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Mittal P, Jadhav GR, Kader M MA, Gaikwad AR, Shinde S, Di Blasio M, Ronsivalle V, Cicciù M, Minervini G. Evaluation of lavender and rose aromatherapies on the success of inferior alveolar nerve block in symptomatic irreversible pulpitis: A randomized clinical trial. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34514. [PMID: 39113957 PMCID: PMC11305316 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Trial design This is a prospective, block-randomized, blinded, multiple arm and parallel-group superiority clinical trial. Methods Seventy-eight patients satisfying the recruitment standards, were randomly allocated into three groups as follows: Group I (n = 26) - Inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) devoid of aromatherapy (AT); Group II (n = 26) - IANB with lavender AT and Group III - IANB with rose AT (n = 26) with the help of the ultrasonic aroma diffuser (with respective oils)for 20 min/2 h in operatories 1,2 and 3 respectively. For AT, 3-4 drops of lavender and rose-conditioned oils were added from a 100 ml solution containing 100 mg of these medicinal plants. The pre-operative (PRO) and access opening (AO) pain as well as the anxiety of patients were recorded using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) respectively. Data thus obtained was entered into the Excel sheet and subjected to statistical tests (analysis of variance and paired t-test). The p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Group I showed non-significant disparity between PRO and AO for both VAS as well as MDAS (p = 0.62, p = 0.71). However, group II (p = 0.04, p = 0.02) and group III (p = 0.03, p = 0.01) revealed significant differences between PO - AO VAS and MDAS. MDAS and VAS intergroup comparison revealed a significant difference among groups I and II (p = 0.03, p = 0.04), and groups I and III (p = 0.02, p = 0.03). However non-significant disparity was observed among groups II and III (p = 0.85, 0.34). Moreover, there was a statistically significant reduction in anxiety levels in females compared to males after rose AT (p = 0.02). Nevertheless, groups I and II did not show any gender predilection for anxiety as well as pain. Conclusion Alleviation of dental anxiety as well as reduction in pain during AO of teeth with SIP can be achieved using Lavender and rose AT. In female patients, rose AT can be preferred over lavender AT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Mittal
- Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Swargiya Dadasaheb Kalmegh Smruti Dental College & Hospital, Nagpur, India
| | | | - Mohammed Abdul Kader M
- Department of Restorative Dental Science, College of Dentistry, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anjali Rajesh Gaikwad
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Siddharth Shinde
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Marco Di Blasio
- Department of Biomedical Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Ronsivalle
- Department of Biomedical and Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Catania University, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Cicciù
- Department of Biomedical and Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Catania University, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Minervini
- Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Odontostomatological Specialties, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80121, Naples, Italy
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Batiha GES, Teibo JO, Wasef L, Shaheen HM, Akomolafe AP, Teibo TKA, Al-Kuraishy HM, Al-Garbeeb AI, Alexiou A, Papadakis M. A review of the bioactive components and pharmacological properties of Lavandula species. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 396:877-900. [PMID: 36773055 PMCID: PMC10079719 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02392-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Lavandula species is a flowering plant that is common in Europe and across the Mediterranean. Lavender has many health benefits for humans. In addition to its use in herbal medicine, it is widely used in the fields of cosmetics, perfumes, foods, and aromatherapy. Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used to search for relevant material on the phytochemical ingredients, the pharmacologic effects of the ingredients, and the mechanism of action of the Lavandula species identified. These materials were reviewed in order to have access to important updates about the Lavandula species. Lavender as referred to in English contains essential oils, anthocyanins, phytosterols, sugars, minerals, coumaric acid, glycolic acid, valeric acid, ursolic acid, herniarins, coumarins, and tannins. It has been used to treat colic and chest ailments, worrisome headaches, and biliousness, and in cleaning wounds. It has antifungal, antibacterial, neurologic, antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, anti-diabetic, and analgesic effects among others. Lavandula species has prospects for various biological applications, especially with its dermatological application. Advances in drug development would enable characterization of various bioactive constituents; thus, its development and application can have a more positive impact on humanity. Here, we highlighted updated information on the history, distribution, traditional uses, phytochemical components, pharmacology, and various biological activities of Lavandula species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, 22511, AlBeheira, Egypt.
| | - John Oluwafemi Teibo
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Lamiaa Wasef
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, 22511, AlBeheira, Egypt
| | - Hazem M Shaheen
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, 22511, AlBeheira, Egypt
| | | | - Titilade Kehinde Ayandeyi Teibo
- Department of Maternal-Infant and Public Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Hayder M Al-Kuraishy
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicine, Medical Faculty, College of Medicine, Al-Mustansiriyah University, P.O. Box 14132, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ali I Al-Garbeeb
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicine, Medical Faculty, College of Medicine, Al-Mustansiriyah University, P.O. Box 14132, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- Department of Science and Engineering, Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Hebersham, NSW, 2770, Australia.,AFNP Med, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marios Papadakis
- Department of Surgery II, University Hospital Witten-Herdecke, Heusnerstrasse 40, University of Witten-Herdecke, 42283, Wuppertal, Germany.
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Farahani MA, Afsargharehbagh R, Marandi F, Moradi M, Hashemi SM, Moghadam MP, Balouchi A. Effect of aromatherapy on cancer complications: A systematic review. Complement Ther Med 2019; 47:102169. [PMID: 31779991 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2019.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to determine the effect of aromatherapy on cancer complications. METHODS In this systematic review, international (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE and CENTRAL) and national databases (SID and Magiran) were searched from inception of the databases to April 31, 2019. JBI and Jadad scales were used to assess the quality of the studies included. RESULTS of 43 Studies conducted on 3239 cancer patients in 13 countries from 1995 to 2019, entered the final stage. The results showed that the aromatherapy improves the various physical and psychological complications, although few studies have shown that aromatherapy had no effect on skin reactions. CONCLUSION Considering the various complications and costs in cancer patients, it seems that the aromatherapy can be used as a proper supplemental treatment to improve complications, although further studies are needed to determine the protocol and the standard dosage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansoureh Ashghali Farahani
- Nursing Care Research Center (NCRC), School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Fatemeh Marandi
- MSc, Nursing Care Research Center (NCRC), School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojgan Moradi
- MSs Student of Medical -Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed-Mehdi Hashemi
- Clinical Immunology Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology and Medical Oncology Ward, Ali-Ebne-Abitalelb Hospital, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran.
