), 6-week (14 weeks), and 10-week (18 weeks) follow-ups. However, the GDS-SF and PHQ-9 scores did not differ among the four time points in the control group. The posttest 5-HT concentrations in the aromatherapy massage and inhalation groups were increased over pretest values. CONCLUSIONS: Both aromatherapy massage and aromatherapy inhalation may have important implications for intervening depression in older adults. Article Published Date : Jun 30, 2018

Abstract Title: The Effect of Lavender Aromatherapy on the Symptoms of Menopause. Abstract Source: J Natl Med Assoc. 2018 Jun ;110(3):265-269. Epub 2017 Aug 18. PMID: 29778129 Abstract Author(s): Roya Nikjou, Rafat Kazemzadeh, Firoozeh Asadzadeh, Razzag Fathi, Farideh Mostafazadeh Article Affiliation: Roya Nikjou Abstract: OBJECTIVES: The menopause is a natural biological process that is happened by a permanent regal stop due to the loss of performance. The aim of this research is to evaluate the effect of lavender aromatherapy on the menopause symptoms. STUDY DESIGN: This double-blind cross over clinical trial carried out on 100 menopause women (between 45 and 155 years old) referring to health centers in Ardabil in 2013-14. The samples blocked randomly, placed in two experimental (Lavender) and control (diluted milk) groups. Lavender aroma is smelled two times daily for 20 min during 12 weeks by research subjects. Data were collected by Green questionnaire and the analysis of data carried out in SPSS v.16 by paired t-test. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The level of the symptoms has been decreased significantly after using lavender. RESULTS: Comparing the level of the symptoms before and after using lavender in experimental group suggested that the rate of the menopause symptoms has been decreased significantly (P = 0.000). The comparison of the mean of the menopause symptoms after intervention between two groups suggested that the menopause symptoms in the experimental group had a significant decrease comparing the control group (P = 0.000). CONCLUSION: Using the lavender aromatherapy decreases menopause symptoms. According to the undesirable effect of the menopause symptoms on the quality of life of the menopausal women, these interventions may be instructed by midwives in the treatment and care centers as a health activity. Article Published Date : May 31, 2018

Abstract Title: Effect of aromatherapy on coping with premenstrual syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Med. 2018 Feb ;36:63-67. Epub 2017 Dec 1. PMID: 29458934 Abstract Author(s): Tuğba Uzunçakmak, Sultan Ayaz Alkaya Article Affiliation: Tuğba Uzunçakmak Abstract: BACKGROUND AND AIM: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a health problem which begins approximately one week before menstruation in women occurs as a set of physical and psychological symptoms. This study aimed to determine the effect of aromatherapy on coping with premenstrual syndrome in university students. METHODS: A randomized controlled trial design was used. This study included 40 students in the intervention and 37 students in the control groups. Data was collected by questionnaire form and PMS scale. The intervention and control groups were followed up for 3 cycles in terms of PMS symptoms. The method of inhalation aromatherapy by lavender oil was applied for 5 sessions on average for each cycle. RESULTS: When PMS mean scores of the intervention and control groups during 3 follow-up periods were compared, it was found that there is a statistically significant difference between intervention and control groups (p<0.05). It was determined that there is a statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of PMS scale and sub-dimensions of anxiety, depressive affect, nervousness, pain, bloating, depressive thoughts mean scores of pre-test and 3rd follow-up (p<0.05), CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that inhalation aromatherapy can be used for coping with PMS. It is recommended that the students suffering from PMS problems should be informed on the inhalation therapy by lavender oil. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 2018

Abstract Title: Effects of aromatherapy with Rosa damascena on nulliparous women's pain and anxiety of labor during first stage of labor. Abstract Source: J Integr Med. 2018 03 ;16(2):120-125. Epub 2018 Feb 9. PMID: 29526235 Abstract Author(s): Sepideh Hamdamian, Soheila Nazarpour, Masoumeh Simbar, Sepideh Hajian, Faraz Mojab, Atefeh Talebi Article Affiliation: Sepideh Hamdamian Abstract: BACKGROUND: Reducing labor pain and anxiety is one of the most important goals of maternity care. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the effects of aromatherapy with Rosa damascena on pain and anxiety in the first stage of labor among nulliparous women. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS AND INTERVENTIONS: This was a randomized clinical trial of 110 nulliparous women. The eligible participants were randomly assigned to two groups of aromatherapy and control in an Iranian maternity hospital. The participants received 0.08 mL of Rosa damascena essence in the aromatherapy group and 0.08 mL of normal saline in the control group, every 30 min. Pain was measured 3 times, once each at three stages of cervical dilation (4-5, 6-7, and 8-10 cm). Anxiety was measured twice, once each at two stages of cervical dilation(4-7 and 8-10 cm). The tools for data collection were the Spielberger anxiety questionnaire, numerical pain rating scale, demographic and obstetric questionnaire, and an observational checklist. Data analyses included the t-test, Mann-Whitney U test and Chi-square test. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Severity of labor pain and severity of anxiety were used as primary outcome measures. Labor and delivery characteristics (including number of contractions, duration of contractions in second stage, Bishop score, augmentation by oxytocin, Apgar score, and mode of delivery), demographic characteristics, and fertility information were used as secondary outcome measures. RESULTS: Pain severity in the group receiving aromatherapy with R. damascena was significantly lower than in the control group after treatment at each pain assessment (cervical dilation of 4-5, 6-7, and 8-10 cm; P < 0.05). Anxiety levels were also significantly lower in the treatment group than in the control group after treatment at each time of measurement (cervical dilation of 4-7 and 8-10 cm; P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Aromatherapy with R. damascena reduced the severity of pain and anxiety in the first stage of labor. Aromatherapy with R. damascena is a convenient and effective method for pain and anxiety reduction during the first stage of labor. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trial: IRCT201306258801N3. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2017

Abstract Title: Effect of LavenderEssential Oil on Acute Inflammatory Response. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2018 ;2018:1413940. Epub 2018 Mar 18. PMID: 29743918 Abstract Author(s): Gabriel Fernando Esteves Cardia, Saulo Euclides Silva-Filho, Expedito Leite Silva, Nancy Sayuri Uchida, Heitor Augusto Otaviano Cavalcante, Larissa Laila Cassarotti, Valter Eduardo Cocco Salvadego, Ricardo Alexandre Spironello, Ciomar Aparecida Bersani-Amado, Roberto Kenji Nakamura Cuman Article Affiliation: Gabriel Fernando Esteves Cardia Abstract: is a plant of Lamiaceae family, with many therapeutic properties and biological activities, such as anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect ofMill. essential oil (LEO) on acute inflammatory response. LEO was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) methods and showed predominance of 1,8-cineole (39.83%), borneol (22.63%), and camphor (22.12%). LEO at concentrations of 0.5, 1, 3, and 10 g/ml did not presentcytotoxicity. Additionally, LEO did not stimulate the leukocyte chemotaxis. The LEO topical application at concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/ear reduced edema formation, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and nitric oxide (NO) production in croton oil-induced ear edema model. In carrageenan-induced paw edema model, LEO treatment at doses of 75, 100, and 250 mg/kg reduced edema formation, MPO activity, and NO production. In dextran-induced paw edema model, LEO at doses of 75 and 100 mg/kg reduced paw edema and MPO activity. In conclusion, LEO presented anti-inflammatory activity, and the mechanism proposed of LEO seems to be, at least in part, involving the participation of prostanoids, NO, proinflammatory cytokines, and histamine. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2017

Abstract Title: Effects of geranium aroma on anxiety among patients with acute myocardial infarction: A triple-blind randomized clinical trial. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2017 Nov ;29:201-206. Epub 2017 Oct 16. PMID: 29122262 Abstract Author(s): Razieh Shirzadegan, Mohammad Gholami, Shirin Hasanvand, Mehdi Birjandi, Afsaneh Beiranvand Article Affiliation: Razieh Shirzadegan Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The is study examined the effects of geranium aroma on anxiety among patients with AMI. METHODS: This randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial recruited 80 patients with AMI through convenience sampling. The patients were allocated to geranium and placebo groups (n = 40 each) using stratified block randomization. On the second day of admission three drops of geranium essential oil and placebo were poured on absorbing patches attached inside the oxygen masks of the geranium and placebo groups, respectively. The patients were asked to inhale the aroma for 20 min a day on two consecutive days. RESULTS: all stages of the intervention, the two groups had a significant difference in anxiety scores, i.e. geranium aroma caused significantly greater reductions in the anxiety scores (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Inhalation aromatherapy with geranium essential oil is recommended as an easy-to-use, intervention to reduce anxiety among patients with AMI. Article Published Date : Oct 31, 2017

Abstract Title: Essential oil of lavender in anxiety disorders: Ready for prime time? Abstract Source: Ment Health Clin. 2017 Jul ;7(4):147-155. Epub 2018 Mar 26. PMID: 29955514 Abstract Author(s): Benjamin J Malcolm, Kimberly Tallian Article Affiliation: Benjamin J Malcolm Abstract: Anxiety disorders are some of the most common psychiatric disorders, with potentially debilitating consequences on individual function. Existing pharmacotherapies for anxiety disorders are limited by delay to therapeutic effect, dependence, tolerance, withdrawal, and abuse potential. Therefore, safe and evidence-based complementary or alternative therapies may be important allies in the care of patients with anxiety disorders. Essential oils are lipophilic and concentrated botanical extracts that exhibit many properties of drugs, although they are not Food and Drug Administration approved and have limitations characteristic of herbal preparations. Lavender essential oil has an extensive anecdotal history of anxiolytic benefit that has recently been supported by clinical efficacy studies. The 2 primary terpenoid constituents of lavender essential oil, linalool and linalyl acetate, may produce an anxiolytic effect in combination via inhibition of voltage-gated calcium channels, reduction of 5HT1receptor activity, and increased parasympathetic tone. The objectives of this article are to provide a brief overview of lavender oil in aromatherapy, explore variability in the constituents of lavender oil, summarize its pharmacology and safety profile, as well as describe its body of research that has been conducted for anxiety. Article Published Date : Jun 30, 2017

Abstract Title: Inhalation of Roman chamomile essential oil attenuates depressive-like behaviors in Wistar Kyoto rats. Abstract Source: Sci China Life Sci. 2017 May 16. Epub 2017 May 16. PMID: 28527112 Abstract Author(s): Yingying Kong, Ting Wang, Rong Wang, Yichuan Ma, Shanshan Song, Juan Liu, Weiwei Hu, Shengtian Li Article Affiliation: Yingying Kong Abstract: The idea of aromatherapy, using essential oils, has been considered as an alternative antidepressant treatment. In the present study, we investigated the effect of Roman chamomile essential oil inhalation for two weeks on depressive-like behaviors in Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. We found that inhalation of either Roman chamomile or one of its main componentsα-pinene, attenuated depressive-like behavior in WKY rats in the forced swim test. Using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation analysis (iTRAQ), we found that inhalation of α-pinene increased expression of proteins that are involved in oxidative phosphorylation, such as cytochrome coxidase subunit 6C-2, cytochrome c oxidase subunit 7A2, ATPase inhibitor in the hippocampus, and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 6C-2, ATP synthase subunit e, Acyl carrier protein, and Cytochrome b-c1 complex subunit 6 in the PFC (prefrontal cortex). In addition, using the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction technique, we confirmed an increase of parvalbumin mRNA expression in the hippocampus, which was shown to be upregulated by 2.8-fold in iTRAQ analysis, in α-pinene treated WKY rats. These findings collectively suggest the involvement of mitochondrial functions and parvalbumin-related signaling in the antidepressant effect of α-pinene inhalation. Article Published Date : May 15, 2017

Abstract Title: Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) Essential Oil Inhalation Improves Positive Feelings in the Waiting Room of a Mental Health Treatment Center: A Pilot Study. Abstract Source: Phytother Res. 2017 May ;31(5):812-816. Epub 2017 Mar 24. PMID: 28337799 Abstract Author(s): Xuesheng Han, Jacob Gibson, Dennis L Eggett, Tory L Parker Article Affiliation: Xuesheng Han Abstract: Mental health issues have been increasingly recognized as public health problems globally. Their burden is projected to increase over the next several decades. Additional therapies for mental problems are in urgent need worldwide due to the limitations and costs of existing healthcare approaches. Essential oil aromatherapy can provide a cost-effective and safe treatment for many mental problems. This pilot study observed the effects of bergamot essential oil inhalation on mental health and well-being, as measured by the Positive and Negative Affect Scale, in a mental-health treatment center located in Utah, USA. Fifty-seven eligible participants (50 women, age range: 23-70 years) were included for analysis. Fifteen minutes of bergamot essential oil exposure improved participants' positive feelings compared with the control group (17% higher). Unexpectedly, more participants participated in experimental periods rather than control periods, suggesting even brief exposure to essential oil aroma may make people more willing to enroll in clinical trials. This study provides preliminary evidence of the efficacy and safety of bergamot essential oil inhalation on mental well-being in a mental health treatment center, suggesting that bergamot essential oil aromatherapycan be an effective adjunct treatment to improve individuals' mental health and well-being. © 2017 The Authors. Phytotherapy Research published by John Wiley&Sons Ltd. Article Published Date : Apr 30, 2017

