Research - Essential Oils / Aromatherapy
The Effects of Various Essential Oils on Epilepsy and Acute Seizure: A Systematic Review
Tyler A. Bahr,1,2 Damian Rodriguez,1 Cody Beaumont,1 and Kathryn Allred1
Abstract
Many essential oils (EOs) have anticonvulsant activity and might benefit people with epilepsy. Lemongrass, lavender, clove, dill, and other EOs containing constituents such as asarone, carvone, citral, eugenol, or linalool are good candidates for evaluation as antiepileptic drugs. On the other hand, some EOs have convulsant effects and may trigger seizures in both epileptic and healthy individuals. Internal use of EOs like sage, hyssop, rosemary, camphor, pennyroyal, eucalyptus, cedar, thuja, and fennel can cause epileptic seizures because they contain thujone, 1,8-cineole, camphor, or pinocamphone, which have been identified as convulsive agents. While more research is needed to confirm their mechanisms of action, it appears that the convulsant or anticonvulsant properties of essential oils are largely due to (1) their ability to modulate the GABAergic system of neurotransmission and (2) their capacity to alter ionic currents through ion channels. This review presents a systematic analysis of the current research on EOs and epilepsy, including human case studies, animal models, and in vitro studies.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Citrus aurantium Aroma for Anxiety in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial
Farhad Moslemi, , Fatemeh Alijaniha, , Mohsen Naseri, , Anoshirvan Kazemnejad, , Mahsa Charkhkar, , and Mohammad Reza Heidar
Abstract
Objective: This study evaluated the antianxiety effect of Citrus aurantium aroma (neroli oil) inhalation on patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
Design: A double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial.
Setting/Location: This study was conducted in the Coronary Care Unit of Torfeh Hospital in Tehran, Iran, from September 2017 to February 2018.
Subjects: A total of 140 hospitalized ACS patients (mean age = 56.72 ± 11.38 years)
Interventions: Eligible patients were randomly assigned to citrus aroma and placebo groups to receive inhalation aromatherapy 2 days after hospitalization. Citrus aroma was 30% essential oil of Citrus aurantium L. flowers in paraffin, which was administrated three times a day. The placebo group received paraffin similarly.
Outcome measures: The rate of anxiety was measured at baseline and after intervention using the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory.
Results: At baseline, citrus aroma and placebo groups were similar in demographic characteristics as well as anxiety scores. After intervention, mean anxiety scores in the two groups become significantly different; the scores were 34.66 ± 9.6 and 42.36 ± 6.4 for citrus aroma and placebo groups, respectively (p < 0.0001). No side effect was observed.
Conclusions: According to the current findings, aromatherapy with Citrus aurantium L. aroma (neroli oil) may be a safe and efficient intervention and can be considered an easy and applicable method to reduce anxiety in patients with ACS.
Source : Journal Alternative and Complementary Medicine
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Curcumin and Fennel Essential Oil Improve Symptoms and Quality of Life in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Piero Portincasa1*, Leonilde Bonfrate1*, Maria Lia Scribano2 , Anna Kohn2 , Nicola Caporaso3 , Davide Festi4 , Maria Chiara Campanale5 , Teresa Di Rienzo5 , Maria Guarino3 , Martina Taddia4 , Maria Vittoria Fogli6 , Maria Grimaldi6 , Antonio Gasbarrini5
Abstract
Background & Aims: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) patients still require effective treatment. The antiinflammatory property of curcumin and the antispasmodic and carminative effect of fennel suggests that combination of these nutraceutical compounds would be useful in functional bowel disorders including IBS. We assessed the efficacy and tolerability of a combination of curcumin and fennel essential oil (CU-FEO) in IBS symptoms relief.