| | - Mahdieh Poodineh Moghadam
- Instructor, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Abbas Balouchi
- Student Research Committee, Nursing and Midwifery School, Iran University of Medical Science, Iran
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S PK, Aafaque S, S S, N N. Effect of Aromatherapy on Dental Anxiety Among Orthodontic Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Cureus 2019; 11:e5306. [PMID: 31592362 PMCID: PMC6773455 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.5306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Dental anxiety is a distressing challenge faced by both the patients and the dental care provider, particularly in the Department of Orthodontics. The goal of this study was to assess the effect of aromatherapy (oils) on dental anxiety level among orthodontic patients and to compare the effect on anxiety levels between lavender oil, rose oil, and a placebo. Materials and methods: A total of 72 patients (36 men and 36 women) who reported to the Department of Orthodontics were selected and randomly allocated into three groups: lavender oil, rose oil, and placebo. The ambient odor of those oils or placebo was maintained with a candle warmer, and the patients were made to wait in their respective rooms for 15 minutes. Participants' heart rate and blood pressure, being reliable and objective indicators of anxiety, were measured using pulse oximeter and sphygmomanometer, respectively. Additionally, a questionnaire, comprising demographic data and questions representing a modified Dental Anxiety Scale, was given to the patients to measure subjective anxiety levels before and after aromatic therapy. Paired t-test, analysis of variance, and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test were used for both subjective and objective analyses. Results: Lavender oil and rose oil produced a significant reduction of dental anxiety level among orthodontic patients in both objective and subjective method (P ≤ .05); lavender oil demonstrated a greater significance in reducing the anxiety level when compared to rose oil. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that aromatherapy offers promising effect against dental anxiety among orthodontic patients. Aromatherapy can be recommended as an easy alternative to reduce anxiety in patients before orthodontic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Premkumar K S
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Best Dental Science College and Hospital, Madurai, IND
| | - Syed Aafaque
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Best Dental Science College and Hospital, Madurai, IND
| | - Sumalatha S
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Best Dental Science College and Hospital, Madurai, IND
| | - Narendran N
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Best Dental Science College and Hospital, Madurai, IND
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Hsu CH, Chi CC, Chen PS, Wang SH, Tung TH, Wu SC. The effects of aromatherapy massage on improvement of anxiety among patients receiving palliative care: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e14720. [PMID: 30817616 PMCID: PMC6831411 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000014720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety in patients receiving palliative care is a noteworthy concern because it may affect their quality of life. Aromatherapy has been widely utilized to improve anxiety among patients receiving palliative care. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effectiveness of anxiety improvement in patients receiving palliative care by comparing the intervention group (aromatherapy massage) with the control group (common massage alone). METHODS A literature search was performed using PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE, and CINAHL for all related studies from inception through November 30, 2018 without restriction on language. A quantitative synthesis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to compare the difference in effectiveness scores between the aromatherapy massage and only common massage groups by employing a random-effect model. RESULTS We included three RCTs with a total of 160 participants (81 in the intervention group and 79 in the control group) in our systematic review and conducted a quantitative synthesis. The secondary data from the reviewed trials were then pooled using a random-effect model. Anxiety (mean difference = -2.60 [95% confidence interval: -7.82, 2.63], P = .33) was assessed using anxiety scores from the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. CONCLUSION Compared with common massage alone, aromatherapy massage does not provide significant effectiveness of anxiety improvement among patients receiving palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Hsien Hsu
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung
| | - Ching-Chi Chi
- Department of Dermatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan
| | - Pei-Shih Chen
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung
| | - Shu-Hui Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital
- Graduate Institute of Applied Science and Engineering, College of Science and Engineering, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei
| | - Tao-Hsin Tung
- Department of Medical Research and Education, Cheng Hsin General Hospital, Taipei
| | - Shih-Chung Wu
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan
- Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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Abstract
The use of plant essential oils in aromatherapy has been recorded for thousands of years, but until recently there was very little formal evidence regarding the use of these treatments in people with dementia. Over the past few years a number of clinical trials have compared aromatherapy, principally using either lavender (Lavandula angustifolia or Lavandula officinalis) or lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), with inactive treatment. All of these studies demonstrated a significant impact on behavioural problems in patients with dementia, with negligible side-effects. However, there is still not sufficient evidence to recommend widespread use in clinical practice and the key question of whether these treatments can provide a viable alternative to existing pharmacological agents needs to be addressed.
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Hozumi H, Hasegawa S, Tsunenari T, Sanpei N, Arashina Y, Takahashi K, Konnno A, Chida E, Tomimatsu S. Aromatherapies using Osmanthus fragrans oil and grapefruit oil are effective complementary treatments for anxious patients undergoing colonoscopy: A randomized controlled study. Complement Ther Med 2017; 34:165-169. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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Dimitriou V, Mavridou P, Manataki A, Damigos D. The Use of Aromatherapy for Postoperative Pain Management: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. J Perianesth Nurs 2017; 32:530-541. [PMID: 29157760 DOI: 10.1016/j.jopan.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2016] [Revised: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Aromatherapy (AT) is a complementary therapy recently used in the perianesthetic period. However, the scientific data on its effectiveness are limited. The aim of this systematic review is to present and analyze the results of all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that studied the effectiveness of AT as a complementary treatment for postoperative pain. DESIGN PubMed and Cochrane Library databases were searched from 1965 to December 2015. Nine randomized controlled trials that met the inclusion criteria were eventually included. METHODS The studies included a total of 644 patients, who underwent various types of surgeries. The modified Jadad scale with eight items was used for the methodological evaluation of the RCTs. FINDINGS Five RCTs support AT, which can alleviate postoperative pain, whereas four found no statistically significant differences between groups. CONCLUSIONS Although AT is presented as an inexpensive complementary treatment with a low rate of adverse effects that improves patient satisfaction, it cannot be determined that there is sufficient evidence to conclude its effectiveness as a nonpharmacologic approach to the reduction of postoperative pain intensity.
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Irmak Sapmaz H, Uysal M, Taş U, Esen M, Barut M, Somuk BT, Alatlı T, Ayan S. The Effect of Lavender Oil in Patients with Renal Colic: A Prospective Controlled Study Using Objective and Subjective Outcome Measurements. J Altern Complement Med 2015. [PMID: 26222759 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2015.0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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. Results are 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilal Irmak Sapmaz
- 1 Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Gaziosmanpasa University , Tokat, Turkey
| | - Murat Uysal
- 1 Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Gaziosmanpasa University , Tokat, Turkey
| | - Ufuk Taş
- 1 Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Gaziosmanpasa University , Tokat, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Esen
- 2 Faculty of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Gaziosmanpasa University , Tokat, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Barut
- 3 Clinic of Internal Medicine, Tokat State Hospital , Tokat, Turkey
| | - Battal Tahsin Somuk
- 4 Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ear, Nose and Throat Diseases, Gaziosmanpasa University , Tokat, Turkey
| | - Tufan Alatlı
- 2 Faculty of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Gaziosmanpasa University , Tokat, Turkey
| | - Safiye Ayan
- 5 Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Gaziosmanpasa University , Tokat, Turkey
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Essential oils and their constituents as anticancer agents: a mechanistic view. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:154106. [PMID: 25003106 PMCID: PMC4070586 DOI: 10.1155/2014/154106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2014] [Accepted: 04/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Exploring natural plant products as an option to find new chemical entities as anticancer agents is one of the fastest growing areas of research. Recently, in the last decade, essential oils (EOs) have been under study for their use in cancer therapy and the present review is an attempt to collect and document the available studies indicating EOs and their constituents as anticancer agents. This review enlists nearly 130 studies of EOs from various plant species and their constituents that have been studied so far for their anticancer potential and these studies have been classified as in vitro and in vivo studies for EOs and their constituents. This review also highlights in-depth various mechanisms of action of different EOs and their constituents reported in the treatment strategies for different types of cancer. The current review indicates that EOs and their constituents act by multiple pathways and mechanisms involving apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, antimetastatic and antiangiogenic, increased levels of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), DNA repair modulation, and others to demonstrate their antiproliferative activity in the cancer cell. The effect of EOs and their constituents on tumour suppressor proteins (p53 and Akt), transcription factors (NF- κB and AP-1), MAPK-pathway, and detoxification enzymes like SOD, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase has also been discussed.