Abstract Title: The Effectiveness of Aromatherapy for Depressive Symptoms: A Systematic Review. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2017 ;2017:5869315. Epub 2017 Jan 4. PMID: 28133489 Abstract Author(s): Dalinda Isabel Sánchez-Vidaña, Shirley Pui-Ching Ngai, Wanjia He, Jason Ka-Wing Chow, Benson Wui-Man Lau, Hector Wing-Hong Tsang Article Affiliation: Dalinda Isabel Sánchez-Vidaña Abstract: Background. Depression is one of the greatest health concerns affecting 350 million people globally. Aromatherapy is a popular CAM intervention chosen by people with depression. Due to the growing popularity of aromatherapy for alleviating depressive symptoms, in-depth evaluation of the evidence-based clinical efficacy of aromatherapy is urgently needed. Purpose. This systematic review aims to provide an analysis of the clinical evidence on the efficacy of aromatherapy for depressive symptoms on any type of patients. Methods. A systematic database search was carried out using predefined search terms in 5 databases: AMED, CINHAL, CCRCT, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO. Outcome measures included scales measuring depressive symptoms levels. Results. Twelve randomized controlled trials were included and two administration methods for the aromatherapy intervention including inhaled aromatherapy (5 studies) and massage aromatherapy (7 studies) were identified. Seven studies showed improvement in depressive symptoms. Limitations. The quality of half of the studies included is low, and the administration protocols among the studies varied considerably. Different assessment tools were also employed among the studies. Conclusions. Aromatherapy showed potential to be used as an effective therapeutic option for the relief of depressive symptoms in a wide variety of subjects. Particularly, aromatherapy massage showed to have more beneficial effects than inhalation aromatherapy. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Aromatherapy with two essential oils from Satureja genre and mindfulness meditation to reduce anxiety in humans. Abstract Source: J Tradit Complement Med. 2017 Jan ;7(1):121-125. Epub 2016 Jun 27. PMID: 28053898 Abstract Author(s): Marilú Roxana Soto-Vásquez, Paúl Alan Arkin Alvarado-García Article Affiliation: Marilú Roxana Soto-Vásquez Abstract: The goal of this study was to verify whether association of aromatherapy with essential oils of Satureja brevicaly or Satureja boliviana and mindfulness meditation can reduce anxiety levels in humans. A randomized experimental trial was carried out with 108 participants who were divided into 6 groups, comprising a waiting list control group and five experimental groups. Aromatherapy was carried out by inhalation of essential oils while mindfulness intervention program was focused on"flow meditation". The anxiety index was evaluated by State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Measures were taken two times: pretest and posttest. State and Trait anxiety scores showed a decrease in posttest study phase in comparison with pretest in all experimental groups (p < 0.005), especially in those where aromatherapy and mindfulness meditation were used together. All Cohen's d scores were over to 1 that means a large size effect in anxiety variable. Percentages of change showed reductions of anxiety variable ranging between 20% and 47%. All treatments used isolated or associated, may be considered alternative treatment options for anxiety. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Does Inhalation of Virgin Coconut Oil Accelerate Reversal of Airway Remodelling in an Allergic Model of Asthma? Abstract Source: Int J Inflam. 2017 ;2017:8741851. Epub 2017 Jun 4. PMID: 28660089 Abstract Author(s): N A Kamalaldin, S A Sulaiman, M R Yusop, B Yahaya Article Affiliation: N A Kamalaldin Abstract: Many studies have been done to evaluate the effect of various natural products in controlling asthma symptoms. Virgin coconut oil (VCO) is known to contain active compounds that have beneficial effects on human health and diseases. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of VCO inhalation on airway remodelling in a rabbit model of allergic asthma. The effects of VCO inhalation on infiltration of airway inflammatory cells, airway structures, goblet cell hyperplasia, and cell proliferation following ovalbumin induction were evaluated. Allergic asthma was induced by a combination of ovalbumin and alum injection and/or followed by ovalbumin inhalation. The effect of VCO inhalation was then evaluated via the rescue or the preventive route. Percentage of inflammatory cells infiltration, thickness of epithelium and mucosa regions, and the numbers of goblet and proliferative cells were reduced in the rescue group but not in preventive group. Analysis using a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry found that lauric acid and capric acid were among the most abundant fatty acids present in the sample. Significant improvement was observed in rescue route in alleviating the asthma symptoms, which indicates the VCO was able to relieve asthma-related symptoms more than preventing the onset of asthma. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Aromatherapy and Aromatic Plants for the Treatment of Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease: Clinical Evidence and Possible Mechanisms. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2017 ;2017:9416305. Epub 2017 Mar 30. PMID: 28465709 Abstract Author(s): Damiana Scuteri, Luigi Antonio Morrone, Laura Rombolà, Pina Rosa Avato, Anna Rita Bilia, Maria Tiziana Corasaniti, Shinobu Sakurada, Tsukasa Sakurada, Giacinto Bagetta Article Affiliation: Damiana Scuteri Abstract: The treatment of agitation and aggression, typical Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSDs) of Alzheimer's Disease (AD), is one of the most complicated aspects of handling patients suffering from dementia. Currently, the management of these symptoms often associated with an increased pain perception, which notably reduces the patients' quality of life (QoL), relies on the employment of antipsychotic drugs. Unfortunately, the use of these pharmacological agents has some limits: in the long term, they do not result in being equally effective as in the first weeks of treatment and they present important side effects. Therefore, there is growing interest, supported by clinical evidence, in aromatherapy for the control of agitation, aggression, and psychotic symptoms. Some molecular mechanisms have been proposed to explain the behavioural effects of essential oils, as the whole phytocomplex or the single components, but important basic research effort is still needed. For this reason, rigorous preclinical studies are necessary in order to understand the pharmacological basis of aromatherapy in the treatment of BPSDs and to widen the cluster of effective essential oils in pharmacotherapeutic practice. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Clinical Pharmacology of Citrus bergamia: A Systematic Review. Abstract Source: Phytother Res. 2017 Jan ;31(1):27-39. Epub 2016 Oct 17. PMID: 27747942 Abstract Author(s): Carmen Mannucci, Michele Navarra, Fabrizio Calapai, Raffaele Squeri, Sebastiano Gangemi, Gioacchino Calapai Article Affiliation: Carmen Mannucci Abstract: Citrus bergamia Risso et Poiteau ("Bergamot") originated from the Mediterranean ecoregion (southern Italy, Calabria). Bergamot essential oil (BEO) is used in perfumes, cosmetics, and for stress reduction. Juice from C. bergamia has been used for hyperlipidemia. We evaluated literature published on C. bergamia clinical applications. Clinical trials on C. bergamia not combined with other substances, published in English, were searched. We selected ten articles, six describing BEO effects on stress, three reporting effects of polyphenolic fraction of C. bergamia juice in hyperlipidemia and the last describing BEO effects in chronic psoriasis. Clinical studies were analyzed following Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials for herbal therapy. Studies were conducted on small sample sizes and not havehigh quality level. Analysis indicates that BEO aromatherapy could be safe and useful to reduce stress symptoms. One study suggests its potential supportive role in ultraviolet B therapy against psoriasis. Supplementation with polyphenols from bergamot juice reduces plasma lipids and improves lipoprotein profile in moderate hyperlipidemia. Effectiveness and safety of C. bergamia cannot be definitively drawn because of publication bias and low quality level of the majority of studies. Further large-scale trials with rigorous design are required to define the role of C. bergamia in clinicalpractice. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley&Sons, Ltd. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: The effect of aromatherapy with lavender essence on severity of labor pain and duration of labor in primiparous women. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2016 Nov ;25:81-86. Epub 2016 Aug 17. PMID: 27863615 Abstract Author(s): Mansoreh Yazdkhasti, Arezoo Pirak Article Affiliation: Mansoreh Yazdkhasti Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Lavender essence inhalation on severity of labor pain and duration of labor. METHODS AND MATERIALS: This single-blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted on 120 pregnant women in two groups. The experimental group received 2 drops of Lavender essence inhaled at three stages (4-5, 6-7, 8-9 cm cervical dilation) and severity of the labor pain and duration of labor was measured before and after intervention. The control group was treated with distilled water as a placebo in the similar ways, too. RESULTS: The results showed that difference in the labor pain before and after intervention in two groups was significant (P = 0/001). But there was no difference in mean duration of the active phase and the second stage of labor between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Lavender essence aromatherapy may be an effective therapeutic option for pain management for women in labor. Article Published Date : Oct 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Aromatherapy Improves Work Performance Through Balancing the Autonomic Nervous System. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2016 Oct 20. Epub 2016 Oct 20. PMID: 27763785 Abstract Author(s): Lin Huang, Lluis Capdevila Article Affiliation: Lin Huang Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study analyzed the efficacy of aromatherapy in improving work performance and reducing workplace stress. SUBJECTS: The initial sample comprised 42 administrative university workers (Mage = 42.21 years, standard deviation = 7.12; 10 male). INTERVENTION: All sessions were performed in a university computer classroom. The participants were randomly assigned into an aromatherapy group (AG) and a control group (CG), and they were invited to participate in a specific session only once. They were seated in front of a computer. During the intervention period, some oil diffusers were switched on and were in operation throughout the session with petitgrain essential oil for AG sessions and a neutral oil (almond) for CG sessions. At the same time, participants completed a computer task on a specific Web site typing on their keyboard until they had finished it. The single times were different for all participants and were recorded on the Web site as"performance time." OUTCOME MEASURES: Before and after the intervention, participants completed anxiety and mood state questionnaires (the Stait-Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI] and the Profile of Mood States [POMS]). Heart-rate variability (HRV) was measured before (PRE), during (20-25 min), and after (POS) the intervention to analyze autonomic nervous system regulation. RESULTS: The AG performed the Web site task 2.28 min faster than the CG (p = 0.05). The two groups showed differences in the following HRV parameters: low frequency (p = 0.05), high frequency (p = 0.02), standard deviation of all RR intervals (p = 0.05), and root mean square of differences (p = 0.02). All participants in allgroups showed a decrease from PRE to POST for STAI (p < 0.001), Tension-POMS (p < 0.001), and Vigour-POMS (p = 0.01) scales. CONCLUSIONS: Aromatherapy (inhaling petitgrain essential oil) can improve performance in the workplace. These results could be explained by an autonomic balance on the sympathetic/parasympathetic system through a combined action of the petitgrain main components (linalyl acetate, linalool, and myrcene). The final effect could be an improvement of the mental and emotional condition by a combination of reducing the stress level and increasing the arousal level of the participants in terms of attentiveness and alertness. Article Published Date : Oct 19, 2016

Abstract Title: The Effect of Aromatherapy on Anxiety in Patients. Abstract Source: Nephrourol Mon. 2016 Sep ;8(5):e38347. Epub 2016 Jul 31. PMID: 27878109 Abstract Author(s): Farzaneh Barati, Ahmad Nasiri, Negarin Akbari, Gholamreza Sharifzadeh Article Affiliation: Farzaneh Barati Abstract: BACKGROUND: Anxiety is the most common mental disorder in end-stage renal disease patients. The use of aromatherapy as a treatment for anxiety has increased substantially in most countries. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the effect of inhaling rose water aromatherapy on anxiety in hemodialysis patients. METHODS: This randomized controlled clinical trial was carried out in the hemodialysis ward of Birjand Vali-Asr hospital on 46 patients who were randomly divided into control and experimental groups. The standard state-trait anxiety inventory of Spielberger was used to investigate the anxiety level of the samples. The experimental group inhaled rose water for 4 weeks, but the control group did not undergo any intervention. At the end of week 2 and week 4, the participants' anxiety was measured, and the results were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: Mean scores of state and trait anxiety in the experimental group before intervention were 47/47± 7/6 and 49/56 ± 13/8, respectively; those after week 4 following the intervention were reduced to 37/1 ± 6/5 and 42/9 ± 10/1; inhalation of rose water fragrance in the experimental group caused a significant decrease (P<0.001) in the state and trait anxiety levels compared with controls (P = 0.43). CONCLUSIONS: According to the present study, rose water noticeably reduces the anxiety of hemodialysis patients. Therefore, inhalation of rose water can improve the patient's emotional and spiritual condition during hemodialysis treatment. Article Published Date : Aug 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Effect of lavender aromatherapy on menopause hot flushing: A crossover randomized clinical trial. Abstract Source: J Chin Med Assoc. 2016 Sep ;79(9):489-92. Epub 2016 Jul 4. PMID: 27388435 Abstract Author(s): Rafat Kazemzadeh, Roya Nikjou, Masoumeh Rostamnegad, Hosein Norouzi Article Affiliation: Rafat Kazemzadeh Abstract: BACKGROUND: Flushing is generally considered to be the primary symptom of menopause and is typically the most common complaint in menopausal women. Although flushing poses no danger to a woman's health, it decreases the quality of life. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the effect of lavender aromatherapy on menopause flushing. METHODS: This double-blinded crossover clinical trial included 100 menopausal women 45-55 years of age who were referred to various health centers in Ardabil, Iran in 2013-2014. Samples were blocked randomly and divided into two intervention (lavender) and control (diluted milk) groups. Lavender aroma was smelled for 20 minutes twice a day, over a 12-week period. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, and flushing numbers were duly recorded. Data analysis was performed by SPSS version 16 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) using the Chi-square and t test. RESULTS: The results of our investigation showed that both groups had no significant difference according to demographic characteristics (p > 0.05). Additionally, the flushing number significantly decreased in the intervention group than in the control group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study indicated that the use of lavender aromatherapy reduced menopause flushing. Given the impact of stress on flushing and the undesirable effects of menopause symptoms on the quality of life, it would appear that this simple, noninvasive, safe, and effective method can be used by menopausal women with noticeable benefits. Article Published Date : Aug 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Comparing the effects of aromatherapy massage and inhalation aromatherapy on anxiety and pain in burn patients: A single-blind randomized clinical trial. Abstract Source: Burns. 2016 Aug 26. Epub 2016 Aug 26. PMID: 27575673 Abstract Author(s): Alehe Seyyed-Rasooli, Feridoon Salehi, Asghar Mohammadpoorasl, Sakineh Goljaryan, Zahra Seyyedi, Brian Thomson Article Affiliation: Alehe Seyyed-Rasooli Abstract: BACKGROUND: Anxiety and pain are recognized as major problems of burn patients; because pharmaceutical treatments for controlling anxiety and pain symptoms lead to complications and an increase in health costs, nonpharmacological nursing interventions were considered for this group of patients. This led to the present study aimed at comparing the effect of aromatherapy massage with inhalation aromatherapy for anxiety and pain in burn patients. METHODS: This single-blind clinical trial was carried out on 90 patients with burns<20%. Patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups, namely aromatherapy massage, inhalation aromatherapy, and control group. The patients assigned to the aromatherapy massage group received a massage for half an hour using a blend of lavender and almond oils, while a blend of rose and lavender aroma was used for the inhalation aromatherapy group. Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory was used for measuring anxiety and the visual analog scale (VAS) scale was used for measuring pain. RESULTS: The results showed that three groups were equal in terms of demographics, disease characteristics, and scores of anxiety and pain at the baseline. The mean decreases of anxiety scores were -0.04±5.08, 6.33±12.55, and 6.43±10.60 in the control group, aromatherapy massage group, and inhalation group, respectively (p=0.007). The mean decrease of pain scores were -0.10±0.96, 1.70±1.84, and 0.97±1.56 in the control group, aromatherapy massage group, and inhalation group, respectively (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The study results showed the positive effect of aromatherapy massage and inhalation aromatherapy compared with the control group in reducing both anxiety and pain of burn patients. Therefore, both interventions, which are inexpensive, and noninvasive nursing tasks can be proposed for alleviating anxiety and pain of burn patients. Article Published Date : Aug 25, 2016

Abstract Title: The Effect of Lavender Aromatherapy on the Pain Severity of Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Triple-blind Randomized Clinical Trial. Abstract Source: Ann Med Health Sci Res. 2016 Jul-Aug;6(4):211-215. PMID: 28480095 Abstract Author(s): R Nikjou, R Kazemzadeh, M Rostamnegad, S Moshfegi, M Karimollahi, H Salehi Article Affiliation: R Nikjou Abstract: BACKGROUND: Primary dysmenorrhea is the most common complaint in adolescents and adult young women that disturbs their daily life performance. AIM: The current study investigated the effect of lavender aromatherapy on pain severity in primary dysmenorrhea. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This triple-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on 200 students of Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Subjects were allocated randomly into intervention (lavender) and control (placebo) groups. The researcher assistant asked the participants to smell the lavender in the first 3 days of menstruation, 30 min in a day in two menstrual cycles. Control group was also administered placebo (diluted milk) to be used as lavender in treatment group. Pain severity was scored by visual analog scale in the first 3 days of menstruation before intervention and 2 months after intervention. Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics and independent and paired samples t-tests. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in average pain severity between treatment and control groups after intervention. However, students in the treatment group reported significantly less pain severity 2 months after intervention (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: Using lavender aromatherapy for 2 months may be effective in decreasing the pain severity of primary dysmenorrhea. Article Published Date : Jun 30, 2016

Abstract Title: The effect of inhalation aromatherapy with damask rose (Rosa damascena) essence on the pain intensity after dressing in patients with burns: A clinical randomized trial. Abstract Source: Iran J Nurs Midwifery Res. 2016 May-Jun;21(3):247-54. PMID: 27186201 Abstract Author(s): Ali Bikmoradi, Mehdi Harorani, Ghodratollah Roshanaei, Shirin Moradkhani, Golam Hossein Falahinia Article Affiliation: Ali Bikmoradi Abstract: BACKGROUND: Pain is one of the common problems encountered by patients with burns, which increases after each dressing. This study aimed to investigate the effect of inhalation aromatherapy with damask rose essence on the pain of patients with burns that is caused after dressing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized clinical trial was conducted on 50 patients with second- and third-degree burn wounds. The baseline pain of the patients was assessed 30 min before they entered into the dressing room on the first and second days of intervention. The patients in the experimental group inhaled five drops of damask rose essence 40% in distilled water, while those in the control group inhaled five drops of distilled water as placebo. The pain intensity was assessed using Visual Analogue Scale at 15 and 30 min after the patients exited from the dressing room. Data were analyzed by SPSS (version 18) using descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS: There was significant difference between the mean of pain intensity before and after intervention at 15 and 30 min after dressing (P<0.001). Moreover, there was significant difference in reduction of pain intensity before and after aromatherapy in the experimental group (P<0.05). Also, there was a significant reduction in severity of pain after dressing in the experimental group compared with the control group (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Inhalation aromatherapy with damask rose could be effective for relieving the pain caused after dressing in patients with burns. Therefore, it could be suggested as a complementary therapy in burn patients for pain relief. Article Published Date : Apr 30, 2016

Abstract Title: Evaluating the efficacy of lavender aromatherapy on peripheral venous cannulation pain and anxiety: A prospective, randomized study. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2016 May ;23:64-8. Epub 2016 Mar 25. PMID: 27157961 Abstract Author(s): Tugba Karaman, Serkan Karaman, Serkan Dogru, Hakan Tapar, Aynur Sahin, Mustafa Suren, Semih Arici, Ziya Kaya Article Affiliation: Tugba Karaman Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of lavender aromatherapy on pain, anxiety, and level of satisfaction associated with the peripheral venous cannulation (PVC) in patients undergoing surgery. METHOD: One hundred and six patients undergoing surgery were randomized to receive aromatherapy with lavender essential oil (the lavender group) or a placebo (the control group) during PVC. The patients' pain, anxiety, and satisfaction scores were measured. RESULTS: There was no statistically significantly difference between the groups in terms of demographic data. After cannulation, the pain and anxiety scores (anxiety 2) of the patients in the lavender group were significantly lower than the control group (for p = 0.01 for pain scores; p < 0.001 for anxiety 2 scores). In addition, patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the lavender group than in the control group (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: Lavender aromatherapy had beneficial effects on PVC pain, anxiety, and satisfaction level of patients undergoing surgery. Article Published Date : Apr 30, 2016