Methods: 121 patients with mild-to-moderate symptoms of IBS defined by an Irritable Bowel Syndromesymptom severity score (IBS-SSS) 100-300 and abdominal pain score 30-70 on a 100 mm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), were randomly assigned to CU-FEO or placebo (2 capsules b.d. for 30 days). Primary endpoint was the mean decrease of IBS-SSS at the end of the treatment corrected for the mean baseline score (relative decrease). The impact of the treatment on quality of life was assessed through IBS-QoL questionnaire.
Results: CU-FEO was safe, well-tolerated and induced symptom relief in patients with IBS; a significant decrease in the mean relative IBS-SSS was observed after 30 days of treatment (50.05 ± 28.85% vs 26.12 ± 30.62%, P<0.001). This result matched the reduction of abdominal pain and all the other symptoms of IBSSSS. The percentage of symptom-free patients was significantly higher in the CU-FEO than in the placebo group (25.9% vs. 6.8%, P = 0.005). All domains of IBS-QoL improved consistently.
Conclusion: CU-FEO significantly improved symptoms and quality of life in IBS patients over 30 days
Source : Journal Gastrointestin Liver Dis.
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Aromatherapy, botanicals, and essential oils in acne
Winkelman WJ1.
Abstract
Complementary and alternative medicine approaches are popular among some patient segments due to the perception that they are "natural" and thus are believed to be less likely to be dangerous, to be less toxic, or to cause fewer side effects. In dermatology, these can include aromatherapy, botanicals, and essential oils (plant extracts). Preliminary evidence, biological activity studies, and small pilot clinical trials conducted outside of North America, mostly in young adults, suggest that some may have value in acne treatment. When additional research and larger clinical trials are conducted, both clinicians and patients will be able to understand the risks and benefits compared with allopathic remedies.
Source : Journal Clinics in Dermatology
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The Effectiveness of Aromatherapy in Reducing Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Shaheen E. Lakhan,1,2 Heather Sheafer,1and Deborah Tepper3
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.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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The nitrergic neurotransmission contributes to the anxiolytic‐like effect of Citrus sinensis essential oil in animal models
Palloma de A.S. Hocayen,Etiele Wendler, Débora D. Vecchia, Luiz K.S. Kanazawa, Ana Carolina Issy, Elaine Del Bel, Roberto Andreatini
Abstract
Citrus fragrances have been used in aromatherapy for the treatment of anxiety, and the essential oil of Citrus sinensis (sweet orange) has shown promising results, although its mechanism of action was not known. The objective of this study was to evaluate the involvement of nitric oxide (NO) neurotransmission in the anxiolytic‐like effect of C. sinensis essential oil. Swiss male mice were submitted to 15 min of C. sinensis essential oil inhalation (1%, 2.5%, 5%, and 10%) and tested in the marble‐burying test, neophobia‐induced hypophagia, and light/dark test. Locomotor activity was evaluated in an automated locomotor activity box. The coadministration of C. sinensis essential oil with L‐arginine (200 mg/kg, i.p.), an NO precursor, was used for the behavioral evaluation of nitrergic system mediation. Additionally, the NO synthase activity was measured by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate diaphorase (NADPH‐d) analysis in the cerebral cortex. C. sinensis essential oil exerted anxiolytic‐like effect at dose that did not change locomotor activity. Moreover, L‐arginine pretreatment prevented this anxiolytic‐like effect on marble‐burying test. Finally, C. sinensis essential oil reduced the NADPH‐d positive cells. Thus, the nitrergic neurotransmission plays a relevant role in the anxiolytic‐like effect C. sinensis essential oil.
Source : Journal Phytotherapy Research
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The effects of aromatherapy using rose oil (Rosa damascena Mill.) on preoperative anxiety: A prospective randomized clinical trial
RecaiDagli a, Mustafa Avcu b, Mehmet Metin b, Sultan Kiymaz c Harun Ciftci
Abstract
Introduction
Preoperative anxiety is a common problem before anesthesia. Pharmacologic agents or nonpharmacologic methods are widely used to reduce preoperative anxiety. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of aromatherapy with rose oil on preoperative anxiety.