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Boehm K, Büssing A, Ostermann T. Aromatherapy as an adjuvant treatment in cancer care--a descriptive systematic review. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL, COMPLEMENTARY, AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINES 2012; 9:503-18. [PMID: 23983386 DOI: 10.4314/ajtcam.v9i4.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Claims of benefits of aromatherapy for cancer patients include reduced anxiety levels and relief of emotional stress, pain, muscular tension and fatigue. The objective of this paper is to provide an updated descriptive, systematic review of evidence from pre-clinical and clinical trials assessing the benefits and safety of aromatherapy for cancer patients. Literature databases such as Medline (via Ovid), the Cochrane database of systematic reviews, Cochrane Central were searched from their inception until October 2010. Only studies on cancer cells or cancer patients were included. There is no long lasting effect of aromatherapy massage, while short term improvements were reported for general well being, anxiety and depression up to 8 weeks after treatment. The reviewed studies indicate short-term effects of aromatherapy on depression, anxiety and overall wellbeing. Specifically, some clinical trials found an increase in patient-identified symptom relief, psychological wellbeing and improved sleep. Furthermore, some found a short-term improvement (up to 2 weeks after treatment) in anxiety and depression scores and better pain control. Although essential oils have generally shown minimal adverse effects, potential risks include ingesting large amounts (intentional misuse); local skin irritation, especially with prolonged skin contact; allergic contact dermatitis; and phototoxicity from reaction to sunlight (some oils). Repeated topical administration of lavender and tea tree oil was associated with reversible prepubertal gynecomastia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Boehm
- Faculty for Health, Department for Medicine, Center for Integrative Medicine Chair for Theory of Medicine, Integrative and Anthroposophic Medicine University Witten / Herdecke, Gerhard-Kienle-Weg 4 D-58313 Herdecke, Germany.
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Hongratanaworakit T. Aroma-therapeutic Effects of Massage Blended Essential Oils on Humans. Nat Prod Commun 2011. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x1100600838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Although blended essential oils are increasingly being used for the improvement of the quality of life and for the relief of various symptoms in patients, the scientific evaluation of the aroma-therapeutic effects of blended essential oils in humans is rather scarce. In this study, we hypothesized that applying blended essential oil would provide a synergistic effect that would have a chance for success in treating depression or anxiety. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of the blended essential oil on autonomic parameters and on emotional responses in humans following transdermal absorption. The blended essential oil consisted of lavender and bergamot oils. Human autonomic parameters, i.e. blood pressure, pulse rate, breathing rate, and skin temperature, were recorded as indicators of the arousal level of the autonomic nervous system. In addition, subjects had to rate their emotional condition in terms of relaxation, vigor, calmness, attentiveness, mood, and alertness in order to assess subjective behavioral arousal. Forty healthy volunteers participated in the experiments. Blended essential oil was applied topically to the skin of the abdomen of each subject. Compared with placebo, blended essential oil caused significant decreases of pulse rate, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure, which indicated a decrease of autonomic arousal. At the emotional level, subjects in the blended essential oil group rated themselves as ‘more calm’ and ‘more relaxed’ than subjects in the control group. This finding suggests a decrease of subjective behavioral arousal. In conclusion, our investigation demonstrates the relaxing effect of a mixture of lavender and bergamot oils. This synergistic blend provides evidence for its use in medicine for treating depression or anxiety in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapanee Hongratanaworakit
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Srinakharinwirot University, Rangsit-Ongkharak Road, Nakhonnayok 26120, Thailand
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Stagg EK, Lazenby M. Best Practices for the Nonpharmacological Treatment of Depression at the End of Life. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2011; 29:183-94. [DOI: 10.1177/1049909111413889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark Lazenby
- Yale School of Nursing, South New Haven, CT, USA
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Lee YL, Wu Y, Tsang HWH, Leung AY, Cheung WM. A systematic review on the anxiolytic effects of aromatherapy in people with anxiety symptoms. J Altern Complement Med 2011; 17:101-8. [PMID: 21309711 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2009.0277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We reviewed studies from 1990 to 2010 on using aromatherapy for people with anxiety or anxiety symptoms and examined their clinical effects. METHODS The review was conducted on available electronic databases to extract journal articles that evaluated the anxiolytic effects of aromatherapy for people with anxiety symptoms. RESULTS The results were based on 16 randomized controlled trials examining the anxiolytic effects of aromatherapy among people with anxiety symptoms. Most of the studies indicated positive effects to quell anxiety. No adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS It is recommended that aromatherapy could be applied as a complementary therapy for people with anxiety symptoms. Further studies with better quality on methodology should be conducted to identify its clinical effects and the underlying biologic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuk-Lan Lee
- Neuropsychiatric Rehabilitation Laboratory, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
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Yim VWC, Ng AKY, Tsang HWH, Leung AY. A review on the effects of aromatherapy for patients with depressive symptoms. J Altern Complement Med 2010; 15:187-95. [PMID: 19216657 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2008.0333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We reviewed studies from 2000 to 2008 on using essential oils for patients with depression or depressive symptoms and examined their clinical effects. METHODS The review was conducted among five electronic databases to identify all peer-reviewed journal papers that tested the effects of aromatherapy in the form of therapeutic massage for patients with depressive symptoms. RESULTS The results were based on six studies examining the effects of aromatherapy on depressive symptoms in patients with depression and cancer. Some studies showed positive effects of this intervention among these three groups of patients. CONCLUSIONS We recommend that aromatherapy could continue to be used as a complementary and alternative therapy for patients with depression and secondary depressive symptoms arising from various types of chronic medical conditions. More controlled studies with sound methodology should be conducted in the future to ascertain its clinical effects and the underlying psychobiologic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- V W C Yim
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
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Braden R, Reichow S, Halm MA. The use of the essential oil lavandin to reduce preoperative anxiety in surgical patients. J Perianesth Nurs 2010; 24:348-55. [PMID: 19962101 DOI: 10.1016/j.jopan.2009.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2009] [Revised: 08/20/2009] [Accepted: 10/05/2009] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Preoperative anxiety is prevalent in surgical patients who may require anxiety medications, thus impacting preoperative teaching and patient satisfaction. No studies were found in a comprehensive search on the effect of essential oils on anxiety in the preoperative setting. The purpose of this experimental study was to investigate whether the essential oil lavandin is more effective than standard care in reducing preoperative anxiety. A convenience sample of 150 adult patients were randomly assigned to either control (standard care), experimental (standard care plus essential oil lavandin), or sham (standard care plus jojoba oil) groups. Visual analog scales were used to assess anxiety on admission and OR transfer. Controlling for baseline anxiety and pain, the lavandin group had significantly lower anxiety on OR transfer, suggesting that lavandin is a simple, low-risk, cost-effective intervention with the potential to improve preoperative outcomes and increase patient satisfaction. Future studies should test the effects of lavandin in the postoperative phase and in specific populations with documented high anxiety.