Abstract Title: Anxiolytic Effect of Citrus aurantium L. on Patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia. Abstract Source: Phytother Res. 2016 Apr ;30(4):613-7. Epub 2016 Jan 20. PMID: 26787366 Abstract Author(s): Flávia Cristina Fernandes Pimenta, Mateus Feitosa Alves, Martina Bragante Fernandes Pimenta, Silvia Adelaide Linhares Melo, Anna Alice Figueirêdo de Almeida, José Roberto Leite, Liana Clébia de Morais Pordeus, Margareth de Fátima Formiga Melo Diniz, Reinaldo Nóbrega de Almeida Article Affiliation: Flávia Cristina Fernandes Pimenta Abstract: The bone marrow aspiration procedure is used in hematological diseases and consists of a painful, invasive procedure causing anxiety-associated symptoms. The present study assessed the effect of Citrus aurantium L. essential oil on the treatment of anxiety, in the moment that precedes the collection of medullary material in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Volunteers from both sexes were divided into groups receiving either the C. aurantium essential oil through inhalation, diazepam (10 mg), or the placebo. The evaluation was performed through psychometric scales [State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI)] and physiological measurements (blood pressure and cardiac and respiratory frequency). Inhalation of C. aurantium was associated with a decrease in the STAI-S scores, suggesting ananxiolytic effect. In support of these results, a change in all the physiological measurements was observed in the group exposed to C. aurantium. In the diazepam group, only the diastolic pressure decreased, and no effect was observed in the placebo group. Therefore, the results showed that C. aurantium exhibits an anxiolytic effect and reduces the signs and symptoms associated with anxiety in patients with CML. Article Published Date : Mar 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Effect of Inhalation of Aromatherapy Oil on Patients with Perennial Allergic Rhinitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2016 ;2016:7896081. Epub 2016 Mar 13. PMID: 27034695 Abstract Author(s): Seo Yeon Choi, Kyungsook Park Article Affiliation: Seo Yeon Choi Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the effects of aromatherapy oil inhalation on symptoms, quality of life, sleep quality, and fatigue level among adults with perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR). Fifty-four men and women aged between 20 and 60 were randomized to inhale aromatherapy oil containing essential oil from sandalwood, geranium, and Ravensara or almond oil (the placebo) for 5 minutes twice daily for 7 days. PAR symptoms determined by Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS), the Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ), sleep quality by Verran Synder-Halpern (VSH) scale, and fatigue level by Chalder Fatigue Scale (CFS) were assessed before and after intervention period. Compared with the placebo, the experimental group showed significant improvement in TNSS, especially in nasal obstruction. The aromatherapy group also showed significantly higher improvements in total score of RQLQ and CFS. These findings indicate that inhalation of certain aromatherapy oil helps relieve PAR symptoms, improve rhinitis-specific quality of life, and reduce fatigue in patients with PAR. In conclusion, inhalation of aromatherapy essential oil may have potential as an effective intervention to alleviate PAR. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: A Randomized Controlled Trial for the Effectiveness of Aromatherapy in Decreasing Salivary Gland Damage following Radioactive Iodine Therapy for Differentiated Thyroid Cancer. Abstract Source: Biomed Res Int. 2016 ;2016:9509810. Epub 2016 Nov 30. PMID: 28042578 Abstract Author(s): Michihiro Nakayama, Atsutaka Okizaki, Koji Takahashi Article Affiliation: Michihiro Nakayama Abstract: Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate effects of aromatherapy in decreasing salivary gland damage for patients undergoing radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). Materials and Methods. The subjects were 71 patients with DTC. They were divided into aromatherapy group (group A, n = 35) and a control group (group B, n = 36). We blended 1.0 mL of lemon and 0.5 mL of ginger essential oils. The patients in the inhalation aromatherapy group inhaled this blend oil and those in the control group inhaled distilled water as placebo for 10 min during admission. We statistically compared salivary gland function before and after treatmentbetween groups A and B. Results. In comparison with group B, the rate of change of the accumulation rate was significantly higher in the parotid glands and submandibular glands of group A (P<0.05). In comparison with group B, a significant increase in rate of secretion change before and after treatment was noted in the bilateral parotid glands in group A (P<0.05). Conclusion. Because an amelioration of salivary gland function was observed in the present study, our results suggest the efficacy of aromatherapy in the prevention of treatment-related salivary gland disorder. This trial is registered with UMIN Clinical Trial Registry: UMIN000013968. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: The Effectiveness of Aromatherapy in Reducing Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Abstract Source: Pain Res Treat. 2016 ;2016:8158693. Epub 2016 Dec 14. PMID: 28070420 Abstract Author(s): Shaheen E Lakhan, Heather Sheafer, Deborah Tepper Article Affiliation: Shaheen E Lakhan Abstract: Background. Aromatherapy refers to the medicinal or therapeutic use of essential oils absorbed through the skin or olfactory system. Recent literature has examined the effectiveness of aromatherapy in treating pain. Methods. 12 studies examining the use of aromatherapy for pain management were identified through an electronic database search. A meta-analysis was performed to determine the effects of aromatherapy on pain. Results. There is a significant positive effect of aromatherapy (compared to placebo or treatments as usual controls) in reducing pain reported on a visual analog scale (SMD = -1.18, 95% CI: -1.33, -1.03; p<0.0001). Secondary analyses found that aromatherapy is more consistent for treating nociceptive (SMD = -1.57, 95% CI: -1.76, -1.39, p<0.0001) and acute pain (SMD = -1.58, 95% CI: -1.75, -1.40, p<0.0001) than inflammatory (SMD = -0.53, 95% CI: -0.77, -0.29, p<0.0001) and chronic pain (SMD = -0.22, 95% CI: -0.49, 0.05, p = 0.001), respectively. Based on the available research, aromatherapy is most effective in treating postoperative pain (SMD = -1.79, 95% CI: -2.08, -1.51, p<0.0001) and obstetrical and gynecological pain (SMD = -1.14, 95% CI: -2.10, -0.19, p<0.0001). Conclusion. The findings of this study indicate that aromatherapy can successfully treat pain when combined with conventional treatments. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: Effect of Lemongrass Aroma on Experimental Anxiety in Humans. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2015 Dec ;21(12):766-73. Epub 2015 Sep 14. PMID: 26366471 Abstract Author(s): Tiago Costa Goes, Fábio Reis Carvalho Ursulino, Thiago Henrique Almeida-Souza, Péricles Barreto Alves, Flavia Teixeira-Silva Article Affiliation: Tiago Costa Goes Abstract: OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential anxiolytic effect of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) aroma in healthy volunteers submitted to an anxiogenic situation. DESIGN: Forty male volunteers were allocated to four different groups for the inhalation of lemongrass essential oil (test aroma: three or six drops), tea tree essential oil (control aroma: three drops), or distilled water (nonaromatic control: three drops). Immediately after inhalation, each volunteer was submitted to an experimental model of anxiety, the video-monitored version of the Stroop Color-Word Test (SCWT). OUTCOME MEASURES: Psychologic parameters (state anxiety, subjective tension, tranquilization, and sedation) and physiologic parameters (heart rate and gastrocnemius electromyogram activity) were evaluated before the inhalation period and before, during, and after the SCWT. RESULTS: Individuals exposed to the test aroma (three and six drops), unlike the control groups, presented a reduction in state anxiety and subjective tension, immediately after treatment administration. In addition, although they presented an anxious response to the task, they completely recovered from it in 5 min, unlike the control groups. Physiologic alterations along the test were not prevented by any treatment, in the same way as has previously been observed for diazepam. CONCLUSIONS: Although more investigations are necessary to clarify the clinical relevance of lemongrass essential oil as an anxiety treatment, this work shows that very brief exposure to this aroma has some perceived anxiolytic effects. Article Published Date : Nov 30, 2015

Abstract Title: The effect of aromatherapy by essential oil of orange on anxiety during labor: A randomized clinical trial. Abstract Source: Iran J Nurs Midwifery Res. 2015 Nov-Dec;20(6):661-4. PMID: 26793249 Abstract Author(s): Fahimeh Rashidi-Fakari, Mahbubeh Tabatabaeichehr, Hamed Mortazavi Article Affiliation: Fahimeh Rashidi-Fakari Abstract: BACKGROUND: Labor is a stressful situation that may have an adverse impact. Aromatherapy is a method to control anxiety and stress of women. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of aromatherapy using essential oil of orange on women's anxiety during labor. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this clinical trial study, 100 women during labor were randomly assigned to two groups: intervention group and control group. The women in the intervention group were exposed to orange essential oil, but the women in the control group were exposed to distilled water. The women's anxiety was assessed using the Spielberger inventory. Moreover, physiological parameters such as systolic and diastolic blood pressure, respiration and pulse rates were assessed in all the women before and 20 min after the intervention. The data were analyzed by Chi-square, Wilcoxon, paired t-test, and Mann-Whitney U test. Data were evaluated with the SPSS 16 program. The significance level of P<0.05 was considered. RESULTS: The level of anxiety of women in both intervention (P = 0.03) and control (P = 0.003) groups reduced after the intervention. However, the reduction was more in the intervention group (difference in anxiety scores after the intervention in comparison to before intervention = -3.08) in comparison to the control group (score = -1.14). No significant change was found in the physiological parameters of women in the intervention group after the intervention. CONCLUSIONS: Aromatherapy is a noninvasive and effective method to help women overcome their anxiety during labor. Orange scent can be useful in childbirth units to help women who are experiencing stress in labor. Article Published Date : Oct 31, 2015

Abstract Title: The Effect of Lavender Oil in Patients with Renal Colic: A Prospective Controlled Study Using Objective and Subjective Outcome Measurements. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2015 Oct ;21(10):617-22. Epub 2015 Jul 29. PMID: 26222759 Abstract Author(s): Hilal Irmak Sapmaz, Murat Uysal, Ufuk Taş, Mehmet Esen, Mustafa Barut, Battal Tahsin Somuk, Tufan Alatlı, Safiye Ayan Article Affiliation: Hilal Irmak Sapmaz Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To assess the usability of lavender oil as an adjuvant in the medical treatment of pain due to renal stones. METHODS: One hundred patients age 19-64 years diagnosed with renal colic were included in the study. Group 1 (n=50) received standard medical therapy (diclofenac sodium, 75 mg intramuscularly); group 2 (n=50) received aromatherapy (lavender oil) in addition to the standard medical treatment. In both groups, the severity of the pain was graded between 0 (no pain) and 10 (severe pain) by using the visual analogue scale (VAS). RESULTS: The VAS values at the beginning and at 10 and 30 minutes in group 1 were 7.70±1.61, 5.02±2.20, and 2.89±1.96, respectively; in group 2, the values were 7.83±2.02, 4.42±2.46, and 2.20±1.74, respectively. The VAS values for the male patients in group 1 at the beginning and at 10 and 30 minutes were 7.61±1.47, 4.80±2.00, and 2.67±1.74; in the female patients, the values were 7.81±1.80, 5.40±2.41, and 3.72±1.94. For the male patients in group 2, the VAS values at the beginning and at 10 and 30 minutes were 8.25±2.01, 4.93±2.72, and 2.96±1.90, respectively; for the female patients, the values were 7.52±1.94, 4.15±1.95, and 1.21±0.91, respectively. Resultsare presented as mean±SD. Although there was no significant difference between the VAS values at the beginning and at 10 minutes in both groups, the VAS values at 30 minutes in the group receiving aromatherapy plus conventional treatment were statistically significantly low. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that the use of aromatherapy, which is a nonpharmacologic treatment method, as an adjuvant to conventional treatment methods will help decrease pain, particularly in female patients. Article Published Date : Sep 30, 2015

Abstract Title: Ambient odors of orange and lavender reduce anxiety and improve mood in a dental office. Abstract Source: Physiol Behav. 2005 Sep 15;86(1-2):92-5. PMID: 16095639 Abstract Author(s): J Lehrner, G Marwinski, S Lehr, P Johren, L Deecke Article Affiliation: University Clinic of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Abstract: The goal of this study was to investigate the impact of the essential oils of orange and lavender on anxiety, mood, alertness and calmness in dental patients. Two hundred patients between the ages of 18 and 77 years (half women, half men) were assigned to one of four independent groups. While waiting for dental procedures patients were either stimulated with ambient odor of orange or ambient odor of lavender. These conditions were compared to a music condition and a control condition (no odor, no music). Anxiety, mood, alertness and calmness were assessed while patients waited for dental treatment. Statistical analyses revealed that compared to control condition both ambient odors of orange and lavender reduced anxiety and improved mood in patients waiting for dental treatment. These findings support the previous opinion that odors are capable of altering emotional states and may indicate that the use of odors is helpful in reducing anxiety in dental patients. Article Published Date : Sep 15, 2005

Abstract Title: Essential oils reduce autonomous response to pain sensation during self-monitoring of blood glucose among children with diabetes. Abstract Source: J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab. 2015 Aug 15. Epub 2015 Aug 15. PMID: 26352081 Abstract Author(s): Beata Małachowska, Wojciech Fendler, Agnieszka Pomykała, Szymon Suwała, Wojciech Młynarski Article Affiliation: Beata Małachowska Abstract: BACKGROUND: Essential oils were proven to possess analgesic activity in adults. Children with diabetes are exposed to highly painful interventions such as self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). OBJECTIVE: An evaluation of the analgesic properties of two essential oils during SMBG in diabetic children. SUBJECTS: We included 73 hospitalized children (age<18 years) with well-controlled type 1 diabetes. METHODS: The study extended over a period of 1 month (2 weeks for control group and 1 week for orange and lavender oil application). The measurements were performed four times per day in a shared room during SMBG. Pain intensity was evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS) and change of baseline heart rate (ΔHR%). An aromatherapy device was used to disperse essential oils in the testing room. RESULTS: We performed 647 individual measurements of pain intensity andΔHR%. Girls reported higher VAS scores [median, Me 0.5 (interquartile range, IQR 0-1) vs. 0 (IQR 0-0.5), p=0.0036]. Both age and duration of diabetes correlated with ΔHR% [r=-0.14, p=0.0005; r=-0.12, p=0.0025]. Negative correlations were also noted for VAS/age [r=-0.12, p=0.0030] and VAS/durationof diabetes [r=-0.12, p=0.0034]. Aromatherapy did not alter the VAS score (p=0.40), while ΔHR% decreased with borderline significance (p=0.0639). After adjustment for patient's age and sex lower ΔHR% was associated with essential oil application (p=0.0252). Aromatherapy did not have any influenceon VAS scores in multivariate analysis (p=0.35). CONCLUSION: Aromatherapy decreased the autonomic response to a painful stimulus by loweringΔHR%, but did not affect the perception of pain reported by VAS. Article Published Date : Aug 14, 2015

Abstract Title: Intracerebral Distribution of a-Pinene and the Anxiolytic-like Effect in Mice Following Inhaled Administration of Essential Oil from Chamaecyparis obtuse. Abstract Source: Nat Prod Commun. 2015 Aug ;10(8):1479-82. PMID: 26434146 Abstract Author(s): Hikaru Kasuya, Sayuka Iida, Kurumi Ono, Tadaaki Satou, Kazuo Koike Article Affiliation: Hikaru Kasuya Abstract: The anxiolytic-like and stress reduction effects following inhaled administration of essential oil from Chamaecyparis obtusa (EOCO) have been reported. Volatile components are thought to produce these effects of EOCO by neurological transfer and pharmacological transfer. The regions of the brain in which inhaled compounds are found due to pharmacological transfer of EOCO are not known. This research was undertaken to clarify the relationship between the intracerebral distribution ofα-pinene, which is the main component of EOCO, and emotional behavior. α-Pinene was detected as the main component of volatile EOCO. The amount of α-pinene in each region of the brain was measured following inhaled administration of EOCO. The amount of α-pinene was different in each region of the brain. With inhaled administration of 32 μL/L air EOCO, a high concentration of α-pinene was observed. However, no significant differences in the concentration of α-pinene among brain regions were found. A therapeutic concentration of α-pinene (8 μL/L air EOCO) in each region of the brain mayinduce an anxiolytic-like effect, and a high concentration of α-pinene (32 μL/L air EOCO) in each region of the brain may induce an excitatory-like effect. The increases in the concentration of α-pinene from 8 to 32 μL/L air EOCO in the striatum and the hippocampus were significantly lower compared with the increases in other brain regions. These results indicate that regions besides the striatum and the hippocampus participated in the increase in locomotor activity due to the high concentration of α-pinene in the brain. Article Published Date : Jul 31, 2015

Abstract Title: Effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality and anxiety of patients. Abstract Source: Nurs Crit Care. 2015 Jul 27. Epub 2015 Jul 27. PMID: 26211735 Abstract Author(s): Ezgi Karadag, Sevgin Samancioglu, Dilek Ozden, Ercan Bakir Article Affiliation: Ezgi Karadag Abstract: BACKGROUND: In intensive care units (ICUs), patients cannot sleep well. Aromatherapy is used for depression, anxiety, relaxation and disorders related with sleep and stress. AIM: This study aimed to investigate the effect of lavender essential oil on the sleep quality and anxiety level of patients in coronary ICU. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 60 patients in coronary ICU participated in this study. DESIGN: A randomized controlled study was conducted with 60 patients in a province located in the southeast of Turkey. METHODS: After informing the patients in both groups about the study, they were administered a questionnaire, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) scale. The patients in the intervention group were given 2% lavender essential oil via inhalation for 15 days after which they were administered the same scales again to evaluate the sleep quality and anxiety. As for the control group, they were administered the same scales again after 15 days without the inhalation of lavender essential oil. RESULTS: Comparison of the PSQI and BAI scores of the patients in the control and intervention groups before and after the intervention showed statistically significant differences in the change in favour of the intervention group (p<0·05). CONCLUSION: Lavender essential oil increased quality of sleep and reduced level of anxiety in patients with coronary artery disease. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: As a non-invasive, cheap, easily applicable, cost-effective, independent nursing intervention and appropriate for cardiac patients, lavender essential oil could be applied in ICUs. Article Published Date : Jul 26, 2015

Abstract Title: Effect of Hinoki and Meniki Essential Oils on Human Autonomic Nervous System Activity and Mood States. Abstract Source: Nat Prod Commun. 2015 Jul ;10(7):1305-8. PMID: 26411036 Abstract Author(s): Chi-Jung Chen, K J Senthil Kumar, Yu-Ting Chen, Nai-Wen Tsao, Shih-Chang Chien, Shang-Tzen Chang, Fang-Hua Chu, Sheng-Yang Wang Article Affiliation: Chi-Jung Chen Abstract: Meniki (Chamecyparis formosensis) and Hinoki (C. obtusa) are precious conifers with excellent wood properties and distinctive fragrances that make these species popular in Taiwan for construction, interiors and furniture. In the present study, the compositions of essential oils prepared from Meniki and Hinoki were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Thirty-six compounds were identified from the wood essential oil of Meniki, includingΔ-cadinene, γ-cadinene, Δ-cadinol, α-muurolene, calamenene, linalyl acetate and myrtenol; 29 compounds were identified from Hinoki, including α-terpineol, α-pinene, Δ-cadinene, borneol, terpinolene, and limonene. Next, we examined the effect of Meniki and Hinoki essential oils on human autonomic nervous system activity. Sixteen healthy adults received Meniki or Hinoki by inhalation for 5 min, and the physiological and psychological effects were examined. After inhaling Meniki essential oil, participant's systolic blood pressure and heart rate (HR) were decreased, and diastolic blood pressure increased. In addition, sympathetic nervous activity (SNS) was significantly decreased, and parasympathetic activity (PSNS) was significantly increased. On the other hand, after inhaling Hinoki essential oil, systolic blood pressure, heart rate and PSNS were decreased, whereas SNA was increased. Indeed, both Meniki and Hinoki essential oils increased heart rate variability (HRV) in tested adults. Furthermore, in the Profile of Mood States (POMS) test, both Meniki and Hinoki wood essential oils stimulated a pleasant mood status. Our results strongly suggest that Meniki and Hinoki essential oils could be suitable agents for the development of regulators of sympathetic nervous system dysfunctions. Article Published Date : Jun 30, 2015