Methods
This study was a prospective, randomized, controlled trial. The patients (n = 99) were randomized as the control group (group C), the sham group (group S) and the rose oil group (group R). The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory- State Questionnaire of Spielberger (STAI-S) was used to determine anxiety levels. The first STAI-S (Q_1) was administered in the otorhinolaryngology clinic in the morning on the day of the operation. Group C received no intervention. In group S, a mixture (distilled water/ethyl alcohol) and in group R, a mixture (distilled water/ethyl alcohol/ 0.2 mL rose oil (Rosa damascena Mill.)) was used with the ultrasonic aroma diffuser. Aromatherapy was applied by an ultrasonic nebulizer for 15 min before patients went to the operating room for surgery in group S and group R.In the operating room, the second STAI-S (Q_2) were recorded.
Results
There was no statistical significant difference between the groups at baseline in terms of Q_1 scores, but when the second STAI- S was administered after the intervention, there was a significant difference in Q_2 scores (43.15 ± 7.55, 36.03 ± 9.60, respectively, 95% CI, 38.39–43.12, P = .004) between group C and R.
Conclusions
The application of rose oil aromatherapy by inhalation reduced the scores of preoperative anxiety of patients undergoing septorhinoplasty/rhinoplasty.
Source : European Journal of Integrative Medicine
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Effectiveness of Aromatherapy Massage and Inhalation on Symptoms of Depression in Chinese Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Mei Xiong, MS,* Yanzhang Li, PhD,* Ping Tang, PhD, Yuping Zhang, PhD, Min Cao, MS, Junwei Ni, MS, and Mengmeng Xing, MS
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 mL (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 mL 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 Questionnaire9 (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.
Source : Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
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Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Origanum vulgare, and Curcuma longa Essential Oils: Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial and Antileishmanial Activity
Amanda Mara Teles,1,2 Taynan Dulce da Silva Rosa,3 Adenilde NascimentoMouchrek,1 Ana Lucia Abreu-Silva,3 Kátia da Silva Calabrese,4 and Fernando Almeida-Souza
Abstract
The resistance mechanisms of bacteria and protozoans have evidenced the need of discover new compounds with potential pharmaceutical activity against pathogenic microorganisms. Medicinal plants have been for centuries a promising alternative as sources of new drugs. The objective of this work was to evaluate the chemical composition, antimicrobial and antileishmanial activities of Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Origanum vulgare, and Curcuma longa essential oils. Chemical analysis was performed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Antimicrobial activity was performed by disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test. Antileishmanial activity was performed against antipromastigote and intracellular amastigote ofLeishmania amazonensis. Cytotoxic and nitrite production were realized in BALB/c peritoneal macrophages. The major compounds of the essential oils were cinnamic aldehyde (46.30%) in C. zeylanicum, cis-p-menth-2-en-1-ol (33.88%) and linalyl acetate (13.90%) in O. vulgare, and turmerone (55.43%) in C. longa. The MIC showed significant antimicrobial activity of C. longa essential oil against S. aureus (83.3 ± 14.43 µg/mL). Antipromastigote activity showed IC50 values >500 µg/mL to C. zeylanicum, 308.4 ± 1.402 µg/mL to O. vulgare, and 405.5 ± 1.119 µg/mL to C. longa essential oil. Activity against intracellular amastigote of L. amazonensis showed IC50 of 63.3 ± 1.369 µg/mL and cytotoxic was not observed, resulting in selectivity index higher than 15.79 to parasite. C. longa essential oil decreased nitrite production in peritoneal macrophages, but not inLeishmania-infected cells. The chemical composition of the three essential oils is directly associated to its potential biological action, as the antimicrobial activity. C. longa presented a potent antileishmanial activity against promastigote and intracellular amastigote of L. amazonensis, although this activity is not linked to nitric oxide, since C. longa essential oil inhibits its production.