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Schneider S, Moyer A, Knapp-Oliver S, Sohl S, Cannella D, Targhetta V. Pre-intervention distress moderates the efficacy of psychosocial treatment for cancer patients: a meta-analysis. J Behav Med 2010; 33:1-14. [PMID: 19784868 PMCID: PMC2813921 DOI: 10.1007/s10865-009-9227-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2009] [Accepted: 09/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This meta-analysis examined whether effects of psychosocial interventions on psychological distress in cancer patients are conditional upon pre-intervention distress levels. Published articles and unpublished dissertations between 1980 and 2005 were searched for interventions reporting the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) or the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Multilevel mixed-effects modeling was used to meta-analyze effect-sizes separately for the HADS (27 trials, 2,424 patients) and STAI (34 trials, 2,029 patients). Pre-intervention distress significantly moderated intervention effects, explaining up to 50% of the between-study effect-size variance: effects on anxiety and depression were generally negligible when pre-intervention distress was low and pronounced when it was high. These results could not be explained by differences in intervention type, setting, dose, and whether intervention was targeted at distressed patients. Psychosocial interventions may be most beneficial for cancer patients with elevated distress. Future research should identify which treatment components are most effective for these patients to facilitate optimal treatment tailoring and cost-effective health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Schneider
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794-2500, USA.
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Intraplantar injection of bergamot essential oil into the mouse hindpaw: effects on capsaicin-induced nociceptive behaviors. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2009. [PMID: 19607974 DOI: 10.1016/s0074-7742(09)85018-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Despite the increasing use of aromatherapy oils, there have not been many studies exploring the biological activities of bergamot (Citrus bergamia, Risso) essential oil (BEO). Recently, we have investigated the effects of BEO injected into the plantar surface of the hindpaw in the capsaicin test in mice. The intraplantar injection of capsaicin produced an intense and short-lived licking/biting response toward the injected hindpaw. The capsaicin-induced nociceptive response was reduced significantly by intraplantar injection of BEO. The essential oils of Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea), Thyme ct. linalool (linalool chemotype of Thymus vulgaris), Lavender Reydovan (Lavandula hybrida reydovan), and True Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), had similar antinociceptive effects on the capsaicin-induced nociceptive response, while Orange Sweet (Citrus sinensis) essential oil was without effect. In contrast to a small number of pharmacological studies of BEO, there is ample evidence regarding isolated components of BEO which are also found in other essential oils. The most abundant compounds found in the volatile fraction are the monoterpene hydrocarbons, such as limonene, gamma-terpinene, beta-pinene, and oxygenated derivatives, linalool and linalyl acetate. Of these monoterpenes, the pharmacological activities of linalool have been examined. Following intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration in mice, linalool produces antinociceptive and antihyperalgesic effects in different animal models in addition to anti-inflammatory properties. Linalool also possesses anticonvulsant activity in experimental models of epilepsy. We address the importance of linalool or linalyl acetate in BEO-or the other essential oil-induced antinociception.
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Post-White J, Fitzgerald M, Savik K, Hooke MC, Hannahan AB, Sencer SF. Massage therapy for children with cancer. J Pediatr Oncol Nurs 2008; 26:16-28. [PMID: 19074355 DOI: 10.1177/1043454208323295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This pilot study aimed to determine the feasibility of providing massage to children with cancer to reduce symptoms in children and anxiety in parents. Twenty-three children/parent dyads were enrolled; 17 completed all data points. Children with cancer, ages 1 to 18 years, received at least 2 identical cycles of chemotherapy, and one parent, participated in the 2-period crossover design in which 4 weekly massage sessions alternated with 4 weekly quiet-time control sessions. Changes in relaxation (heart and respiratory rates, blood pressure, and salivary cortisol level) and symptoms (pain, nausea, anxiety, and fatigue) were assessed in children; anxiety and fatigue were measured in parents. Massage was more effective than quiet time at reducing heart rate in children, anxiety in children less than age 14 years, and parent anxiety. There were no significant changes in blood pressure, cortisol, pain, nausea, or fatigue. Children reported that massage helped them feel better, lessened their anxiety and worries, and had longer lasting effects than quiet time. Massage in children with cancer is feasible and appears to decrease anxiety in parents and younger children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice Post-White
- University of Minnesota School of Nursing, 707 Kenwood Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55403, USA.
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Fellowes D, Barnes K, Wilkinson SS. WITHDRAWN: Aromatherapy and massage for symptom relief in patients with cancer. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2008; 2008:CD002287. [PMID: 18843631 PMCID: PMC10732304 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd002287.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aromatherapy massage is a commonly used complementary therapy, and is employed in cancer and palliative care largely to improve quality of life and reduce psychological distress. OBJECTIVES To investigate whether aromatherapy or massage, or both, decreases psychological morbidity, lessens symptom distress and/or improves the quality of life in patients with a diagnosis of cancer. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2002), MEDLINE (1966 to May week 3 2002), CINAHL (1982 to April 2002), British Nursing Index (1994 to April 2002), EMBASE (1980 to Week 25 2002), AMED (1985 to April 2002), PsycINFO (1887 to April week 4 2002), SIGLE (1980 to March 2002), CancerLit (1975 to April 2002) and Dissertation Abstracts International (1861 to March 2002). Reference lists of relevant articles were searched for additional studies. SELECTION CRITERIA We sought randomised controlled trials (RCTs); controlled before and after studies; and interrupted time series studies of aromatherapy or massage, or both, for patients with cancer, that measured changes in patient-reported levels of physical or psychological distress or quality of life using reliable and valid tools. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion in the review, assessed study quality and extracted data. Study authors were contacted where information was unclear. MAIN RESULTS The search strategy retrieved 1322 studies. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria and these represented eight RCTs (357 participants). The most consistently found effect of massage or aromatherapy massage was on anxiety. Four trials (207 participants) measuring anxiety detected a reduction post intervention, with benefits of 19 to 32% reported. Contradictory evidence exists as to any additional benefit on anxiety conferred by the addition of aromatherapy. The evidence for the impact of massage/aromatherapy on depression was variable. Of the three trials (120 participants) that assessed depression in cancer patients, only one found any significant differences in this symptom. Three studies (117 participants) found a reduction in pain following intervention, and two (71 participants) found a reduction in nausea. Although several of the trials measured changes in other symptoms such as fatigue, anger, hostility, communication and digestive problems, none of these assessments was replicated. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Massage and aromatherapy massage confer short term benefits on psychological well being, with the effect on anxiety supported by limited evidence. Effects on physical symptoms may also occur. Evidence is mixed as to whether aromatherapy enhances the effects of massage. Replication, longer follow up, and larger trials are need to accrue the necessary evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Fellowes
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research and Development Unit, Marie Curie Cancer Care, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Royal Free and University College Medical School, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, London, UK, NW3 2PF
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Fujii M, Hatakeyama R, Fukuoka Y, Yamamoto T, Sasaki R, Moriya M, Kanno M, Sasaki H. Lavender aroma therapy for behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2008; 8:136-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1447-0594.2008.00461.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Focus group interviews: how aromatherapists feel about changing their practice through undertaking a randomised controlled trial? Complement Ther Clin Pract 2008; 14:204-11. [PMID: 18640632 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2008.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In 2003/2007 a randomised controlled trial (RCT) was undertaken into the efficacy of aromatherapy in reducing levels of anxiety amongst palliative care patients. In the study patients were randomised into one of three treatment groups. The participating aromatherapists treated patients according to a strict research protocol. As the trial commenced, the therapists indicated a concern about a potential loss of their holistic principles while undertaking the trial. These genuine concerns formed the impetus to undertake a qualitative study to illuminate the aromatherapists' experience of changing their practice. Findings and discussions are through the themes that emerged. It appears that participating in a RCT does impact on aromatherapists' holistic practice but equally important is their commitment to undertake the research.