Abstract Title: Immunological and Psychological Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2005 Jun;2(2):179-184. Epub 2005 Apr 27. PMID: 15937558 Abstract Author(s): Hiroko Kuriyama, Satoko Watanabe, Takaaki Nakaya, Ichiro Shigemori, Masakazu Kita, Noriko Yoshida, Daiki Masaki, Toshiaki Tadai, Kotaro Ozasa, Kenji Fukui, Jiro Imanishi Abstract: This preliminary investigation compares peripheral blood cell counts including red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), neutrophils, peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs), CD4(+), CD8(+) and CD16(+) lymphocytes, CD4(+)/CD8(+) ratio, hematocrit, humoral parameters including serum interferon-gamma and interleukin-6, salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA). Psychological measures including the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) questionnaire and the Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) between recipients (n = 11) of carrier oil massage and aromatherapy massage, which includes sweet almond oil, lavender oil, cypress oil and sweet marjoram oil. Though both STAI and SDS showed a significant reduction (P<0.01) after treatment with aromatherapy and carrier massage, no difference between the aromatherapy and control massage was observed for STAI and SDS. Aromatherapy, in contrast to control massage, did not significantly reduce RBC count or hematocrit. However, aromatherapy massage showed a significant (P>0.05) increase in PBLs, possibly due to an increase in CD8(+) and CD16(+) lymphocytes, which had significantly increased post-treatment (P<0.01). Consequently, the CD4(+)/CD8(+) ratio decreased significantly (P<0.01). The paucity of such differences after carrier oil massage suggests that aromatherapy massage could be beneficial in disease states that require augmentation of CD8(+) lymphocytes. While this study identifies the immunological benefits of aromatherapy massage, there is a need to validate the findings prospectively in a larger cohort of patients. Article Published Date : Jun 01, 2005

Abstract Title: Effects of inhaled ginger aromatherapy on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and health-related quality of life in women with breast cancer. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Med. 2015 Jun ;23(3):396-404. Epub 2015 Apr 21. PMID: 26051575 Abstract Author(s): Pei Lin Lua, Noor Salihah, Nik Mazlan Article Affiliation: Pei Lin Lua Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of inhaled ginger aromatherapy on nausea, vomiting and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in chemotherapy breast cancer patients. DESIGN: Single-blind, controlled, randomized cross-over study. Patients received 5-day aromatherapy treatment using either ginger essential oil or fragrance-matched artificial placebo (ginger fragrance oil) which was instilled in a necklace in an order dictated by the treatment group sequence. SETTING: Two oncology clinics in the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: VAS nausea score, frequency of vomiting and HRQoL profile (EORTC QLQ-C30 scores). RESULTS: Sixty female patients completed the study (age=47.3±9.26 years; Malay=98.3%; on highly emetogenic chemotherapy=86.7%). The VAS nausea score was significantly lower after ginger essential oil inhalation compared to placebo during acute phase (P=0.040) but not sustained for overall treatment effect (treatment effect: F=1.82, P=0.183; time effect: F=43.98, P<0.001; treatment×time effect: F=2.04; P=0.102). Similarly, there was no significant effect of aromatherapy on vomiting [F(1, 58)=0.29, P=0.594]. However, a statistically significant change from baseline for global health status (P<0.001) was detected after ginger essential oil inhalation. A clinically relevant 10 points improvement on role functioning (P=0.002) and appetite loss (P<0.001) were also documented while patients were on ginger essential oil. CONCLUSION: At present time, the evidence derived from this study is not sufficiently convincing that inhaled ginger aromatherapy is an effective complementary therapy for CINV. The findings for HRQoL were however encouraging with significant improvement in several domains. Article Published Date : May 31, 2015

Abstract Title: Lavender fragrance essential oil and the quality of sleep in postpartum women. Abstract Source: Iran Red Crescent Med J. 2015 Apr ;17(4):e25880. Epub 2015 Apr 25. PMID: 26023343 Abstract Author(s): Mahnaz Keshavarz Afshar, Zahra Behboodi Moghadam, Ziba Taghizadeh, Reza Bekhradi, Ali Montazeri, Pouran Mokhtari Article Affiliation: Mahnaz Keshavarz Afshar Abstract: BACKGROUND: Labor and delivery is a stressful stage for mothers. During these periods, sleep-related disorders have been reported. The problems of inadequate sleep include decrease in concentration, judgment, difficulty in performing daily activities, and an increase in irritability. Even the effects of moderate sleep loss on life and health quality can be similar to sleep deprivation. some research aggravated by aromatherapy on sleep quality in different periods of life so might be useful for the improve of sleep quality in postpartum women. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the effect of aromatherapy on the quality of sleep in postpartum women. The sample was recruited from medical health centers of Zanjan University of Medical Sciences. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This study was a randomized clinical trial with the control group. A total of 158 mothers in postpartum period (with certain inclusion criteria) were enrolled in the study and assigned randomly to two groups of control and intervention. Lavender fragrance (made by Barij Essence Pharmaceutical Co.) was used by participants in the intervention group nightly before sleeping. The fragrance was dropped on cotton balls, which were placed on a cylindrical container at mothers' disposal. Keeping the container at a projected distance of 20 cm, the participants inhaled 10 deep breaths and then the container was placed beside their pillow until morning. This procedure was done 4 times a week for 8 weeks. For the control group, the same intervention was done with the placebo. The instrument for collecting data was Pittsburgh sleep quality index, which was completed at the baseline, fourth, and eighth weeks after the intervention. Data were analyzed using independent t test and repeated measures analysis of variance calculated by SPSS16. RESULTS: Before the intervention, there were no significant differences between mothers in two groups (P>0.05). After 8 weeks follow up, a significant improvement appeared in mothers' sleep quality in the intervention group. Aromatherapy increased sleep quality mean score (±SD) from 8.2911 (± 2.1192) to 6.7975 (± 2.3663) (P<0.05), but in the control group sleep quality mean score (±SD) changes from 8.4557 (± 2.3027) to 7.5696 (± 1.1464) (P>0.05). Comparing sleep quality between control and intervention groups after 8 weeks from the beginning of the intervention indicated that aromatherapy was effective in the improvement of mothers' sleep quality (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Considering the effects of aromatherapy on the improvement of mother's sleep quality during postpartum period, aromatherapy has been suggested as a non-pharmacological method for the improvement of the maternal health. Article Published Date : Mar 31, 2015

Abstract Title: Evaluation of the effect of aromatherapy with Rosa damascena Mill. on postoperative pain intensity in hospitalized children in selected hospitals affiliated to Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2013: A randomized clinical trial. Abstract Source: Iran J Nurs Midwifery Res. 2015 Mar-Apr;20(2):247-54. PMID: 25878704 Abstract Author(s): Maryam Marofi, Motahareh Sirousfard, Mahin Moeini, Alireza Ghanadi Article Affiliation: Maryam Marofi Abstract: BACKGROUND: Pain is the common complication after a surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of aromatherapy with Rosa damascena Mill. on the postoperative pain in children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, we selected 64 children of 3-6 years of age through convenient sampling and divided them randomly into two groups. Patients in group A were given inhalation aromatherapy with R. damascena Mill., and in group B, the patients were given almond oil as a placebo. Inhalation aromatherapy was used at the first time of subjects' arrival to the ward and then at 3, 6, 9, and 12 h afterward. Common palliative treatments to relieve pain were used in both groups. Thirty minutes after aromatherapy, the postoperative pain in children was evaluated with the Toddler Preschooler Postoperative Pain Scale (TPPPS). Data were statistically analyzed using Chi-square test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and repeated measures ANOVA. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in pain scores at the first time of subjects' arrival to the ward (before receiving any aromatherapy or palliative care) between the two groups. After each time of aromatherapy and at the end of treatment, the pain score was significantly reduced in the aromatherapy group with R. damascena Mill. compared to the placebo group. CONCLUSIONS: According to our results, aromatherapy with R. damascena Mill. can be used in postoperative pain in children, together with other common treatments without any significant side effects. Article Published Date : Feb 28, 2015

Abstract Title: The effects of aromatherapy on sleep improvement: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2015 Feb ;21(2):61-8. Epub 2015 Jan 13. PMID: 25584799 Abstract Author(s): Eunhee Hwang, Sujin Shin Article Affiliation: Eunhee Hwang Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the existing data on aromatherapy interventions for improvement of sleep quality. DESIGN: Systematic literature review and meta-analysis on the effects of aromatherapy. Study Sources: Electronic databases, including the Korea Education and Research Information Service (KERIS), Korean studies Information Service System (KISS), National Assembly Library, and eight academies within the Korean Society of Nursing Science, were searched to identify studies published between 2000 and August 2013. STUDY SELECTION: Randomized controlled and quasi-experimental trials that included aromatherapy for the improvement of sleep quality. Of the 245 publications identified, 13 studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and 12 studies were used in the meta-analysis. RESULTS: Meta-analysis of the 12 studies using a random-effects model revealed that the use of aromatherapy was effective in improving sleep quality (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.540-1.745; Z=3.716). Subgroup analysis revealed that inhalation aromatherapy (95% CI, 0.792-1.541; Z=6.107) was more effective than massage therapy (95% CI, 0.128-2.166; Z=2.205) in unhealthy (95% CI, 0.248-1.100; Z=3.100) and healthy (95% CI, 0.393-5.104; Z=2.287) participants, respectively. CONCLUSION: Readily available aromatherapy treatments appear to be effective and promote sleep. Thus, it is essential to develop specific guidelines for the efficient use of aromatherapy. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 2015

Abstract Title: [The effects of aromatherapy on pain, depression, and life satisfaction of arthritis patients]. Abstract Source: Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi. 2005 Feb ;35(1):186-94. PMID: 15778570 Abstract Author(s): Myung-Ja Kim, Eun-Sook Nam, Seun-In Paik Article Affiliation: College of Nursing, The Catholic University of Korea, Korea. Abstract: PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of aromatherapy on pain, depression, and feelings of satisfaction in life of arthritis patients. METHOD: This study used a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group, pre-and post-test. The sample consisted of 40 patients, enrolled in the Rheumatics Center, Kangnam St. Mary's Hospital, South Korea. The essential oils used were lavender, marjoram, eucalyptus, rosemary, and peppermint blended in proportions of 2:1:2:1:1. They were mixed with a carrier oil composed of almond (45%), apricot(45%), and jojoba oil(10%) and they were diluted to 1.5% after blending. The data were analyzed using an 2-test, Fisher's exact test, t-test and paired t-test. RESULT: Aromatherapy significantly decreased both the pain score and the depression score of the experimental group compared with the control group. However, aromatherapy didn't increase the feeling of satisfaction in life of the experimental group compared with the control group. CONCLUSION: The result of this study clearly shows that aromatherapy has major effects on decreasing pain and depression levels. Based on our experiment's findings, we suggest that aromatherapy can be a useful nursing intervention for arthritis patients. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 2005

Abstract Title: The effect of aromatherapy massage with lavender oil on severity of primary dysmenorrhea in Arsanjan students. Abstract Source: Iran J Nurs Midwifery Res. 2015 Jan-Feb;20(1):156-60. PMID: 25709705 Abstract Author(s): Froozan Bakhtshirin, Sara Abedi, Parisa YusefiZoj, Damoon Razmjooee Article Affiliation: Froozan Bakhtshirin Abstract: BACKGROUND: Presently, using complementary therapy such as lavender oil has specific application in medicine. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of aromatherapy massage on the severity of primary dysmenorrhea in nursing and midwifery students of Islamic Azad University of Arsanjan, Iran. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was performed using clinical trial method on 80 eligible students whose level of pain was measured by visual analogue scale (VAS) before the intervention. Each participant, in the first days of menstruation, randomly received two types of massage with lavender and placebo oil in two consecutive cycles of menstruation. Their level of pain was measured before and 30 min after the intervention. In this study, each group was considered as their self-control group in the next cycle. The data were analyzed by SPSS software. RESULTS: A significant decrease in VAS score after lavender massage was detected in comparison with placebo massage. There was a statistically significant difference between VAS scores after and before placebo massage. In addition, statistically the effect of lavender massage on the severity of primary dysmenorrhea was higher than that of placebo massage (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Findings of this study showed that lavender oil massage decreases primary dysmenorrhea and it can be used as an effective herbal drug. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2014

Abstract Title: Unraveling the Rat Intestine, Spleen and Liver Genome-Wide Transcriptome after the Oral Administration of Lavender Oil by a Two-Color Dye-Swap DNA Microarray Approach. Abstract Source: PLoS One. 2015 ;10(7):e0129951. Epub 2015 Jul 10. PMID: 26161641 Abstract Author(s): Hiroko Kubo, Junko Shibato, Tomomi Saito, Tetsuo Ogawa, Randeep Rakwal, Seiji Shioda Article Affiliation: Hiroko Kubo Abstract: The use of lavender oil (LO) - a commonly, used oil in aromatherapy, with well-defined volatile components linalool and linalyl acetate - in non-traditional medicine is increasing globally. To understand and demonstrate the potential positive effects of LO on the body, we have established an animal model in this current study, investigating the orally administered LO effects genome wide in the rat small intestine, spleen, and liver. The rats were administered LO at 5 mg/kg (usual therapeutic dose in humans) followed by the screening of differentially expressed genes in the tissues, using a 4×44-K whole-genome rat chip (Agilent microarray platform; Agilent Technologies, Palo Alto, CA, USA) in conjunction with a dye-swap approach, a novelty of this study. Fourteen days after LO treatment and compared with a control group (sham), a total of 156 and 154 up (≧ 1.5-fold)- and down (≦ 0.75-fold)-regulated genes, 174 and 66 up- (≧ 1.5-fold)- and down (≦ 0.75-fold)-regulated genes, and 222 and 322 up- (≧ 1.5-fold)- and down (≦ 0.75-fold)-regulated genes showed differential expression at the mRNA level in the small intestine, spleen and liver, respectively. The reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) validation of highly up- and down-regulated genes confirmed the regulation of the Papd4, Lrp1b, Alb, Cyr61, Cyp2c, and Cxcl1 genes by LO as examples in these tissues. Using bioinformatics, including Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), differentially expressedgenes were functionally categorized by their Gene Ontology (GO) and biological function and network analysis, revealing their diverse functions and potential roles in LO-mediated effects in rat. Further IPA analysis in particular unraveled the presence of novel genes, such as Papd4, Or8k5, Gprc5b, Taar5, Trpc6, Pld2 and Onecut3 (up-regulated top molecules) and Tnf, Slc45a4, Slc25a23 and Samt4 (down-regulated top molecules), to be influenced by LO treatment in the small intestine, spleen and liver, respectively. These results are the first such inventory of genes that are affected by lavender essential oil (LO) in an animal model, forming the basis for further in-depth bioinformatics and functional analyses and investigation. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2014

Abstract Title: A question of scent: lavender aroma promotes interpersonal trust. Abstract Source: Front Psychol. 2014 ;5:1486. Epub 2015 Jan 13. PMID: 25628577 Abstract Author(s): Roberta Sellaro, Wilco W van Dijk, Claudia Rossi Paccani, Bernhard Hommel, Lorenza S Colzato Article Affiliation: Roberta Sellaro Abstract: A previous study has shown that the degree of trust into others might be biased by inducing either a more"inclusive"or a more"exclusive"cognitive-control mode. Here, we investigated whether the degree of interpersonal trust can be biased by environmental factors, such as odors, that are likely to impact cognitive-control states. Arousing olfactory fragrances (e.g., peppermint) are supposed to induce a more exclusive, and calming olfactory fragrances (e.g., lavender) a more inclusive state. Participants performed the Trust Game, which provides an index of interpersonal trust by assessing the money units one participant (the trustor) transfers to another participant (the trustee), while being exposed to either peppermint or lavender aroma. All participants played the role of trustor. As expected, participants transferred significantly more money to the alleged trustee in the lavender as compared to the peppermint and control (no aroma) conditions. This observation might have various serious implications for a broad range of situations in which interpersonal trust is an essential element, such as cooperation (e.g., mixed-motives situations), bargaining and negotiation, consumer behavior, and group performance. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2013