Source Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Fennel oil: A promising antifungal agent against biofilm forming fluconazole resistant Candida albicans causing vulvovaginal candidiasis
Rasha H.BassyouniaIman E.Walib Zeinat Kamelc Mai Fareg Kassim
Abstract
Aim
To screen the antimicrobial activities of some plant essential oils against clinical isolates of C. albicans causing vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and to investigate the antifungal effect of the most active one against planktonic and sessile cells compared to fluconazole.
Methods
Screening of biofilm production by C. albicans causing VVC was performed by tissue culture plate method. The antifungal susceptibility of fluconazole was performed by disk diffusion method. Antifungal activities of nine essential oils were screened against strong biofilm-producer, fluconazole-resistant or dose-dependently susceptible clinical isolates and Candida albicans ATCC10,231 by well diffusion method. Determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of fennel essential oil and fluconazole against planktonic and sessile cells were performed by microdilution methods. Determination of the combined antimicrobial activity of fennel oil and fluconazole was evaluated by checkerboard microdilution assay.
Results
From 19 C. albicans strains, 10/19 showed strong ability to form biofilms. None of the tested clinical isolates was sensitive to fluconazole. Fennel oil had significantly higher antifungal activities against tested C. albicanscompared with other tested oils (P = 0.000). The MICs of fennel oil for planktonic cells ranged from 0.78% to 6.25% with MIC50 of 3.12% and MIC90 of 6.25%, while concentrations ranging between 6.25% and 25% resulted in 50% biofilm reduction. Synergy or addition between fennel oil and fluconazole were detected against 7/11 strains, while no antagonism was detected.
Conclusion
Fennel oil alone or in combination with fluconazole could provide a promising approach to the management of VVC caused by drug-resistant strains.
Source : Journal Herbal Medicine
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Effects of Aromatherapy on the Anxiety, Vital Signs, and Sleep Quality of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Patients in Intensive Care Units
Mi-Yeon Cho,1 Eun Sil Min,2 Myung-Haeng Hur,2 and Myeong Soo Lee
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of aromatherapy on the anxiety, sleep, and blood pressure (BP) of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) patients in an intensive care unit (ICU). Fifty-six patients with PCI in ICU were evenly allocated to either the aromatherapy or conventional nursing care. Aromatherapy essential oils were blended with lavender, roman chamomile, and neroli with a 6 : 2 : 0.5 ratio. Participants received 10 times treatment before PCI, and the same essential oils were inhaled another 10 times after PCI. Outcome measures patients' state anxiety, sleeping quality, and BP. An aromatherapy group showed significantly low anxiety (t=5.99, P < .001) and improving sleep quality (t=-3.65, P=.001) compared with conventional nursing intervention. The systolic BP of both groups did not show a significant difference by time or in a group-by-time interaction; however, a significant difference was observed between groups (F=4.63, P=0.36). The diastolic BP did not show any significant difference by time or by a group-by-time interaction; however, a significant difference was observed between groups (F=6.39, P=.011 ). In conclusion, the aromatherapy effectively reduced the anxiety levels and increased the sleep quality of PCI patients admitted to the ICU. Aromatherapy may be used as an independent nursing intervention for reducing the anxiety levels and improving the sleep quality of PCI patients.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Anxiolytic Effect of Citrus aurantium L. in Crack Users
Gabriel Chaves Neto,1 João Euclides Fernandes Braga,2 Mateus Feitosa Alves,3Liana Clébia de Morais Pordeus,1 Sócrates Golzio dos Santos,4 Marcus TulliusScotti,3 Reinaldo N. Almeida,1 and Margareth de Fátima Formiga Melo Diniz1
1Postgraduate Program in Neuroscience Cognitive and Behavior, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
2Department of Nursing and Collective Health, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
3Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
4Institute of Research in Drugs and Medicines, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
AbstractThe objective of this study was to investigate the anxiolytic effects of the essential oil (EO) of Citrus aurantium L. in patients experiencing crack withdrawal. This was developed with internal users in therapeutic communities in Paraíba, Brazil. The test population consisted of 51 volunteers, subdivided into three groups. To elicit anxiety, the Simulated Public Speaking (SPS) method was used. Physiological measures were assessed at specific phases during the experiment using appropriate equipment. Psychological measures of anxiety were assessed using the Trait-State Anxiety Inventory (IDATE) and the Analog Smoke Scale (HAS). EO was administered by nebulization. The experiment was developed in individual sessions and consolidated to four phases. The results demonstrated that the test subjects in the groups that were given the EO maintained controlled anxiety levels during SPS, when compared to the Control Group (no treatment). Subjects who used the EO also maintained levels of “discomfort” and “cognitive impairment” during SPS. It was concluded that individuals who are experiencing internal crack cocaine withdrawal present high anxiety traits and that nebulization of the EO of Citrus aurantium L. provided an acute anxiolytic effect in crack cocaine users exposed to SPS.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Aromatherapy for the Treatment of Patients with Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia: A Descriptive Analysis of RCTs
Sandler Olga, Freud Tamar, Volkov Ilya, Peleg Roni, and Press Yan.