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Chang SY. Effects of Aroma Hand Massage on Pain, State Anxiety and Depression in Hospice Patients with Terminal Cancer. J Korean Acad Nurs 2008; 38:493-502. [DOI: 10.4040/jkan.2008.38.4.493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- So Young Chang
- Doctoral Student, Department of Nursing, Keimyung University, Daegu, Korea
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Howard S, Hughes BM. Expectancies, not aroma, explain impact of lavender aromatherapy on psychophysiological indices of relaxation in young healthy women. Br J Health Psychol 2007; 13:603-17. [PMID: 17845737 DOI: 10.1348/135910707x238734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In aromatherapy, lavender aroma is reputed to assist with relaxation. However, while there is much anecdotal evidence to that effect, the empirical literature is very inconsistent. Failure to employ adequate placebos, proper blinding, objective measures, or screening of prior beliefs about aromatherapy means that many previous findings could have been influenced by expectancy biases. The present study sought to establish whether lavender aroma and/or expectancies affect post-stress relaxation. DESIGN A double-blind, 3 (aroma) x 3 (instruction) x 10 (time in minutes) mixed-factorial placebo-controlled trial. METHOD In a laboratory, 96 healthy undergraduate women were exposed to lavender, placebo, or no aroma during physiologically assessed relaxation after an arousing cognitive task. Where an aroma was presented, an instructional priming procedure was used to manipulate participants' expectancies about the aroma's likely impact on their ability to relax. RESULTS Results showed no effect of aroma on galvanic skin response during relaxation. However, the nature of instructional prime was associated with relaxation patterns: when expecting the aroma to inhibit them, participants relaxed more; when expecting facilitation, participants relaxed less. The effect was not seen with regard to self-reported relaxation (as represented by changes in state anxiety) and was independent of ratings of attitudes towards aromatherapy. CONCLUSIONS The findings imply that the previous associations of lavender aroma with assisted relaxation may have been influenced by expectancy biases, and that the relevant expectancies are easily manipulable.
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Wilkinson SM, Love SB, Westcombe AM, Gambles MA, Burgess CC, Cargill A, Young T, Maher EJ, Ramirez AJ. Effectiveness of Aromatherapy Massage in the Management of Anxiety and Depression in Patients With Cancer: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial. J Clin Oncol 2007; 25:532-9. [PMID: 17290062 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2006.08.9987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PurposeTo test the effectiveness of supplementing usual supportive care with aromatherapy massage in the management of anxiety and depression in cancer patients through a pragmatic two-arm randomized controlled trial in four United Kingdom cancer centers and a hospice.Patients and MethodsTwo hundred eighty-eight cancer patients, referred to complementary therapy services with clinical anxiety and/or depression, were allocated randomly to a course of aromatherapy massage or usual supportive care alone.ResultsPatients who received aromatherapy massage had no significant improvement in clinical anxiety and/or depression compared with those receiving usual care at 10 weeks postrandomization (odds ratio [OR], 1.3; 95% CI, 0.9 to 1.7; P = .1), but did at 6 weeks postrandomization (OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1 to 1.9; P = .01). Patients receiving aromatherapy massage also described greater improvement in self-reported anxiety at both 6 and 10 weeks postrandomization (OR, 3.4; 95% CI, 0.2 to 6.7; P = .04 and OR, 3.4; 95% CI, 0.2 to 6.6; P = .04), respectively.ConclusionAromatherapy massage does not appear to confer benefit on cancer patients’ anxiety and/or depression in the long-term, but is associated with clinically important benefit up to 2 weeks after the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susie M Wilkinson
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Unit, Royal Free and University College Medical School, Department of Mental Health Sciences, Cancer Research UK London Psychosocial Group, Institute of Psychiatry, London, United Kingdom
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Kyle G. Evaluating the effectiveness of aromatherapy in reducing levels of anxiety in palliative care patients: results of a pilot study. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2006; 12:148-55. [PMID: 16648093 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2005.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2005] [Revised: 10/10/2005] [Accepted: 11/07/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Results of the pilot study of the four counties randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of aromatherapy massage with 1% Santalum album (Sandalwood) (group A) when compared with massage with Sweet Almond Carrier oil, (group B) or Sandalwood oil via an aromastone (group C), in reducing levels of anxiety in palliative care. The aims of the pilot study were to evaluate the effectiveness of aromatherapy in reducing anxiety in patients receiving palliative care in four counties. The primary end points of the research were to report a statistically significant difference in anxiety scores between experimental group (B) and comparison groups (A and C) and to influence the integration of aromatherapy into all aspects of palliative care. The limited data of the pilot study (N=34) tested the logistics of the research, particularly the 25% attrition rate and the robustness of the data collection tools. The results were not substantial enough to generate coherent statistics. Therefore no assumptions could be drawn from these results due to the inconsistencies that were bound to occur in such a small sample. However, the results do seem to support the notion that Sandalwood oil is effective in reducing anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaye Kyle
- Thames Valley University, Slough, SL1 1YG, UK.