Abstract Title: Aromatherapy as treatment for postoperative nausea: a randomized trial. Abstract Source: Anesth Analg. 2013 Sep ;117(3):597-604. Epub 2012 Mar 5. PMID: 22392970 Abstract Author(s): Ronald Hunt, Jacqueline Dienemann, H James Norton, Wendy Hartley, Amanda Hudgens, Thomas Stern, George Divine Article Affiliation: Ronald Hunt Abstract: BACKGROUND: Postoperative nausea (PON) is a common complication of anesthesia and surgery. Antiemetic medication for higher-risk patients may reduce but does not reliably prevent PON. We examined aromatherapy as a treatment for patients experiencing PON after ambulatory surgery. Our primary hypothesis was that in comparison with inhaling a placebo, PON will be reduced significantly by aromatherapy with (1) essential oil of ginger, (2) a blend of essential oils of ginger, spearmint, peppermint, and cardamom, or (3) isopropyl alcohol. Our secondary hypothesis was that the effectiveness of aromatherapy will depend upon the agent used. METHODS: A randomized trial of aromatherapy with patients who reported nausea in the postanesthesia care unit was conducted at one ambulatory surgical center. Eligibility criteria were adult, able to give consent, and no history of coagulation problems or allergy to the aromatherapy agents. Before surgery, demographic and risk factors were collected. Patients with a nausea level of 1 to 3 on a verbal descriptive scale (0-3) received a gauze pad saturated with a randomly chosen aromatherapy agent and were told to inhale deeply 3 times; nausea (0-3) was then measured again in 5 minutes. Prophylactic and postnausea antiemetics were given as ordered by physicians or as requested by the patient. RESULTS: A total of 1151 subjects were screened for inclusion; 303 subjects reporting nausea were enrolled (26.3%), and 301 meeting protocol were analyzed (26.2%). The change in nausea level was significant for the blend (P<0.001) and ginger (P = 0.002) versus saline but not for alcohol (P<0.76). The number of antiemetic medications requested after aromatherapy was also significantly reduced with ginger or blend aromatherapy versus saline (P = 0.002 and P<0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: The hypothesis that aromatherapy would be effective as a treatment for PON was supported. On the basis of our results, future research further evaluating aromatherapy is warranted. Aromatherapy is promising as an inexpensive, noninvasive treatment for PON that can be administered and controlled by patients as needed. Article Published Date : Aug 31, 2013

Abstract Title: The effects of aromatherapy on nicotine craving on a U.S. campus: a small comparison study. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2013 Aug ;19(8):709-13. Epub 2013 Mar 28. PMID: 23536963 Abstract Author(s): Barbara Cordell, Jane Buckle Article Affiliation: Barbara Cordell Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of two inhaled essential oils (black pepper or angelica) on the nicotine habits of students, staff, and faculty on a U.S. college campus. DESIGN: Comparative study with pre-/post-test measures. SETTING: Community college in rural East Texas. PARTICIPANTS: Convenience sample of 20 volunteers from the college community (students, faculty, and staff) who were regular (daily) users of nicotine (cigarettes, snuff, or chewing tobacco). INTERVENTIONS: Inhalation of one drop of essential oil on a tissue for 2 minutes when participant was craving nicotine. OUTCOME MEASURES: (1) Pre-inhalation journal recording of self-assessed level of craving for nicotine on a 0-10 scale, (2) post-inhalation journal recording of self-assessed level of craving for nicotine on a 0-10 scale, and (3) minutes that participant waited from start of inhalation until next use of tobacco. RESULTS: Both black pepper and angelica reduced the level of nicotine craving and allowed a longer delay before next use of tobacco. However, black pepper reduced the level of craving more than did angelica, and angelica allowed for a longer delay than did black pepper. CONCLUSIONS: Aromatherapy may be useful in nicotine withdrawal. Further studies are warranted. Article Published Date : Jul 31, 2013

Abstract Title: The effect of aromatherapy abdominal massage on alleviating menstrual pain in nursing students: a prospective randomized cross-over study. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013 ;2013:742421. Epub 2013 Apr 11. PMID: 23662151 Abstract Author(s): Tyseer M F Marzouk, Amina M R El-Nemer, Hany N Baraka Article Affiliation: Department of Maternity and Gynecology of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt. Abstract: Dysmenorrhea is a common cause of sickness absenteeism from both classes and work. This study investigated the effect of aromatherapy massage on a group of nursing students who are suffering of primary dysmenorrhea. A randomized blind clinical trial of crossover design was used. In the first treatment phase, group 1 (n = 48) received aromatherapy abdominal massage once daily for seven days prior to menstruation using the essential oils (cinnamon, clove, rose, and lavender in a base of almond oil). Group 2 (n = 47) received the same intervention but with placebo oil (almond oil). In the second treatment phase, the two groups switched to alternate regimen. Level and duration of pain and the amount of menstrual bleeding were evaluated at the baseline and after each treatment phase. During both treatment phases, the level and duration of menstrual pain and the amount of menstrual bleeding were significantly lower in the aromatherapy group than in the placebo group. These results suggests that aromatherapy is effective in alleviating menstrual pain, its duration and excessive menstrual bleeding. Aromatherapy can be provided as a nonpharmacological pain relief measure and as a part of nursing care given to girls suffering of dysmenorrhea, or excessive menstrual bleeding. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2012

Abstract Title: Effect of Inhaled Essential Oils on Mental Exhaustion and Moderate Burnout: A Small Pilot Study. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2012 Nov 9. Epub 2012 Nov 9. PMID: 23140115 Abstract Author(s): Elizabeth Varney, Jane Buckle Article Affiliation: 1 Private Practice , Andover, MA. Abstract: Abstract Objectives: The objective of this pilot study was to determine the effectiveness of a mixture of essential oils (peppermint, basil, and helichrysum) on mental exhaustion, or moderate burnout (ME/MB) using a personal inhaler. Design: This was a randomized, controlled, double-blind pilot study. Data were collected 3 times a day for 3 weeks (Monday-Friday). The first week was baseline for both groups, the second week was intervention (aromatherapy or placebo), and the third week was washout. Settings/location: Participants used a personal inhaler at home or at work. Subjects: The subjects comprised a convenience sample of 13 women and 1 man who each had self-assessed ME/MB. Interventions: Participants were randomized to receive a personal inhaler containing either a mixture of essential oils or rose water (as used in Indian cooking). Outcome measures: The outcome measures were a 0-10 scale with 10=worst feeling of burnout, 0=no feeling of burnout. There was a qualitative questionnaire rating aroma and a questionnaire listing perceived stressors. Results: While both groups had a reduction in perception of ME/MB, the aromatherapy group had a much greater reduction. Conclusions: The results suggest that inhaling essential oils may reduce the perceived level of mental fatigue/burnout. Further research is warranted. Article Published Date : Nov 08, 2012

Abstract Title: Investigating the Effect of Aromatherapy in Patients With Renal Colic. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2012 Oct 16. Epub 2012 Oct 16. PMID: 23072267 Abstract Author(s): Murat Ayan, Ufuk Tas, Erkan Sogut, Mustafa Suren, Levent Gurbuzler, Feridun Koyuncu Article Affiliation: 1 Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziosmanpasa University , Tokat, Turkey . Abstract: Abstract Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the usefulness of rose essential oil as a supplementary and adjunctive therapy for the relief of renal colic, specifically because rose essential oil is soothing and can act as a muscle relaxant. Materials: Eighty patients who were diagnosed with renal colic in the emergency room were included in the study, with ages ranging from 19 to 64 years. Half of the patients (n=40) were treated with conventional therapy (diclofenac sodium, 75 mg intramuscularly) plus placebo (physiological serum, 0.9% NaCl), while the other half (n=40) were given aromatherapy (rose essential oil) in addition to conventional therapy. In each patient, the severity of pain was evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) (0 [no pain] to 10 [very severepain]). Findings: The VAS values prior to the start of therapy, and 10 and 30 minutes after therapy were 8.18±1.36, 5.60±2.02, and 3.75±2.08 for the conventional therapy plus placebo group, while for the conventional therapy plus aromatherapy group, the VAS values were 8.63±1.03, 4.25±1.72, and1.08±1.07, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the starting VAS values of the two groups, but the VAS values 10 or 30 minutes after the initiation of therapy were statistically lower in the group that received conventional therapy plus aromatherapy. Conclusion:This study demonstrated that rose essential oil therapy in addition to conventional therapy effectively reduces renal colic pain. Article Published Date : Oct 15, 2012

Abstract Title: Effect of sweet orange aroma on experimental anxiety in humans. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2012 Aug ;18(8):798-804. Epub 2012 Jul 31. PMID: 22849536 Abstract Author(s): Tiago Costa Goes, Fabrício Dias Antunes, Péricles Barreto Alves, Flavia Teixeira-Silva Article Affiliation: Departamento de Fisiologia, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, Sergipe, Brazil. Abstract: OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential anxiolytic effect of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) aroma in healthy volunteers submitted to an anxiogenic situation. DESIGN: Forty (40) male volunteers were allocated to five different groups for the inhalation of sweet orange essential oil (test aroma: 2.5, 5, or 10 drops), tea tree essential oil (control aroma: 2.5 drops), or water (nonaromatic control: 2.5 drops). Immediately after inhalation, each volunteer was submitted to a model of anxiety, the video-monitored version of the Stroop Color-Word Test (SCWT). OUTCOME MEASURES: Psychologic parameters (state-anxiety, subjective tension, tranquilization, and sedation) and physiologic parameters (heart rate and gastrocnemius electromyogram) were evaluated before the inhalation period and before, during, and after the SCWT. RESULTS: Unlike the control groups, the individuals exposed to the test aroma (2.5 and 10 drops) presented a lack of significant alterations (p>0.05) in state-anxiety, subjective tension and tranquillity levels throughout the anxiogenic situation, revealing an anxiolytic activity of sweet orange essential oil. Physiologic alterations along the test were not prevented in any treatment group, as has previously been observed for diazepam. CONCLUSIONS: Although more studies are needed to find out the clinical relevance of aromatherapy for anxiety disorders, the present results indicate an acute anxiolytic activity of sweet orange aroma, giving some scientific support to its use as a tranquilizer by aromatherapists. Article Published Date : Jul 31, 2012

Abstract Title: Examination of the effectiveness of peppermint aromatherapy on nausea in women post C-section. Abstract Source: J Holist Nurs. 2012 Jun ;30(2):90-104; quiz 105-6. Epub 2011 Oct 27. PMID: 22034523 Abstract Author(s): Betty Lane, Kathi Cannella, Cathy Bowen, David Copelan, Grace Nteff, Katrina Barnes, Melanie Poudevigne, Jacqueline Lawson Article Affiliation: Clayton State University, Morrow, GA 30260, USA. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Abstract: PURPOSE: This study examined the effect of peppermint spirits on postoperative nausea in women following a scheduled C-section. DESIGN: A pretest-posttest research design with three groups was used. The peppermint group inhaled peppermint spirits, the placebo aromatherapy control group inhaled an inert placebo, green-colored sterile water, and the standard antiemetic therapy control group received standard antiemetics, usually intravenous ondansetron or promethazine suppositories. METHODS: Women were randomly assigned to a group on admission to the hospital. If they became nauseated, nurses on the mother-baby unit assessed their nausea (baseline), administered the assigned intervention, and then reassessed participants' nausea 2 and 5 minutes after the initial intervention. Participants rated their nausea using a 6-point nausea scale. FINDINGS: Thirty-five participants became nauseated post-operatively. Participants in all three intervention groups had similar levels of nausea at baseline. The nausea levels of participants in the peppermint spirits group were significantly lower than those of participants in the other two groups 2 and 5 minutes after the initial intervention. CONCLUSIONS: Peppermint spirits may be a useful adjunct in the treatment of postoperative nausea. This study should be replicated with more participants, using a variety of aromatherapies to treat nausea in participants with different preoperative diagnoses. Article Published Date : May 31, 2012

Abstract Title: The effectiveness of aromatherapy massage using lavender oil as a treatment for infantile colic. Abstract Source: Int J Nurs Pract. 2012 Apr ;18(2):164-9. PMID: 22435980 Abstract Author(s): Bengü Cetinkaya, Zümrüt Başbakkal Article Affiliation: Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatric Nursing, Pamukkale University Denizli School of Health, Denizli, Turkey Professor, Department of Pediatric Nursing, Ege University Faculty of Nursing,İzmir, Turkey. Abstract: Çetinkaya B, Başbakkal Z. International Journal of Nursing Practice, 2012; 18: 164-169 The effectiveness of aromatherapy massage using lavender oil as a treatment for infantile colic The aim of this paper was to investigate the effect of aromatherapy massage using lavender oil as a possible treatment for this condition. This research was carried out on a group of 40 infants between 2 and 6 weeks of age with a gestational age of 38-42 weeks and normal development and growth. All the infants weighed between 2500 and 4000 g at birth and all exhibited the signs of colic. Infants in the treatment group received abdominal massage by their mothers using lavender oil, while those in the control group were not subject to an intervention. The infants in both control and treatment groups were monitored once a week by the researchers, in total five times. The effect of the massage was measured in terms of changes in the length of time the infants cried per week. The use of aromatherapy massage using lavender oil was found to be effective in reducing the symptoms of colic. Article Published Date : Apr 01, 2012

Abstract Title: The effects of lavender oil inhalation on emotional states, autonomic nervous system, and brain electrical activity. Abstract Source: J Med Assoc Thai. 2012 Apr ;95(4):598-606. PMID: 22612017 Abstract Author(s): Winai Sayorwan, Vorasith Siripornpanich, Teerut Piriyapunyaporn, Tapanee Hongratanaworakit, Naiphinich Kotchabhakdi, Nijsiri Ruangrungsi Article Affiliation: College of Public Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Investigate the effects of lavender oil on the central nervous system, autonomic nervous system, and mood responses in humans after inhalation. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Twenty healthy volunteers participated in the experiments. The present study assessed autonomic parameters such as blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and skin temperature to determine the arousal level of the autonomic nervous system. In addition, subjects were asked to estimate their mood responses such as feeling pleasant or unpleasant, uncomfortable, sensuality, relaxation, or refreshing in order to assess subjective behavioral arousal. Finally, electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded from 31 electrodes on the scalp according to the international 10 to 20 system, and EEG power spectra were calculated by Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). Data was analyzed by comparing the effects of lavender oil on physiological and mood states with sweet almond oil. These assessments were measured before and after using paired t-test statistical procedure. RESULTS: The results revealed that lavender oil caused significant decreases of blood pressure, heart rate, and skin temperature, which indicated a decrease of autonomic arousal. In terms of mood responses, the subjects in the lavender oil group categorized themselves as more active, fresher relaxed than subjects just inhaling base oil. Compared with base oil, lavender oil increased the power of theta (4-8 Hz) and alpha (8-13 Hz) brain activities. The topographic map showed obviously more scattering power in alpha range waves particularly in bilateral temporal and central area. CONCLUSION: The findings provided evidence the relaxing effect of inhaling lavender oil. Article Published Date : Mar 31, 2012

Abstract Title: Non-food odorants reduce chocolate cravings. Abstract Source: Appetite. 2012 Mar 9. Epub 2012 Mar 9. PMID: 22407134 Abstract Author(s): Eva Kemps, Marika Tiggemann, Sarah Bettany Article Affiliation: School of Psychology, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia. Abstract: The present study compared the relative effectiveness of simple, commercially available food and non-food olfactory tasks on chocolate craving reduction. Chocolate cravings were induced by a series of coloured photographs and 67 undergraduate women were asked to smell one of three odours (green apple, jasmine, or water). The non-food odorant (jasmine) significantly reduced chocolate cravings relative to both the food and control odorants. Thus simple non-food odorants offer potential scope as a technique for curbing unwanted food cravings. Article Published Date : Mar 09, 2012

Abstract Title: The effect of lavender aromatherapy on autonomic nervous system in midlife women with insomnia. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012 ;2012:740813. Epub 2011 Aug 18. PMID: 21869900 Abstract Author(s): Li-Wei Chien, Su Li Cheng, Chi Feng Liu Article Affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. Abstract: The objective of this study is to determine the effects of 12 weeks of lavender aromatherapy on self-reported sleep and heart rate variability (HRV) in the midlife women with insomnia. Sixty-seven women aged 45-55 years, with a CPSQI (Chinese version of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) greater than 5, were recruited from communities in Taiwan. The experimental group (n = 34) received lavender inhalation, 20 min each time, twice per week, for 12 weeks, with a total of 24 times. The control group (n = 33) received health education program for sleep hygiene with no intervention. The study of HRV was analyzed by time- and frequency-domain methods. Significant decrease in mean heart rate (HR) and increases in SDNN (standard deviation of the normal-to-normal (NN) intervals), RMSDD (square root of the mean squared differences of successive NN intervals), and HF (high frequency) of spectral powers analysis after lavender inhalation were observed in the 4th and 12th weeks of aromatherapy. The total CPSQI score of study subjects was significantly decreased in the experimental group (P<0.001), while no significant difference was observed across the same time period (P = 0.776) in the control group. Resting HR and HRV measurements at baseline 1 month and 3 months after allocation showed no significant difference between the experimental and control groups. The study demonstrated that lavender inhalation may have a persistent short-term effect on HRV with an increase in parasympathetic modulation. Women receiving aromatherapy experienced a significant improvement in sleep quality after intervention. However, lavender aromatherapy does not appear to confer benefit on HRV in the long-term followup. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2012