Abstract
Background: Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are a common problem among patients with dementia. This problem is usually treated by drugs, but they have limited efficacy and often cause adverse effects. Aromatherapy is a nonpharmacologic treatment that is simple to use and devoid of significant adverse effects.
Objectives: To review the literature on the effectiveness of aromatherapy treatment in patients with BPSD.
Design: A descriptive analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published in the English-language literature and cited in PubMed.
Results: Eleven articles on RCTs were found, of which 1 had fewer than 10 participants, 2 were mistakenly presented as RCTs, and another did not report treatment for BPSD. In all, 7 articles with 417 participants total (range, 15–114) were reviewed. The mean age in all studies was greater than 69 years (range, 69–85 years), and the percentage of women was 55% (range, 50%–57%). The intervention period ranged from 10 days to 12 weeks. Two studies used Melissa oil and 5 others used lavender oil. The studies described different methods of administration for the oils, including spraying and rubbing over various body organs. The duration of treatment differed among the studies. In 3 studies the investigators concluded that the treatment was not effective and in 3 that it was effective; in 1 study no clear conclusion could be drawn.
Conclusions: The difference between positive and negative studies was not explained by differences in the study population, the type of oil, or the duration of treatment. The significant difference apparently stems from the method of administration. When the oil was applied close to the olfactory system the outcome was positive. A study should be designed to assess the effect of the site of application of aromatherapy.
Source : Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
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Chemical composition, antimicrobial and antibiotic potentiating activity of essential oils from 10 tropical medicinal plants from Mauritius
Hightlights
• Essential oils (EOs) from 10 tropical medicinal plants were extracted by hydrodistillation.
• Eighteen microorganisms were used to evaluate the antimicrobial potential of the EOs as well as their ability to potentiate conventional antibiotics.
• EOs showed potent bactericidal, fungicidal and antibiotic potentiating activity.
• Twenty eight major compounds were identified using GC–MS composed of monoterpenes hydrocarbons.
• Studied EOs may be exploited as complementary and alternative therapies against infectious diseases.
Abstract
Infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance have become a public health issue of increasing magnitude. The discovery and development of new antimicrobial agents from herbal medicine to address this problem has attracted much attention and should be given high priority. This study was designed to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of essential oils (EOs) extracted from 10 common medicinal plants of Mauritius. Eighteen microorganisms (bacterial and fungal isolates) were used to evaluate the antimicrobial potential of the EOs as well as their ability to potentiate conventional antibiotics. The phytochemical profile was established using Gas chromatography–Mass spectrometry method. Antibacterial activities were recorded with low minimal inhibitory concentration for 4 of the EOs using the microbroth dilution assay. A synergistic effect of the EO ofCitrus hystrix D.C., Citrus reticulate (Blanco) and Melaleuca quinquenervia S.T. Blake (Cav.) were observed against Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (ATCC 12228) when combined with gentamicin. Fungicidal and fungistatic effects of the EOs were observed among all the fungi irrespective of the family except forTrichophyton mentagrophytes. Twenty eight major compounds were identified and predominantly composed of monoterpene hydrocarbons at a dose-content ranging from 0.68 to 88.58%. This study has provided key information on the antimicrobial property and phytochemical composition of some tropical medicinal plants. Hence, EOs studied in the present investigation may be considered as potential medicinal candidates that could be exploited as complementary and alternative therapies for the treatment and management of infectious diseases.