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Barclay J, Vestey J, Lambert A, Balmer C. Reducing the symptoms of lymphoedema: is there a role for aromatherapy? Eur J Oncol Nurs 2006; 10:140-9. [PMID: 16563861 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2005.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2005] [Revised: 10/14/2005] [Accepted: 10/19/2005] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Lymphoedema is a chronic and debilitating condition caused by lymphatic insufficiency, which may have serious physical, social and psychological implications for the patient. It is usually managed by a combination of strategies aimed at protecting and decongesting the oedematous limb(s) and stimulating the development of supplementary lymphatic pathways to control swelling in the long-term. However, it is not known which therapies are the most effective. Anecdotally, the addition of aromatherapy oils to massage cream may have a positive effect on symptom relief in people with cancer, although evidence is again lacking. This paper describes a randomized trial of self-massage and skin care using a cream containing aromatherapy oils versus self-massage and skin care using a cream without aromatherapy oils on objective limb volume measurements and symptom relief as measured by the Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile 2 (MYMOP2) in a sample of people with lymphoedema. Results indicate that self-massage and skin care significantly improved patient-identified symptom relief and wellbeing for this sample. It also slightly, but not significantly reduced limb volume. However, aromatherapy oils, carefully chosen on the basis that they should benefit this group, did not appear to influence any improvement in these measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Barclay
- Dorset Cancer Centre, Poole Hospital, Longfleet Road, Poole BH15 2JB, UK
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Abstract
Thirty years ago, the integration of complementary medicine into cancer care almost was dismissed as quackery. Today, a whole range of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) techniques have been integrated into the management of cancer, which are often of benefit to patients, when conventional treatment is deemed to have failed or caused intolerable side effects. Health care workers need to inquire about the use of CAM in their patients routinely in a sensitive and nonjudgmental way, and may need to advise patients to stop certain therapies. Yet in advanced cancer, a sensible balance needs to be struck between fear about adverse effects and interactions and the importance of making the remaining weeks/days/months as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of aromatherapy in nursing care continues to be popular in many settings. Most of the nursing literature relates to the use of essential oils in low doses for massage or use of the oils as environmental fragrances. Information from the wider literature may add to the evidence base for use of this therapy in nursing. AIM This paper reports a literature relating to the use of aromatherapy by nurses and critically evaluates the evidence to support this practice. METHOD Medline, CINAHL, MANTIS and EBSCO Host databases were searched for papers related to use of essential oils and/or aromatherapy. Papers were also obtained through cross-checking of reference lists. A total of 165 articles have been included in this review. Nursing papers were published since 1990 were included, but some references from 1971 onwards relating to scientific research conducted on essential oils were also included. These remain valuable as they are probably the only reference available for a specific oil or property, or show the development of knowledge in this area. Papers were excluded if they consisted only of brief case studies presented in abstract form. The review covers key professional issues and the principal areas of clinical practice where aromatherapy is used. FINDINGS Despite calls for more research in the 1980s and 1990s, there is still little empirical evidence to support the use of aromatherapy in nursing practice beyond enhancing relaxation. Its popularity needs to be balanced against the potential risks related to allergies, safety and inappropriate use by inexperienced users. CONCLUSIONS There is great potential for more collaborative research by nurses to explore the clinical applications in greater detail and to move beyond the low dose paradigm of application of essential oils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Maddocks-Jennings
- Universal College of Learning, and Nurse Clinician/Trainee Nurse Practitioner, Acute Pain Services, Midcentral Health, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
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Kohara H, Miyauchi T, Suehiro Y, Ueoka H, Takeyama H, Morita T. Combined Modality Treatment of Aromatherapy, Footsoak, and Reflexology Relieves Fatigue in Patients with Cancer. J Palliat Med 2004; 7:791-6. [PMID: 15684846 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2004.7.791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fatigue is one of the most distressful symptoms experienced by patients with advanced cancer. Aromatherapy, footsoak, and reflexology are popular health care modality treatments in Japan, however, the effectiveness of each treatment for cancer-related fatigue has not been fully established. DESIGN AND SUBJECTS To investigate the effectiveness of combined modality treatment consisting of aromatherapy, footsoak, and reflexology against fatigue, an open study was performed in 20 terminally ill patients with cancer. After a patch test was performed, patients received aromatherapy that was accompanied with footsoak in warm water containing lavender essential oil for 3 minutes, followed by reflexology treatment with jojoba oil containing lavender for 10 min. Fatigue was evaluated using the Cancer Fatigue Scale (CFS) before, 1 hour after, and 4 hours after treatment. RESULTS Total CFS scores improved significantly after this treatment (from 25.6 +/- 11.0 to 18.1 +/- 10.0, p < 0.001). Among three CFS subscales, physical and cognitive subscale scores were reduced significantly (11.3 +/- 6.1 to 6.7 +/- 6.1, p < 0.001; 4.5 +/- 3.2 to 2.4 +/- 2.4, p < 0.001). No adverse effects were experienced. Because all patients desired to continue this treatment, they received treatment eight times on average. CONCLUSIONS Combined modality treatment consisting of aromatherapy, footsoak, and reflexology appears to be effective for alleviating fatigue in terminally ill cancer patients. To confirm safety and effectiveness of this combined modality treatment, further investigation including randomized treatment assignment is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Kohara
- Department of Internal Medicine, Palliative Care Unit, National Sanyo Hospital, Yamaguchi, Japan.
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Hernandez-Reif M, Ironson G, Field T, Hurley J, Katz G, Diego M, Weiss S, Fletcher MA, Schanberg S, Kuhn C, Burman I. Breast cancer patients have improved immune and neuroendocrine functions following massage therapy. J Psychosom Res 2004; 57:45-52. [PMID: 15256294 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-3999(03)00500-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2002] [Accepted: 06/11/2003] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Women with breast cancer are at risk for elevated depression, anxiety, and decreased natural killer (NK) cell number. Stress has been linked to increased tumor development by decreasing NK cell activity. The objectives of this study included examining massage therapy for women with breast cancer for (1) improving mood and biological measures associated with mood enhancement (serotonin, dopamine), (2) reducing stress and stress hormone levels, and (3) boosting immune measures. METHODS Thirty-four women (M age=53) diagnosed with Stage 1 or 2 breast cancer were randomly assigned postsurgery to a massage therapy group (to receive 30-min massages three times per week for 5 weeks) or a control group. The massage consisted of stroking, squeezing, and stretching techniques to the head, arms, legs/feet, and back. On the first and last day of the study, the women were assessed on (1) immediate effects measures of anxiety, depressed mood, and vigor and (2) longer term effects on depression, anxiety and hostility, functioning, body image, and avoidant versus intrusive coping style, in addition to urinary catecholamines (norepinephrine, epinephrine, and dopamine) and serotonin levels. A subset of 27 women (n=15 massage) had blood drawn to assay immune measures. RESULTS The immediate massage therapy effects included reduced anxiety, depressed mood, and anger. The longer term massage effects included reduced depression and hostility and increased urinary dopamine, serotonin values, NK cell number, and lymphocytes. CONCLUSIONS Women with Stage 1 and 2 breast cancer may benefit from thrice-weekly massage therapy for reducing depressed mood, anxiety, and anger and for enhancing dopamine, serotonin, and NK cell number and lymphocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Hernandez-Reif
- Touch Research Institutes, University of Miami School of Medicine, 1601 NW 12th Avenue, Room 7037, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
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Wilcock A, Manderson C, Weller R, Walker G, Carr D, Carey AM, Broadhurst D, Mew J, Ernst E. Does aromatherapy massage benefit patients with cancer attending a specialist palliative care day centre? Palliat Med 2004; 18:287-90. [PMID: 15198118 DOI: 10.1191/0269216304pm895oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
A randomised controlled pilot study was carried out to examine the effects of adjunctive aromatherapy massage on mood, quality of life and physical symptoms in patients with cancer attending a specialist unit. Participants were randomised to conventional day care alone or day care plus weekly aromatherapy massage using a standardised blend of oils for four weeks. At baseline and at weekly intervals, patients rated their mood, quality of life and the intensity and bother of two symptoms most important to them. Forty-six patients were recruited to the study. Due to a large number of withdrawals, only 11 of 23 (48%) patients in the aromatherapy group and 18 of 23 (78%) in the control group completed all four weeks. Mood, physical symptoms and quality of life improved in both groups. There was no statistically significant difference between groups in any of the outcome measures. Despite a lack of measurable benefit, all patients were satisfied with the aromatherapy and wished to continue. Whilst this pilot study has shown that a randomised controlled trial of complementary therapy is feasible, it has also identified several areas that would require further consideration when designing future studies, e.g., the recruitment and retention of appropriate numbers of patients and the outcome measures used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Wilcock
- Hayward House Macmillan Specialist Palliative Care Cancer Unit, Nottingham City Hospital NHS Trust, Hucknall Road, Nottingham NG5 1PB, UK.