Abstract Title: Aromatherapy massage on the abdomen for alleviating menstrual pain in high school girls: a preliminary controlled clinical study. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012 ;2012:187163. Epub 2011 Sep 22. PMID: 21949670 Abstract Author(s): Myung-Haeng Hur, Myeong Soo Lee, Ka-Yeon Seong, Mi-Kyoung Lee Article Affiliation: Department of Nursing, Eulji University, Daejeon 301-746, Republic of Korea. Abstract: This study investigated the alleviating effects of aromatherapy massage and acetaminophen on menstrual pain in Korean high school girls. Subjects were divided into two groups: the aromatherapy massage (treatment) group (n = 32) and the acetaminophen (control) group (n = 23). Aromatherapy massage was performed on subjects in the treatment group. The abdomen was massaged once using clary sage, marjoram, cinnamon, ginger, and geranium in a base of almond oil. The level of menstrual pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale at baseline and twenty-four hours afterward. The reduction of menstrual pain was significantly higher in the aromatherapy group than in the acetaminophen group. Using multiple regression, aromatherapy massage was found to be more highly associated with reduction in the level of menstrual pain than acetaminophen. These finding suggest that aromatherapy massage may be an effective treatment for menstrual pain in high school girls. However, it could not be verified whether the positive effects derived from the aromatherapy, the massage, or both. Further rigorous studies should be conducted using more objective measures. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2012

Abstract Title: Lavender essential oil in the treatment of migraine headache: a placebo-controlled clinical trial. Abstract Source: Eur Neurol. 2012 ;67(5):288-91. Epub 2012 Apr 17. PMID: 22517298 Abstract Author(s): Payam Sasannejad, Morteza Saeedi, Ali Shoeibi, Ali Gorji, Maryam Abbasi, Mohsen Foroughipour Article Affiliation: Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran. Abstract: Lavender essential oil has been used as an anxiolytic drug, a mood stabilizer, a sedative, spasmolytic, antihypertensive, antimicrobial, analgesic agent as well as a wound healing accelerator. We have studied for the first time the efficacy of lavender essential oil inhalation for the treatment of migraine in a placebo-controlled clinical trial. Methods: Forty-seven patients with definite diagnosis of migraine headache were divided into cases and controls. Cases inhaled lavender essential oil for 15 min, whereas the control group used liquid paraffin for the same time period. Patients were asked to record their headache severity and associated symptoms in 30-min intervals for a total of 2 h. We matched the two groups for key confounding factors. Results: The mean reduction of headache severity in cases was 3.6± 2.8 based on Visual Analogue Scale score. The reduction was 1.6 ± 1.6 in controls. This difference between the controls and cases was statistically significant with p<0.0001. From 129 headache attacks in cases, 92 responded entirely or partially to lavender. In the control group, 32 out of 68 recorded headache attacks responded to placebo. The percentage of responders was significantly higher in the lavender group than the placebo group (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The present study suggests that inhalation of lavender essential oil may be an effective and safe treatment modality in acute management of migraine headaches. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2011

Abstract Title: The effect of lavender oil on stress, bispectral index values, and needle insertion pain in volunteers. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2011 Sep ;17(9):823-6. Epub 2011 Aug 19. PMID: 21854199 Abstract Author(s): Sioh Kim, Hyun-Jae Kim, Jin-Seok Yeo, Sung-Jung Hong, Ji-Min Lee, Younghoon Jeon Article Affiliation: 1 Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University , Daegu, Korea. Abstract: Abstract Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether lavender oil aromatherapy can reduce the bispectral index (BIS) values and stress and decrease the pain of needle insertion in 30 volunteers. Subjects and methods: Thirty (30) healthy volunteers were randomly allocated to 2 groups: the experimental group received oxygen with a face mask coated with lavender oil for 5 minutes, and the control group received oxygen through a face mask with no lavender oil for 5 minutes. The stress level (0=no stress, 10=maximum stress), BIS value, and pain intensity of needle insertion (0=no pain, 10=worst pain imaginable) were measured. Results: There were no significant differences in age, sex, height, and weight between the two groups. Stress level, BIS value, and pain intensity of needle insertion before aromatherapy were similar between the two groups. However, the stress values (p<0.001) and BIS value (p<0.001) after aromatherapy were significantly reduced compared with the control. In addition, the pain intensity of needle insertion was significantly decreased after aromatherapy compared with the control (p<0.001). Conclusions: Lavender aromatherapy in volunteers provided a significant decrease in the stress levels and in the BIS values. In addition, it significantly reduced the pain intensity of needle insertion. Article Published Date : Sep 01, 2011

Abstract Title: Volatiles emitted from the leaves of Laurus nobilis L. improve vigilance performance in visual discrimination task. Abstract Source: Biomed Res. 2011;32(1):19-28. PMID: 21383507 Abstract Author(s): Eri Matsubara, Mio Fukagawa, Tsuyoshi Okamoto, Atsuko Fukuda, Chikako Hayashi, Koichiro Ohnuki, Kuniyoshi Shimizu, Ryuichiro Kondo Article Affiliation: Department of Agro-environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Japan. Abstract: The leaves of Laurus noblis L. (laurel) are mainly used as a spice in cooking, and the essential oil obtained by steam distillation of the leaves is used as an additive in foods, drugs and cosmetics. We investigated the effect of the volatiles emitted from the leaves of L. noblis at different doses (low-dose and high-dose groups) on vigilance performance in a visual discrimination task. By inhaling volatiles of the leaves of L. noblis, the decrease of the rate of true hits found in the control group was prevented in the low-dose group. The high-dose group showed higher scores than the low-dose group for subjective effects related to negative emotion. Meanwhile, both groups showed physiological effects suggesting stimulation of circulation. These findings suggest that the volatiles emitted from the leaves of L. noblis at low concentration could be utilized to maintain a high level of vigilance performance, such as the rate of true hits by improving physiological arousal without incurring the detrimental performance effects of negative emotion. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2011

Abstract Title: [The efficacy of the application of essential oils for the prevention of acute respiratory diseases in organized groups of children]. Abstract Source: Vestn Otorinolaringol. 2011(5):51-4. PMID: 22334926 Abstract Author(s): A V Kilina, M B Kolesnikova Abstract: The efficacy and safety of the application of essential oils for the prevention of acute respiratory diseases and alleviation of clinical manifestations of rhinitis was evaluated in a group of children aged 3-4 years. It was shown that inhalation of a mixture of essential oils resulted in a 42.5% decrease of the prevalence of the above pathologies. Specifically, they developed only in each third child from the group of frequently ill children. No side effects of the treatment were documented. 25% of the children suffered only from mild acute respiratory diseases, fever was absent in 5%. The severity and duration of the symptoms of rhinitis decreased in more than 80% of the children. Simultaneously, the requirement of decongestants and local (intranasal) antibiotics was reduced. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2010

Abstract Title: Coconut fragrance and cardiovascular response to laboratory stress: results of pilot testing. Abstract Source: Holist Nurs Pract. 2010 Nov-Dec;24(6):322-32. PMID: 21037456 Abstract Author(s): Elizabeth Sibolboro Mezzacappa, Uma Arumugam, Sylvia Yue Chen, Traci R Stein, Mehmet Oz, Jane Buckle Article Affiliation: Elizabeth Sibolboro Mezzacappa Abstract: There is preliminary evidence that pleasant fragrances may alter response to stressors in different settings. This pilot study examined the effect of coconut fragrance on cardiovascular response to standard laboratory stressors. While inhaling coconut fragrance (n = 17) or air (n = 15), subjects performed a Stroop color-word task and a mental arithmetic task. Heart rate (HR), heart period variability (HPV) and blood pressure were measured during the 5-minute baseline, the task, and the recovery periods. The results indicated that subjects breathing coconut fragrance had higher HR and lower HPV than those who performed tasks while breathing air. HR response to mental arithmetic seemed to be blunted in the subjects breathing coconut; however, the lack of a difference in HPV seems to indicate that the blunting may be due to decreased sympathetic response, not decreased parasympathetic withdrawal under stress. Blood pressure recovery was slightly enhanced in subjects under coconut fragrance. Thus, the results of this pilot test suggest that coconut fragrance may alter cardiovascular activity both at rest and in response to stressors. Future experimentation should attempt to replicate and extend these findings in larger samples in clinical settings. Article Published Date : Oct 31, 2010

Abstract Title: [Effects of aromatherapy on changes in the autonomic nervous system, aortic pulse wave velocity and aortic augmentation index in patients with essential hypertension]. Abstract Source: J Korean Acad Nurs. 2010 Oct;40(5):705-13. PMID: 21157172 Abstract Author(s): Jung Hee Cha, Sun Hee Lee, Yang Sook Yoo Article Affiliation: Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea. Abstract: PURPOSE: To investigate the effectiveness of aromatherapy on blood pressure, heart rate variability, aortic pulse wave velocity and the aortic augmentation index of essential hypertensive patients. METHODS: Using a coin toss, 22 participants were assigned to the experimental group and 20 to the control. The experimental group was given a blend of oils of lemon (Citrus limonum), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), and ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) which were prepared in the ratio of 2:2:1, respectively. The control group was given an artificial lemon fragrance of Limonene (35 cc) and Citral (15 cc) mixture. The experiment, inhalation, was conducted for 3 weeks (2 min per inhalation, 2 times per day) to both groups. RESULTS: There was a noticeable difference in systolic blood pressure between the groups (p=.001), however the difference in diastolic blood pressure between the two groups was not significant. There was a notable difference in sympathetic nerve system activity of heart rate variability (p=.047). However, the differences in aortic pulse wave velocity or the aortic augmentation index were not significant. CONCLUSION: Aromatherapy is effective in lowering systolic blood pressure and sympathetic nerve system activity. Article Published Date : Oct 01, 2010

Abstract Title: A systematic review on the anxiolytic effects of aromatherapy on rodents under experimentally induced anxiety models. Abstract Source: Rev Neurosci. 2010;21(2):141-52. PMID: 20614803 Abstract Author(s): Hector W H Tsang, Timothy Y C Ho Article Affiliation: Neuropsychiatric Rehabilitation Laboratory, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Honk Kong. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Abstract: PURPOSE: We reviewed studies from 1999 to 2009 on anxiolytic effects of different essential oils toward rodents in anxiety-related behavioral models. METHOD: Journal papers that evaluated the anxiolytic effects of essential oils for rodents were extracted from available electronic data bases. RESULTS: The results based on 14 studies showed that different rodent species were recruited including ICR mice and Swiss mice. Most of studies applied the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) as the animal behavioral model. Lavender oil was the most popular within the 14 studies. Lavender and rose oils were found to be effective in some of the studies. Only one study reported the underlying neurophysiological mechanism in terms of concentrations of emotionally related neuro-transmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and their derivatives, in various brain regions. CONCLUSION: Some essential oils are found to be effective to induce anxiolytic effect in rodents under different animal anxiety models. However, more standardized experimental procedures and outcome measures are needed in future studies. Translational research to human subjects is also recommended. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2010

Abstract Title: The study protocol of a blinded randomised-controlled cross-over trial of lavender oil as a treatment of behavioural symptoms in dementia. Abstract Source: BMC Geriatr. 2010 ;10:49. Epub 2010 Jul 22. PMID: 20649945 Abstract Author(s): Eva S van der Ploeg, Barbara Eppingstall, Daniel W O'Connor Article Affiliation: Aged Mental Health Research Unit, Monash University, Kingston Centre, Warrigal Road, Cheltenham, Melbourne, VIC 3192, Australia. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Abstract: BACKGROUND: The agitated behaviours that accompany dementia (e.g. pacing, aggression, calling out) are stressful to both nursing home residents and their carers and are difficult to treat. Increasingly more attention is being paid to alternative interventions that are associated with fewer risks than pharmacology. Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) has been thought, for centuries, to have soothing properties, but the existing evidence is limited and shows mixed results. The aim of the current study is to test the effectiveness of topically applied pure lavender oil in reducing actual counts of challenging behaviours in nursing home residents. METHODS/DESIGN: We will use a blinded repeated measures design with random cross-over between lavender oil and placebo oil. Persons with moderate to severe dementia and associated behavioural problems living in aged care facilities will be included in the study. Consented, willing participants will be assigned in random order to lavender or placebo blocks for one week then switched to the other condition for the following week. In each week the oils will be applied on three days with at least a two-day wash out period between conditions. Trained observers will note presence of target behaviours and predominant type of affect displayed during the 30 minutes before and the 60 minutes after application of the oil. Nursing staff will apply 1 ml of 30% high strength essential lavender oil to reduce the risk of missing a true effect through under-dosing. The placebo will comprise of jojoba oil only. The oils will be identical in appearance and texture, but can easily be identified by smell. For blinding purposes, all staff involved in applying the oil or observing the resident will apply a masking cream containing a mixture of lavender and other essential oils to their upper lip. In addition, nursing staff will wear a nose clip during the few minutes it takes to massage the oil to the resident's forearms. DISCUSSION: If our results show that the use of lavender oil is effective in reducing challenging behaviours in individuals with dementia, it will potentially provide a safer intervention rather than reliance on pharmacology alone. The study's findings will translate easily to other countries and cultures. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry - ACTRN 12609000569202. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2009

Abstract Title: Effect of aromatherapy on patients with Alzheimer's disease. Abstract Source: Psychogeriatrics. 2009 Dec ;9(4):173-9. PMID: 20377818 Abstract Author(s): Daiki Jimbo, Yuki Kimura, Miyako Taniguchi, Masashi Inoue, Katsuya Urakami Article Affiliation: Department of Biological Regulation, School of Health Science, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago, Japan. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Recently, the importance of non-pharmacological therapies for dementia has come to the fore. In the present study, we examined the curative effects of aromatherapy in dementia in 28 elderly people, 17 of whom had Alzheimer's disease (AD). METHODS: After a control period of 28 days, aromatherapy was performed over the following 28 days, with a wash out period of another 28 days. Aromatherapy consisted of the use of rosemary and lemon essential oils in the morning, and lavender and orange in the evening. To determine the effects of aromatherapy, patients were evaluated using the Japanese version of the Gottfries, Brane, Steen scale (GBSS-J), Functional Assessment Staging of Alzheimer's disease (FAST), a revised version of Hasegawa's Dementia Scale (HDS-R), and the Touch Panel-type Dementia Assessment Scale (TDAS) four times: before the control period, after the control period, after aromatherapy, and after the washout period. RESULTS: All patients showed significant improvement in personal orientation related to cognitive function on both the GBSS-J and TDAS after therapy. In particular, patients with AD showed significant improvement in total TDAS scores. Result of routine laboratory tests showed no significant changes, suggesting that there were no side-effects associated with the use of aromatherapy. Results from Zarit's score showed no significant changes, suggesting that caregivers had no effect on the improved patient scores seen in the other tests. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, we found aromatherapy an efficacious non-pharmacological therapy for dementia. Aromatherapy may have some potential for improving cognitive function, especially in AD patients. Article Published Date : Nov 30, 2009

Abstract Title: Effectiveness of the essential oils lavender and ginger in promoting children's comfort in a perianesthesia setting. Abstract Source: J Perianesth Nurs. 2009 Oct;24(5):307-12. PMID: 19853815 Abstract Author(s): DeeAnn Nord, John Belew Article Affiliation: Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare, St Paul, MN 55101, USA. Abstract: This randomized, controlled, blinded study examined the effectiveness of an aromatherapy intervention on the reduction of children's distress in a perianesthesia setting. The sample included children with and without developmental disabilities (n = 94). Subjects in the intervention group received an aromatherapy intervention of lavender and ginger essential oils. The control group received a placebo intervention of jojoba oil. Distress was measured at two times: before induction and in the PACU, using the Faces, Legs, Arms, Cry and Consolability (FLACC) scale. The mean distress level was lower for the children in the essential oil group, but the effect was not statistically significant (P = .055). Parents' responses to survey questions about satisfaction with aromatherapy did not differ between groups, although open-ended comments indicated a more positive opinion of the benefits of the intervention in the aromatherapy group. Article Published Date : Oct 01, 2009

Abstract Title: The calming effect of a maternal breast milk odor on the human newborn infant. Abstract Source: Meat Sci. 2009 Jun 16. Epub 2009 Jun 16. PMID: 19010360 Abstract Author(s): Shota Nishitani, Tsunetake Miyamura, Masato Tagawa, Muneichiro Sumi, Ryuta Takase, Hirokazu Doi, Hiroyuki Moriuchi, Kazuyuki Shinohara Article Affiliation: Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Unit of Basic Medical Sciences, Course of Medical and Dental Sciences, Nagasaki University, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8523, Japan. Abstract: We examined the effects of the odors from mother's milk, other mother's milk and formula milk on pain responses in newborns undergoing routine heelsticks. Forty-eight healthy infants were assigned to four groups, an own mother's breast milk odor group (Own MM), another mother's breast milk odor group (Other MM), a formula milk odor group (Formula M) and a control group. To assess infant distress in response to the heelsticks, their crying, grimacing and motor activities were recorded during the experiment as behavioral indices of the pain response. After the heelstick, the behavioral indices of the Own MM group were lower than those of other groups. By contrast, the Other MM and Formula M groups showed no significant changes compared with the Control group. We also measured salivary cortisol concentration as a biochemical index in Control and Own MM infants before and after heelstick. After the heelstick, the level of salivary cortisol was significantly increased in Control infants, but not in Own MM infants. These results suggest that pain is relieved in human newborns when they are exposed to odors from their mother's milk. Article Published Date : Jun 16, 2009

