Back to Search Start Over

Effect of inhaled essential oils on mental exhaustion and moderate burnout: a small pilot study.

Authors :
Varney E
Buckle J
Source :
Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.) [J Altern Complement Med] 2013 Jan; Vol. 19 (1), pp. 69-71. Date of Electronic Publication: 2012 Nov 09.
Publication Year :
2013

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.<br />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.<br />Settings/location: Participants used a personal inhaler at home or at work.<br />Subjects: The subjects comprised a convenience sample of 13 women and 1 man who each had self-assessed ME/MB.<br />Interventions: Participants were randomized to receive a personal inhaler containing either a mixture of essential oils or rose water (as used in Indian cooking).<br />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.<br />Results: While both groups had a reduction in perception of ME/MB, the aromatherapy group had a much greater reduction.<br />Conclusions: The results suggest that inhaling essential oils may reduce the perceived level of mental fatigue/burnout. Further research is warranted.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1557-7708
Volume :
19
Issue :
1
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.)
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
23140115
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2012.0089