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Molassiotis A, Cubbin D. 'Thinking outside the box': complementary and alternative therapies use in paediatric oncology patients. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2004; 8:50-60. [PMID: 15003744 DOI: 10.1016/s1462-3889(03)00054-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use among children with cancer who had received or were receiving treatment at a large hospital in the UK, including the identification of the most commonly used therapies and parental motives for doing so. Using a cross-sectional survey design, questionnaires were sent to parents of paediatric patients diagnosed with cancer. Of the 49 respondents, 32.7% reported using some type of CAM. The most commonly used therapies included multivitamins, aromatherapy massage, diets and music as therapy. Most children had used more than one therapy. Many of the factors that motivated parents to use CAM were related to helping or supporting their child's medical treatment. The main benefits identified from using CAM included increased confidence, pain relief and relaxation. The longer the time since diagnosis the more children tended to use CAM. The reasons for parents not using CAM included the child doing well and therefore not seeing the need for CAM use; not being aware of CAM; CAM not being offered and lack of information available. Parents identified a need for more information to be available both at ward level and for information about CAM to be discussed by medical staff, particularly at the start of treatment. The results indicate that CAM is frequently used by children and young people with cancer and that their use plays a substantial role in helping children through their conventional cancer treatment.
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Soden K, Vincent K, Craske S, Lucas C, Ashley S. A randomized controlled trial of aromatherapy massage in a hospice setting. Palliat Med 2004; 18:87-92. [PMID: 15046404 DOI: 10.1191/0269216304pm874oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Aromatherapy massage is a commonly used complementary therapy, and is employed in cancer and palliative care largely to improve quality of life and reduce psychological distress. OBJECTIVES To investigate whether aromatherapy and/or massage decreases psychological morbidity, lessens symptom distress and/or improves the quality of life in patients with a diagnosis of cancer. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched CENTRAL (Cochrane Library Issue 1 2002), MEDLINE (1966 to May week 3 2002), CINAHL (1982 to April 2002), British Nursing Index (1994 to April 2002), EMBASE (1980 to Week 25 2002), AMED (1985 to April 2002), PsycINFO (1887 to April week 4 2002), SIGLE (1980 to March 2002), CancerLit (1975 to April 2002) and Dissertation Abstracts International (1861 to March 2002). Reference lists of relevant articles were searched for additional studies. SELECTION CRITERIA We sought randomised controlled trials; controlled before and after studies; and interrupted time series studies of aromatherapy and/or massage for patients with cancer, that measured changes in patient-reported levels of physical or psychological distress or quality of life using reliable and valid tools. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two reviewers independently assessed trials for inclusion in the review, assessed study quality and extracted data. Study authors were contacted where information was unclear. MAIN RESULTS The search strategy retrieved 1322 references. Ten reports met the inclusion criteria and these represented eight RCTs (357 patients). The most consistently found effect of massage or aromatherapy massage was on anxiety. Four trials (207 patients) measuring anxiety detected a reduction post intervention, with benefits of 19-32% reported. Contradictory evidence exists as to any additional benefit on anxiety conferred by the addition of aromatherapy. The evidence for the impact of massage/aromatherapy on depression was variable. Of the three trials (120 patients) that assessed depression in cancer patients, only one found any significant differences in this symptom. Three studies (117 patients) found a reduction in pain following intervention, and two (71 patients) found a reduction in nausea. Although several of the trials measured changes in other symptoms such as fatigue, anger, hostility, communication and digestive problems, none of these assessments was replicated. REVIEWERS' CONCLUSIONS Massage and aromatherapy massage confer short term benefits on psychological wellbeing, with the effect on anxiety supported by limited evidence. Effects on physical symptoms may also occur. Evidence is mixed as to whether aromatherapy enhances the effects of massage. Replication, longer follow up, and larger trials are need to accrue the necessary evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Fellowes
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research and Development Unit, Marie Curie Cancer Care, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Royal Free and University College Medical School, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, London, UK, NW3 2PF
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Richards K, Nagel C, Markie M, Elwell J, Barone C. Use of complementary and alternative therapies to promote sleep in critically ill patients. Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am 2003; 15:329-40. [PMID: 12943139 DOI: 10.1016/s0899-5885(02)00051-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The efficacy of complementary and alternative therapies for sleep promotion in critically ill patients is largely unexamined. We found only seven studies (three on environmental interventions and one each on massage, music therapy, therapeutic touch, and, melatonin) that examined the effect of complementary and alternative therapies. A number of studies, however, have shown that massage, music therapy. and therapeutic touch promote relaxation and comfort in critically ill patients, which likely leads to improved sleep. Massage, music therapy, and therapeutic touch are safe for critically ill patients and should be routinely applied by ICU nurses who have received training on how to administer these specialized interventions. Environmental interventions, such as reducing noise, playing white noise such as ocean sounds, and decreasing interruptions to sleep for care, also are safe and logical interventions that ICU nurses should use to help patients sleep. Progressive muscle relaxation has been extensively studied and shown to be efficacious for improving sleep in persons with insomnia; however, progressive muscle relaxation requires that patients consciously attend to relaxing specific muscle groups and practice these techniques, which may be difficult for critically 11 patients. We do not currently recommend aromatherapy and alternative sedatives, such as valerian and melatonin, for sleep promotion in critically ill patients because the safety of these substances is unclear. In summary, we recommend that ICU nurses implement music therapy, environmental interventions, therapeutic touch, and relaxing massage to promote sleep in critically ill patients. These interventions are safe and may improve patient sleep, although randomized controlled trials are needed to test their efficacy. Aromatherapy and alternative sedatives require further investigation to determine their safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathy Richards
- Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, 2200 Fort Roots Drive, 3J/NLRVA, North Little Rock, AR 72114, USA.
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Graham PH, Browne L, Cox H, Graham J. Inhalation aromatherapy during radiotherapy: results of a placebo-controlled double-blind randomized trial. J Clin Oncol 2003; 21:2372-6. [PMID: 12805340 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2003.10.126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether the inhalation of aromatherapy during radiotherapy reduces anxiety. PATIENTS AND METHODS Three hundred thirteen patients undergoing radiotherapy were randomly assigned to receive either carrier oil with fractionated oils, carrier oil only, or pure essential oils of lavender, bergamot, and cedarwood administered by inhalation concurrently with radiation treatment. Patients underwent assessment by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Somatic and Psychological Health Report (SPHERE) at baseline and at treatment completion. RESULTS There were no significant differences in HADS depression or SPHERE scores between the randomly assigned groups. However, HADS anxiety scores were significantly lower at treatment completion in the carrier oil only group compared with either of the fragrant arms (P =.04). CONCLUSION Aromatherapy, as administered in this study, is not beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Graham
- Cancer Care Centre, St George Hospital, Gray St, Kogarah, Australia, 2217.