Abstract Title: Relaxing effect of rose oil on humans. Abstract Source: Nat Prod Commun. 2009 Feb;4(2):291-6. PMID: 19370942 Abstract Author(s): Tapanee Hongratanaworakit Abstract: One increasingly popular type of alternative therapy is aromatherapy, but scientific validation in this field is still rare. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of rose oil (Rosa damascena Mill, Rosaceae) on human autonomic parameters and emotional responses in healthy subjects after transdermal absorption. In order to exclude any olfactory stimulation the inhalation of the fragrances was prevented by breathing masks. Forty healthy volunteers participated in the experiments. Five autonomic parameters, i.e. blood pressure, breathing rate, blood oxygen saturation, pulse rate, and skin temperature, were recorded. Emotional responses were assessed by means of rating scales. Compared to placebo, rose oil caused significant decreases of breathing rate, blood oxygen saturation and systolic blood pressure, which indicate a decrease of autonomic arousal. At the emotional level, subjects in the rose oil group rated themselves as more calm, more relaxed and less alert than subjects in the control group. These findings are likely to represent a relaxing effect of the rose oil and provide some evidence for the use of rose oil in aromatherapy, such as causing relief of depression and stress in humans. Article Published Date : Feb 01, 2009

Abstract Title: Effects of music and essential oil inhalation on cardiac autonomic balance in healthy individuals. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2009 Jan;15(1):53-7. PMID: 19769477 Abstract Author(s): Shu-Ming Peng, Malcolm Koo, Zer-Ran Yu Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of listening to soft music or inhaling Citrus bergamia aroma on autonomic nervous system activity in young healthy individuals. STUDY DESIGN, LOCATION, AND SUBJECTS: This single-institution study was an open-label randomized controlled trial carried out on 114 healthy undergraduate students at a university located in south Taiwan. INTERVENTION: Participants were randomly allocated to one of four study groups including (1) a music group, (2) an aroma group, (3) a combined music and aroma group, and (4) a control group. Participants in the music group were asked to listen to preselected soft music for 15 minutes, and those in the aroma group were asked to inhale Citrus bergamia essential oil vapor generated from an ultrasonic atomizer for 15 minutes. OUTCOME MEASURE: The outcome measure involved heart rate variability (HRV) indices measured before and after the intervention. The low frequency (LF) and high frequency (HF) components of the HRV were used to quantify modulation of the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system. RESULTS: The percentage changes of normalized LF (p = 0.003), normalized HF (p = 0.001), and the ratio of LF to HF (p < 0.001) were significantly different among the four groups. Tukey's post hoc analysis revealed that the percentage change of normalized LF and HF were significantly different between the control group and the music group. For the percentage change of the ratio of LF to HF, the negative change in the music group, the aroma group, and the combined group was significantly different from that of the increase in the control group. In addition, no significant differences were found in the percentage changes in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and mean heart rate in the four groups. CONCLUSIONS: Listening to soft music and inhaling Citrus bergamia essential oil was found to be an effective method of relaxation, as indicated by a shift of the autonomic balance toward parasympathetic activity in young healthy individuals. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2009

Abstract Title: Effect of lavender aroma on salivary endocrinological stress markers. Abstract Source: Arch Oral Biol. 2008 Oct;53(10):964-8. Epub 2008 Jul 16. PMID: 18635155 Abstract Author(s): Masahiro Toda, Kanehisa Morimoto Abstract: OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the stress relief effect of lavender aroma by measuring sensitive salivary endocrinological stress markers, cortisol and chromogranin A (CgA). DESIGN: Thirty healthy students performed a serial arithmetic task for 10min and then rested for 10min. During the resting period, 16 students (aroma group) were exposed to airborne organic essential oil of lavender. Saliva samples were collected immediately before and after the arithmetic task, and at 5 and 10min after that. Salivary cortisol and CgA levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: In the aroma group, levels of CgA that had been elevated at the end of the arithmetic task were statistically significantly lower 10min later. The control group showed no such change. During the protocol, no statistically significant changes in levels of cortisol were detected in either the aroma group or the control group. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that lavender aroma has a stress relief effect. Article Published Date : Oct 01, 2008

Abstract Title: Relaxation effects of lavender aromatherapy improve coronary flow velocity reserve in healthy men evaluated by transthoracic Doppler echocardiography. Abstract Source: Int J Cardiol. 2008 Sep 26;129(2):193-7. Epub 2007 Aug 8. PMID: 17689755 Abstract Author(s): Yumi Shiina, Nobusada Funabashi, Kwangho Lee, Tomohiko Toyoda, Tai Sekine, Sachiko Honjo, Rei Hasegawa, Takayuki Kawata, Yu Wakatsuki, Shinichiro Hayashi, Shio Murakami, Kazuo Koike, Masao Daimon, Issei Komuro Abstract: PURPOSE: It has been reported that mental stress is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events and impairs coronary circulation. Lavender aromatherapy, one of the most popular complementary treatments, is recognized as a beneficial mental relaxation therapy. However, no study has examined the effect of this therapy on coronary circulation. We aimed to assess the effect of lavender aromatherapy on coronary circulation by measuring coronary flow velocity reserve (CFVR) with noninvasive transthoracic Doppler echocardiography (TTDE). MATERIAL AND METHODS: We enrolled 30 young healthy men (mean age 34+/-4.7 years, range 24-40 years). Coronary flow velocities in the left anterior descending coronary artery were recorded by TTDE at rest and during hyperemia induced with an intravenous infusion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). CFVR was calculated as the ratio of hyperemic to basal mean diastolic flow velocity. CFVR was assessed at baseline and immediately after lavender aromatherapy (four drops of essential oil diluted with 20 ml of hot water and inhaled for 30 min). Simultaneously, serum cortisol was measured as a marker of stress hormones. To exclude the relaxation effects of rest, the same measurements were repeated in the same volunteers without aromatherapy as a control study. RESULTS: CFVR measurements were obtained in all volunteers (100%). Blood pressure and heart rate responses to ATP infusion were not affected by lavender aromatherapy. Serum cortisol significantly decreased after lavender aromatherapy (8.4+/-3.6 to 6.3+/-3.3, p<0.05), but remained unchanged in controls (9.1+/-3.5 to 8.1+/-3.9, p=ns). In addition, CFVR significantly increased after lavender aromatherapy (3.8+/-0.87 to 4.7+/-0.90, p<0.001), but not in controls (3.9+/-0.8 to 3.9+/-0.8, p=ns). CONCLUSIONS: Lavender aromatherapy reduced serum cortisol and improved CFVR in healthy men. These findings suggest that lavender aromatherapy has relaxation effects and may have beneficial acute effects on coronary circulation. Article Published Date : Sep 26, 2008

Abstract Title: Lavender bath oil reduces stress and crying and enhances sleep in very young infants. Abstract Source: Early Hum Dev. 2008 Jun ;84(6):399-401. Epub 2007 Nov 28. PMID: 18053656 Abstract Author(s): Tiffany Field, Tory Field, Christy Cullen, Shay Largie, Miguel Diego, Saul Schanberg, Cynthia Kuhn Article Affiliation: Touch Research Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33101, USA. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Abstract: Very young infants were given a bath with or without lavender-scented bath oil. The mothers in the lavender bath oil group were more relaxed, smiled and touched their infants more during the bath. Their infants looked at them a greater percentage of the bath time and cried less and spent more time in deep sleep after bath. The cortisol levels of this group of mothers and infants significantly decreased, confirming the behavioral data showing increased relaxation of the mothers and their infants. These findings support a body of research showing the relaxing and sleep-inducing properties of lavender aroma. Article Published Date : Jun 01, 2008

Abstract Title: Smelling lavender and rosemary increases free radical scavenging activity and decreases cortisol level in saliva. Abstract Source: Psychiatry Res. 2007 Feb 28;150(1):89-96. Epub 2007 Feb 7. PMID: 17291597 Abstract Author(s): Toshiko Atsumi, Keiichi Tonosaki Abstract: Free radicals/reactive oxygen species are related to many biological phenomena such as inflammation, aging, and carcinogenesis. The body possesses various antioxidative systems (free radical scavenging activity, FRSA) for preventing oxidative stress, and saliva contains such activity. In the present study, we measured the total salivary FRSA induced after the smelling of lavender and rosemary essential oils that are widely used in aromatherapy. Various physiologically active substances in saliva such as cortisol, secretory IgA, and alpha-amylase activity were found to be correlated with aroma-induced FRSA. The subjects (22 healthy volunteers) sniffed aroma for 5 min, and each subject's saliva was collected immediately. FRSA was measured using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl. The FRSA values were increased by stimulation with low concentrations (1000 times dilution) of lavender or by high-concentrations (10 times dilution) of rosemary. In contrast, both lavender and rosemary stimulations decreased cortisol levels. A significant inverse correlation was observed between the FRSA values and the cortisol levels with each concentration of rosemary stimulation. No significant changes were noted in sIgA or alpha-amylase. These findings clarify that lavender and rosemary enhance FRSA and decrease the stress hormone, cortisol, which protects the body from oxidative stress. Article Published Date : Feb 28, 2007

Abstract Title: [Aromatic trees and herbs that connect Heaven and earth]. Abstract Source: Yakushigaku Zasshi. 2007;42(2):122-30. PMID: 18548886 Abstract Author(s): Shigeru Sugiyama Article Affiliation: Kainos Laboratories Inc., 38-18 Hongo, 2-chome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033. Abstract: It has been known for a long time that aromatic substances (essential oils) contained in plants often exert psychological effects ranging from sedative to excitatory actions. Medicinal effects have also been confirmed through numerous experiences. In ancient times, aromatic trees and herbs were offered to deities, mostly as incenses that were believed to carry people's wishes, such as requests to cure sick people, to Heaven. In the medieval periods, their deep and subtle aromas elevated aromatics to so-called "treasures of the world," while their various medicinal activities including the psychological effects made them useful as treatment measures. Demands for aromatics in our time as raw materials for cosmetics far outweigh those as medicines. The market for aromatics, however, has become virtually non-existent, as the popularity of synthetic aromatics for cosmetics grew. In West Asia, olibanum and myrrh were highly regarded both as incense and analgesics for tooth pain. In India, sandalwood was prized as incense, and sometimes as an antidote for poisonous snakebites. In China and Japan, agalloch (Kyara is agalloch of the highest quality) was considered the most significant of the aromatics. Agalloch and many other aromatics were in possession of the Emperor's family in 8th century Japan; some of which are kept in Nara to this day. Olfactory sense is ultimately identified in the olfactory area of the frontal lobe of the human brain. When stimuli reach the olfactory area, they also affect other cells such as those around the hypothalamus when they go through it. The hypothalamus is the center of instinctive behaviors with the centers for appetite, sexuality, blood pressure and thirst, and greatly affects the psychological side of the human behavior with its delicate connection to the autonomic nerve system. It therefore may not be surprising that aromatics were often used in medicine, which once had close ties with shamanism, animism and other religious activities. Aromatics smokes that connected people on the earth with deities in Heaven healed people's mind, sometimes curing illness through what is now called aromatherapy. In fact, such use of aromatics is still practiced in China, where aromatics are highly regarded as treatment agents. There have also been reports of aromatics being used for psychological and mental disorders. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2007

Abstract Title: [The effects of the inhalation method using essential oils on blood pressure and stress responses of clients with essential hypertension]. Abstract Source: Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi. 2006 Dec;36(7):1123-34. PMID: 17211115 Abstract Author(s): Jin-Hee Hwang Abstract: PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of aromatherapy on blood pressure and stress responses of clients with essential hypertension. METHOD: There were fifty-two subjects divided into an essential oil group, placebo group, and control group by random assignment. The application of aromatherapy was the inhalation method of blending oils with lavender, ylangylang, and bergamot once daily for 4 weeks. To evaluate the effects of aromatherapy, blood pressure and pulse were measured two times a week and serum cortisol levels, catecholamine levels, subjective stress, and state anxiety were measured before and after treatment in the three groups. Data was analyzed by repeated measures of ANOVA, one-way ANOVA, and chi(2)-test using the SPSS 10.0 program. RESULTS: The blood pressure, pulse, subjective stress, state anxiety, and serum cortisol levels among the three groups were significantly statistically different. The differences of catecholamine among the three groups were not significant statistically. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the inhalation method using essential oils can be considered an effective nursing intervention that reduces psychological stress responses and serum cortisol levels, as well as the blood pressure of clients with essential hypertension. Article Published Date : Dec 01, 2006

Abstract Title: Relaxing effect of ylang ylang oil on humans after transdermal absorption. Abstract Source: Phytother Res. 2006 Sep;20(9):758-63. PMID: 16807875 Abstract Author(s): Tapanee Hongratanaworakit, Gerhard Buchbauer Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ylang ylang oil (Cananga odorata, Annonaceae) on human physiological parameters and self-evaluation after transdermal absorption. Forty healthy volunteers participated in the experiments. Physiological parameters recorded were skin temperature, pulse rate, breathing rate and blood pressure. Self-evaluation was assessed by means of visual analog scales (VAS). The ylang ylang oil caused a significant decrease of blood pressure and a significant increase of skin temperature. At the behavioral level, subjects in the ylang ylang oil group rated themselves more calm and more relaxed than subjects in the control group. These findings are likely to represent a relaxing effect of the ylang ylang oil and provide some evidence for the usage of the ylang ylang oil in aromatherapy such as causing a relief of depression and stress in humans. Copyright (c) 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Article Published Date : Sep 01, 2006

Abstract Title: Effect of aromatherapy on symptoms of dysmenorrhea in college students: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2006 Jul-Aug;12(6):535-41. PMID: 16884344 Abstract Author(s): Sun-Hee Han, Myung-Haeng Hur, Jane Buckle, Jeeyae Choi, Myeong Soo Lee Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of aromatherapy on menstrual cramps and symptoms of dysmenorrhea. DESIGN: The study was a randomized placebo-controlled trial. SUBJECTS: The subjects were 67 female college students who rated their menstrual cramps to be greater than 6 on a 10-point visual analogue scale, who had no systemic or reproductive diseases, and who did not use contraceptive drugs. INTERVENTION: Subjects were randomized into three groups: (1) an experimental group (n = 25) who received aromatherapy, (2) a placebo group (n = 20), and (3) a control group (n = 22). Aromatherapy was applied topically to the experimental group in the form of an abdominal massage using two drops of lavender (Lavandula officinalis), one drop of clary sage (Salvia sclarea), and one drop of rose (Rosa centifolia) in 5 cc of almond oil. The placebo group received the same treatment but with almond oil only, and the control group received no treatment. OUTCOME MEASURES: The menstrual cramps levels was assessed using a visual analogue scale and severity of dysmenorrhea was measured with a verbal multidimensional scoring system. RESULTS: The menstrual cramps were significantly lowered in the aromatherapy group than in the other two groups at both post-test time points (first and second day of menstruation after treatment). From the multiple regression aromatherapy was found to be associated with the changes in menstrual cramp levels (first day: Beta = -2.48, 95% CI: -3.68 to -1.29, p < 0.001; second day: Beta = -1.97, 95% CI: -3.66 to -0.29, p = 0.02 and the severity of dysmenorrhea (first day: Beta = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.57, p = 0.02; second day: Beta = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.56, p = 0.006) than that found in the other two groups. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that aromatherapy using topically applied lavender, clary sage, and rose is effective in decreasing the severity of menstrual cramps. Aromatherapy can be offered as part of the nursing care to women experiencing menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea. Article Published Date : Jul 01, 2006

Abstract Title: An experimental study on the effectiveness of massage with aromatic ginger and orange essential oil for moderate-to-severe knee pain among the elderly in Hong Kong. Abstract Source: Microbes Infect. 2006 May;8(6):1450-4. Epub 2006 Mar 29. PMID: 18534325 Abstract Author(s): Yin Bing Yip, Ada Chung Ying Tam Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy of an aromatic essential oil (1% Zingiber officinale and 0.5% Citrus sinesis) massage among the elderly with moderate-to-severe knee pain. METHOD: Fifty-nine older persons were enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled experimental study group from the Community Centre for Senior Citizens, Hong Kong. The intervention was six massage sessions with ginger and orange oil over a 3-week period. The placebo control group received the same massage intervention with olive oil only and the control group received no massage. Assessment was done at baseline, post 1-week and post 4 weeks after treatment. Changes from baseline to the end of treatment were assessed on knee pain intensity, stiffness level and physical functioning (by Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis index) and quality of life (by SF-36). RESULTS: There were significant mean changes between the three time-points within the intervention group on three of the outcome measures: knee pain intensity (p=0.02); stiffness level (p=0.03); and enhancing physical function (p=0.04) but these were not apparent with the between-groups comparison (p=0.48, 0.14 and 0.45 respectively) 4 weeks after the massage. The improvement of physical function and pain were superior in the intervention group compared with both the placebo and the control group at post 1-week time (both p=0.03) but not sustained at post 4 weeks (p=0.45 and 0.29). The changes in quality of life were not statistically significant for all three groups. CONCLUSION: The aroma-massage therapy seems to have potential as an alternative method for short-term knee pain relief. Article Published Date : May 01, 2006

Abstract Title: The psychological effects of aromatherapy-massage in healthy postpartum mothers. Abstract Source: J Midwifery Womens Health. 2006 Mar-Apr;51(2):e21-7. PMID: 16504900 Abstract Author(s): Masumi Imura, Hanako Misao, Hiroshi Ushijima Abstract: This study examined the effect of aromatherapy-massage in healthy postpartum mothers. A quasi-experimental between-groups design was used. Mothers who received aromatherapy-massage were compared with a control group who received standard postpartum care. Thirty-six healthy, first-time mothers with vaginal delivery of a full-term, healthy infant participated in this study. Sixteen mothers received a 30-minute aromatherapy-massage on the second postpartum day; 20 mothers were in the control group. All mothers completed the following four standardized questionnaires before and after the intervention: 1) Maternity Blues Scale; 2) State-Trait Anxiety Inventory; 3) Profile of Mood States (POMS); and 4) Feeling toward Baby Scale. In the aromatherapy-massage group, posttreatment scores significantly decreased for the Maternity Blues Scale, the State-Anxiety Inventory, and all but one of the Profile of Mood States subscales. Posttreatment scores in the intervention group significantly increased in Profile of Mood States-Vigor subscale and the Approach Feeling toward Baby subscale. Scores in the intervention group significantly decreased in Conflict Index of Avoidance/Approach Feeling toward Baby subscale. Our results suggest that aromatherapy-massage might be an effective intervention for postpartum mothers to improve physical and mental status and to facilitate mother-infant interaction. Article Published Date : Mar 01, 2006