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Westcombe AM, Gambles MA, Wilkinson SM, Barnes K, Fellowes D, Maher EJ, Young T, Love SB, Lucey RA, Cubbin S, Ramirez AJ. Learning the hard way! Setting up an RCT of aromatherapy massage for patients with advanced cancer. Palliat Med 2003; 17:300-7. [PMID: 12822844 DOI: 10.1191/0269216303pm769rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Aromatherapy massage is used in cancer palliative care to improve quality of life but there is little evidence for its effectiveness. A large pragmatic multicentre randomized controlled trial was set up to examine the effectiveness of aromatherapy in improving psychological distress and quality of life in patients with cancer. This paper examines the challenges encountered in the design and execution of the study. The original design, i) focused on palliative care patients with advanced disease; ii) had both a no-intervention and a treatment control group (relaxation therapy); and iii) adopted 90% power for sample size calculations. A varied measurement strategy was employed. Recruitment proved difficult, referrers were 'gate-keeping', patients were often too ill to approach and others declined. The trial was modified to ensure viability. Eligibility was extended to all patients with cancer irrespective of stage, the relaxation group was removed and the power reduced to 80%. Although it is not generally good practice to change a study design once recruitment has started, the changes were consistent with the original basic study aims and design principles. The data collection phase was successfully completed in July 2002.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Westcombe
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research and Development Unit, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Sciences, Royal Free & University College Medical School, Hampstead, London, UK
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Louis M, Kowalski SD. Use of aromatherapy with hospice patients to decrease pain, anxiety, and depression and to promote an increased sense of well-being. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2002; 19:381-6. [PMID: 12442972 DOI: 10.1177/104990910201900607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study measured the responses of 17 cancer hospice patients to humidified essential lavender oil aromatherapy. Vital signs as well as levels of pain, anxiety, depression, and sense of well-being were measured (using 11-point verbal analogs). Each subject was measured on three different days before and after a 60-minute session consisting of (1) no treatment (control); (2) water humidification (control); or (3) 3-percent lavender aromatherapy. Results reflected a positive, yet small, change in blood pressure and pulse, pain, anxiety, depression, and sense of well-being after both the humidified water treatment and the lavender treatment. Following the control session (no treatment), there was also slight improvement in vital signs, depression, and sense of well-being, but not in pain or anxiety levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Louis
- Department of Nursing, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, USA
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Dunwoody L, Smyth A, Davidson R. Cancer patients' experiences and evaluations of aromatherapy massage in palliative care. Int J Palliat Nurs 2002; 8:497-504. [PMID: 12419989 DOI: 10.12968/ijpn.2002.8.10.10696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Many patients suffering from cancer make use of complementary therapies, with aromatherapy being a popular choice. Quantitative studies, using questionnaire data, have shown that aromatherapy may reduce psychological distress and enhance symptom control in cancer patients. However, little is known about the personal meanings patients associate with the therapy. This study explored the patients' experiences of aromatherapy using of a focus group interview. Eight themes emerged from the analysis, six of which have been acknowledged to some extent by previous authors: de-stressing effects of aromatherapy, the counselling role of the aromatherapist, aromatherapy as a reward, patient empowerment, communication through touch, and negative aspects of the service. Two apparently new themes emerged concerned with security of context (where the aromatherapy took place) and preconceived perceptions of the value of aromatherapy as a treatment of cancer patients. The implications of the findings are discussed in relation to the perceived role of counselling, collaborative practice and training in complementary therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Dunwoody
- University of Ulster, Jordanstown, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
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Abstract
Essential oils distilled from members of the genus Lavandula have been used both cosmetically and therapeutically for centuries with the most commonly used species being L. angustifolia, L. latifolia, L. stoechas and L. x intermedia. Although there is considerable anecdotal information about the biological activity of these oils much of this has not been substantiated by scientific or clinical evidence. Among the claims made for lavender oil are that is it antibacterial, antifungal, carminative (smooth muscle relaxing), sedative, antidepressive and effective for burns and insect bites. In this review we detail the current state of knowledge about the effect of lavender oils on psychological and physiological parameters and its use as an antimicrobial agent. Although the data are still inconclusive and often controversial, there does seem to be both scientific and clinical data that support the traditional uses of lavender. However, methodological and oil identification problems have severely hampered the evaluation of the therapeutic significance of much of the research on Lavandula spp. These issues need to be resolved before we have a true picture of the biological activities of lavender essential oil.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M A Cavanagh
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
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Holmes C, Hopkins V, Hensford C, MacLaughlin V, Wilkinson D, Rosenvinge H. Lavender oil as a treatment for agitated behaviour in severe dementia: a placebo controlled study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2002; 17:305-8. [PMID: 11994882 DOI: 10.1002/gps.593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether aromatherapy with lavender oil is effective in the treatment of agitated behaviour in patients with severe dementia. DESIGN A placebo controlled trial with blinded observer rater. SETTING A long-stay psychogeriatric ward. PATIENTS Fifteen patients meeting ICD-10 diagnostic criteria for severe dementia and suffering from agitated behaviour defined as a minimum score of three points on the Pittsburgh Agitation Scale (PAS). INTERVENTION A 2% lavender oil aromatherapy stream was administered on the ward for a two hour period alternated with placebo (water) every other day for a total of ten treatment sessions. ASSESSMENTS For each subject 10 total PAS scores were obtained. Five during treatment and five during placebo periods. RESULTS Nine patients (60%) showed an improvement, five (33%) showed no change and one patient (7%) showed a worsening of agitated behaviour during aromatherapy compared with placebo. A comparison of the group median PAS scores during aromatherapy showed a significant improvement in agitated behaviour during aromatherapy compared with placebo (median PAS scores 3 c.f. 4; Wilcoxon Signed-Ranks test p = 0.016 (one-tailed)). CONCLUSIONS Lavender oil administered in an aroma stream shows modest efficacy in the treatment of agitated behaviour in patients with severe dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clive Holmes
- University of Southampton, School of Medicine, Community Clinical Sciences Research Division, Memory Assessment and Research Unit, Moorgreen Hospital, Southampton, UK.
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Hadfield N. The role of aromatherapy massage in reducing anxiety in patients with malignant brain tumours. Int J Palliat Nurs 2001; 7:279-85. [PMID: 12066022 DOI: 10.12968/ijpn.2001.7.6.9025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Research suggests that aromatherapy massage (AM) is increasingly being used by cancer patients, especially in the palliative care setting, although few studies have assessed its effectiveness. I wanted to find out whether AM reduces anxiety in patients with a primary malignant brain tumour attending their first follow-up appointment after radiotherapy. Eight patients were recruited to the study, which comprised three methods of data collection: the measurement of physical parameters; the completion of Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales (HADS); and semi-structured interviews. The results from HADS did not show any psychological benefit from AM. However, there was a statistically significant reduction in all four physical parameters, which suggests that AM affects the autonomic nervous system, inducing relaxation. This finding was supported by the patients themselves, all of whom stated during interview that they felt 'relaxed' after AM. Since these patients are faced with limited treatment options and a poor prognosis, this intervention appears to be a good way of offering support and improving quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Hadfield
- Radiotherapy Department, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
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