Abstract Title: A single-blinded, randomized pilot study evaluating the aroma of Lavandula augustifolia as a treatment for mild insomnia. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2005 Aug;11(4):631-7. PMID: 16131287 Abstract Author(s): George T Lewith, Anthony Dean Godfrey, Philip Prescott Abstract: BACKGROUND: Insomnia is the most common of all sleep complaints and is under-researched. The current treatments of choice are conventional hypnotics agents, but these have potential for serious adverse reactions. Uncontrolled and anecdotal evidence suggests that lavender oil is an effective treatment for insomnia, but this has not been formally investigated. OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were to evaluate the proposed trial methodology and the efficacy of Lavandula augustifolia (lavender) on insomnia. Interventions: Interventions consisted of Lavandula augustifolia (treatment) and sweet almond oil as placebo/control. The aroma was supplied via an Aromastream device (Tisserand Aromatherapy, Sussex, UK). DESIGN: This was a pilot study with randomized, single-blind, cross-over design (baseline, two treatment periods, and a washout period, each of 1 week duration). SUBJECTS AND SETTING: Volunteers with defined insomnia treated on a domiciliary basis participated in the study. OUTCOME MEASURES: Outcomes were assessed with the following: Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) indicating insomnia (score > 5 at entry); Borkovec and Nau (B&N) Questionnaire evaluating treatment credibility; and Holistic Complementary and Alternative Medicine Questionnaire (HCAMQ) assessing attitudes to CAM and health beliefs. RESULTS: Ten (10) volunteers (5 male and 5 female) were entered and completed the 4 week study. Lavender created an improvement of -2.5 points in PSQI (p = 0.07, 95% CI - 4.95 to - 0.4). Each intervention was equally credible and belief in CAM did not predict outcome. Women and younger volunteers with a milder insomnia improved more than others. No period or carry-over effect was observed. CONCLUSION: The methodology for this pilot study appeared to be appropriate. Outcomes favor lavender, and a larger trial is required to draw definitive conclusions. Article Published Date : Aug 01, 2005

Abstract Title: [The effect of lavender aromatherapy on cognitive function, emotion, and aggressive behavior of elderly with dementia]. Abstract Source: Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi. 2005 Apr;35(2):303-12. PMID: 15860944 Abstract Author(s): Sun-Young Lee Abstract: PURPOSE: This study was to develop an aromatherapy hand massage program, and to evaluate the effects of lavender aromatherapy on cognitive function, emotion, and aggressive behavior of elderly with dementia of the Alzheimer's type. METHOD: The Research design was a nonequivalent control group non-synchronized quasiexperimental study. Lavender aromatherapy was administrated to experimental group I for 2 weeks, jojoba oil massage was administrated to experimental group II for 2 weeks, and no treatment was administrated to the control group for 2 weeks. Data was analyzed using the chi(2)-test, ANOVA, repeated measures of ANCOVA and ANCOVA in the SPSS program package. RESULT: 1. Experimental group I did not show significant differences in cognitive function in relation to the experimental group II and control group. 2. Experimental group I showed significant differences in emotion and aggressive behavior in relation to the experimental group II and control group. CONCLUSION: A Lavender aromatherapy hand massage program is effective on emotions and aggressive behavior of elderly with dementia of the Alzheimer's type. Article Published Date : Apr 01, 2005

Abstract Title: [Effect of aromatherapy massage for the relief of constipation in the elderly]. Abstract Source: Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi. 2005 Feb;35(1):56-64. PMID: 15778557 Abstract Author(s): Myung-Ae Kim, Jung-Kyu Sakong, Eun-Jin Kim, Eun-Ha Kim, Eun-Ha Kim Abstract: PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to verify the effect of aromatherapy massage on constipation in the elderly. METHOD: This study for 10 day, employed a randomized control group pretest-posttest design. The experimental group received abdominal massage using essential oils with Rosemary, Lemon, and Peppermint, and the control group received a placebo massage. To evaluate the effect of aromatherapy, the degree of constipation was measured using the CAS(constipation assessment scale) and the number of bowel movements per week. Data was analyzed by repeated measures of ANOVA using the SPSS program. RESULT: The score of CAS of the experimental group was significantly lower than that of the control group. In addition the average number of bowel movements in the experimental group was higher than that of the control group. The effect of aromatherapy lasted 2 weeks after treatment, while the placebo effect lasted 7-10 days after treatment. CONCLUSION: The finding of this study showed that aromatherapy helps relieve constipation in the elderly. Article Published Date : Feb 01, 2005

Abstract Title: The effectiveness of relaxation acupoint stimulation and acupressure with aromatic lavender essential oil for non-specific low back pain in Hong Kong: a randomised controlled trial. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Med. 2004 Mar;12(1):28-37. PMID: 15130569 Abstract Author(s): Y B Yip, S H M Tse Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To assess the effect of acupoint stimulation with electrodes combined with acupressure using an aromatic essential oil (lavender) as an add-on-treatment on pain relief and enhancing the physical functional activities among adults with sub-acute or chronic non-specific low back pain. DESIGN: Randomised controlled trial. SETTING: The community centre, Old-Aged Home and Women Workers Association, Hong Kong. Intervention: 8-session relaxation acupoint stimulation followed by acupressure with lavender oil over a 3-week period. The control group received usual care only. OUTCOME MEASURES: Changes from baseline to the end of treatment were assessed in pain intensity (by Visual Analogue Scale) and duration; lateral fingertip-to-ground distance in centimetres; walking time and interference on daily activities. RESULTS: The baseline VAS scores for the intervention and control groups were 6.38 (S.E.M. = 0.22) and 5.70 (S.E.M. = 0.37) out of 10, respectively ( P=0.24 ). One week after the end of treatment, the intervention group had 39% greater reduction in VAS pain intensity than the control group ( P=0.0001 ), improved walking time ( P=0.05 ) and greater lateral spine flexion range ( P=0.01 ). CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that 8-sessions of acupoint stimulation followed by acupressure with aromatic lavender oil were an effective method for short-term LBP relief. No adverse effects were reported. To complement mainstream medical treatment for sub-acute LBP, the combined therapy of acupoint stimulation followed by acupressure with aromatic lavender oil may be one of the choices as an add-on therapy for short-term reduction of LBP. Article Published Date : Mar 01, 2004

Abstract Title: A randomized controlled trial of aromatherapy massage in a hospice setting. Abstract Source: Palliat Med. 2004 Mar;18(2):87-92. PMID: 15046404 Abstract Author(s): Katie Soden, Karen Vincent, Stephen Craske, Caroline Lucas, Sue Ashley Article Affiliation: Princess Alice Hospice, Esher, Surrey, UK. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Abstract: Research suggests that patients with cancer, particularly in the palliative care setting, are increasingly using aromatherapy and massage. There is good evidence that these therapies may be helpful for anxiety reduction for short periods, but few studies have looked at the longer term effects. This study was designed to compare the effects of four-week courses of aromatherapy massage and massage alone on physical and psychological symptoms in patients with advanced cancer. Forty-two patients were randomly allocated to receive weekly massages with lavender essential oil and an inert carrier oil (aromatherapy group), an inert carrier oil only (massage group) or no intervention. Outcome measures included a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of pain intensity, the Verran and Snyder-Halpern (VSH) sleep scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) scale and the Rotterdam Symptom Checklist (RSCL). We were unable to demonstrate any significant long-term benefits of aromatherapy or massage in terms of improving pain control, anxiety or quality of life. However, sleep scores improved significantly in both the massage and the combined massage (aromatherapy and massage) groups. There were also statistically significant reductions in depression scores in the massage group. In this study of patients with advanced cancer, the addition of lavender essential oil did not appear to increase the beneficial effects of massage. Our results do suggest, however, that patients with high levels of psychological distress respond best to these therapies. Article Published Date : Mar 01, 2004

Abstract Title: Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults. Abstract Source: Int J Neurosci. 2003 Jan;113(1):15-38. PMID: 12690999 Abstract Author(s): Mark Moss, Jenny Cook, Keith Wesnes, Paul Duckett Article Affiliation: Human Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, Division of Psychology, Northumberland Building, University of Northumbria, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Abstract: This study was designed to assess the olfactory impact of the essential oils of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and rosemary (Rosmarlnus officinalis) on cognitive performance and mood in healthy volunteers. One hundred and forty-four participants were randomly assigned to one of three independent groups, and subsequently performed the Cognitive Drug Research (CDR) computerized cognitive assessment battery in a cubicle containing either one of the two odors or no odor (control). Visual analogue mood questionnaires were completed prior to exposure to the odor, and subsequently after completion of the test battery. The participants were deceived as to the genuine aim of the study until the completion of testing to prevent expectancy effects from possibly influencing the data. The outcome variables from the nine tasks that constitute the CDR core battery feed into six factors that represent different aspects of cognitive functioning. Analysis of performance revealed that lavender produced a significant decrement in performance of working memory, and impaired reaction times for both memory and attention based tasks compared to controls. In contrast, rosemary produced a significant enhancement of performance for overall quality of memory and secondary memory factors, but also produced an impairment of speed of memory compared to controls. With regard to mood, comparisons of the change in ratings from baseline to post-test revealed that following the completion of the cognitive assessment battery, both the control and lavender groups were significantly less alert than the rosemary condition; however, the control group was significantly less content than both rosemary and lavender conditions. These findings indicate that the olfactory properties of these essential oils can produce objective effects on cognitive performance, as well as subjective effects on mood. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2003

Abstract Title: Effects of fragrance inhalation on sympathetic activity in normal adults. Abstract Source: Jpn J Pharmacol. 2002 Nov;90(3):247-53. PMID: 12499579 Abstract Author(s): Shinichiro Haze, Keiko Sakai, Yoko Gozu Article Affiliation: Product Development Center, Shiseido Co., Ltd., Hayabuchi, Yokohama, Japan. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Abstract: We investigated the effects of fragrance inhalation on sympathetic activity in normal adult subjects using both power spectral analysis of blood pressure fluctuations and measurement of plasma catecholamine levels. Fragrance inhalation of essential oils, such as pepper oil, estragon oil, fennel oil or grapefruit oil, resulted in 1.5- to 2.5-fold increase in relative sympathetic activity, representing low frequency amplitude of systolic blood pressure (SBP-LF amplitude), compared with inhalation of an odorless solvent, triethyl citrate (P<0.05, each). In contrast, fragrance inhalation of rose oil or patchouli oil caused a 40% decrease in relative sympathetic activity (P<0.01, each). Fragrance inhalation of pepper oil induced a 1.7-fold increase in plasma adrenaline concentration compared with the resting state (P = 0.06), while fragrance inhalation of rose oil caused a 30% decrease in adrenaline concentration (P<0.01). Our results indicate that fragrance inhalation of essential oils may modulate sympathetic activity in normal adults. Article Published Date : Nov 01, 2002

Abstract Title: Ambient odor of orange in a dental office reduces anxiety and improves mood in female patients. Abstract Source: Physiol Behav. 2000 Oct 1-15;71(1-2):83-6. PMID: 11134689 Abstract Author(s): J Lehrner, C Eckersberger, P Walla, G Pötsch, L Deecke Article Affiliation: Neurological Clinic, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Abstract: Essential oils have been used as remedies for a long time in different cultures across the world. However, scientific proof of such application is scarce. We included 72 patients between the ages of 22 and 57 while waiting for dental treatment in our study. The participants were assigned to either a control group (14 men, 23 women) or to an odor group (18 men and 17 women). Ambient odor of orange was diffused in the waiting room through an electrical dispenser in the odor group whereas in the control group no odor was in the air. We assessed by means of self-report demographic and cognitive variables, trait and state anxiety, and current pain, mood, alertness, and calmness. In this study, we report that exposure to ambient odor of orange has a relaxant effect. Specifically, compared to the controls, women who were exposed to orange odor had a lower level of state anxiety, a more positive mood, and a higher level of calmness. Our data support the previous notion of sedative properties of the natural essential oil of orange (Citrus sinensis).

Abstract Title: The effect of foot-bath with or without the essential oil of lavender on the autonomic nervous system: a randomized trial. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Med. 2000 Mar ;8(1):2-7. PMID: 10812753 Abstract Author(s): Y Saeki Article Affiliation: Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Nagano College of Nursing, Japan. Abstract: OBJECTIVES: This study was designed to investigate the effect of foot-bath with or without the essential oil of lavender on the autonomic nervous system. DESIGN: Randomized crossover controlled study. SETTING: Nursing college, Nagano, Japan. INTERVENTION: Young women sat with their feet soaked in hot water for 10 minutes with and without the essential oil. OUTCOME MEASURES: An electrocardiogram, finger tip blood flow and respiratory rate were recorded. Autonomic function was evaluated using spectral analysis of heart rate variability. RESULTS: The foot-bath caused no changes in heart or respiratory rates, but produced a significant increase in blood flow. Using spectral analysis, the parasympathetic nerve activity increased significantly during the both types of foot-bath. In the case of the foot-bath with the addition of essential oil of lavender, there were delayed changes to the balance of autonomic activity in the direction associated with relaxation. CONCLUSION: A hot foot-bath and oil of lavender appear to be associated with small but significant changes in autonomic activity. Article Published Date : Mar 01, 2000

Abstract Title: [Effects of lavender aromatherapy on insomnia and depression in women college students]. Abstract Source: Br J Pharmacol. 1999 Sep;128(2):380-4. PMID: 16520572 Abstract Author(s): Inn-Sook Lee, Gyung-Joo Lee Abstract: PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of the lavender fragrance on sleep and depression in women college students. METHOD: Forty-two women college students who complained of insomnia were studied during a four-week protocol(control treatment week, 60% lavender fragrance treatment week, washout week, 100% lavender fragrance treatment week). All subjects were in the department of nursing in "K" college and the study was a single blind repeated measurements experiment. For the duration of the study, weekly evaluations of sleep, patterns of sleep disturbance, severity of insomnia scale, self satisfaction with sleep, and severity of depression were performed. RESULT: Among sleep variables, length of time taken to fall asleep, severity of insomnia, and self satisfaction with sleep were improved for the 60%(p=.000, p=.000, p=.000) and 100%(p=.000, p=.000, p=.000) week while the severity of depression was improved only for the 100%(p=.002) week. CONCLUSION: According to the study results, it can be concluded that the lavender fragrance had a beneficial effect on insomnia and depression in women college students. Repeated studies are needed to confirm effective proportions of lavender oil and carrier oil for insomnia and depression. Article Published Date : Sep 01, 1999

Abstract Title: Aromatherapy positively affects mood, EEG patterns of alertness and math computations. Abstract Source: Int J Neurosci. 1998 Dec;96(3-4):217-24. PMID: 10069621 Abstract Author(s): M A Diego, N A Jones, T Field, M Hernandez-Reif, S Schanberg, C Kuhn, V McAdam, R Galamaga, M Galamaga Article Affiliation: University of Miami School of Medicine, USA. Abstract: EEG activity, alertness, and mood were assessed in 40 adults given 3 minutes of aromatherapy using two aromas, lavender (considered a relaxing odor) or rosemary (considered a stimulating odor). Participants were also given simple math computations before and after the therapy. The lavender group showed increased beta power, suggesting increased drowsiness, they had less depressed mood (POMS) and reported feeling more relaxed and performed the math computations faster and more accurately following aromatherapy. The rosemary group, on the other hand, showed decreased frontal alpha and beta power, suggesting increased alertness. They also had lower state anxiety scores, reported feeling more relaxed and alert and they were only faster, not more accurate, at completing the math computations after the aromatherapy session. Article Published Date : Dec 01, 1998

Abstract Title: Inhalation of vapor from black pepper extract reduces smoking withdrawal symptoms. Abstract Source: Drug Alcohol Depend. 1994 Feb;34(3):225-9. PMID: 8033760 Abstract Author(s): J E Rose, F M Behm Abstract: Previous studies have suggested that sensory cues associated with cigarette smoking can suppress certain smoking withdrawal symptoms, including craving for cigarettes. In this study we investigated the subjective effects of a cigarette substitute delivering a vapor of black pepper essential oil. Forty-eight cigarette smokers participated in a 3-h session conducted after overnight deprivation from smoking. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: one group of smokers puffed on a device that delivered a vapor from essential oil of black pepper; a second group puffed on the device with a mint/menthol cartridge, and a third group used a device containing an empty cartridge. Subjects puffed and inhaled ad libitum from the device throughout the session during which no smoking was allowed. Reported craving for cigarettes was significantly reduced in the pepper condition relative to each of the two control conditions. In addition, negative affect and somatic symptoms of anxiety were alleviated in the pepper condition relative to the unflavored placebo. The intensity of sensations in the chest was also significantly higher for the pepper condition. These results support the view that respiratory tract sensations are important in alleviating smoking withdrawal symptoms. Cigarette substitutes delivering pepper constituents may prove useful in smoking cessation treatment. Article Published Date : Feb 01, 1994