Source : Journal Herbal Medicine
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Wound healing potential of lavender oil by acceleration of granulation and wound contraction through induction of TGF-β in a rat model
- Hiroko-Miyuki Mori,
- Hiroshi Kawanami,
- Hirohisa Kawahata and
- Motokuni Aoki
Abstract
Background
Although previous studies have suggested that lavender oil promote wound healing, no study has examined the molecular mechanisms of its effect. In this study, we investigated the effect of lavender oil on various steps of wound healing and its molecular mechanism, focusing on transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β).
Methods
Circular full-thickness skin wounds were produced on rats. Control solution or lavender oil was topically applied to the wounds on alternating days for 14 days.
Results
The area of wounds topically treated with lavender oil was significantly decreased as compared to that of wounds of control rats at 4, 6, 8, and 10 days after wounding. Topical application of lavender oil induced expression of type I and III collagen at 4 days after wounding, accompanied by an increased number of fibroblasts, which synthesize collagen. Induced expression of type III collagen by topical application of lavender oil was reduced to control level at 7 days after wounding although increased expression of type I collagen still continued even at 7 days, suggesting rapid collagen replacement from type III to type I in wounds treated with lavender oil. Importantly, expression of TGF-β in wounds treated with lavender oil was significantly increased as compared to control. Moreover, an increased number of myofibroblasts was observed in wounds treated with lavender oil at 4 days after wounding, suggesting promotion of differentiation of fibroblasts through induction of TGF-β, which is needed for wound contraction.
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that topical application of lavender oil promoted collagen synthesis and differentiation of fibroblasts, accompanied by up-regulation of TGF-β. These data suggest that lavender oil has the potential to promote wound healing in the early phase by acceleration of formation of granulation tissue, tissue remodeling by collagen replacement and wound contraction through up-regulation of TGF-β. The beneficial effect of lavender oil on wound healing may raise the possibility of new approaches as complementary treatment besides conventional therapy.
Source BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Chemical composition and antimicrobial, antioxidant activities and anti-inflammatory potential of Achillea millefolium L., Anethum graveolens L., and Carum copticum L. essential oils Abstract
Achillea millefolium L., Anethum graveolens L., and Carum copticum L. comprise several relevant species that may be used for the food, cosmetic, perfumery and pharmaceutical industries. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis revealed thymol to be a major component of A. millefolium, A. graveolens and C. copticum, with its contribution to the essential oils (EOs) being 26.47%, 20.07% and 23.14%, respectively. All three EOs exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against all tested bacterial strains, the A. millefolium oil being the most potent. In addition, A. millefolium EO had the highest antioxidant activity in all conducted assays. The A. millefolium EO had significantly greater radical scavenging activity than C. copticum EO and the reference antioxidant Trolox (IC50 values of 22.11, 26.5 and 28.32 mg/ml, respectively). In addition, a correlation between antioxidant activity and the total phenolic content was found. The A. millefolium EO significantly inhibited nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-activated macrophages (an in vitro model of inflammation). These results clearly show the antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the plant EOs.
Source : Sci-Hub.bc
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Lavender Essential Oil Reduces Renal Colic Pain in Female Patients
Irmak Sapmaz H, Uysal M, Taş U, et al. The effect of lavender oil in patients with renal colic: a prospective controlled study using objective and subjective outcome measurements. J Altern Complement Med. October 2015;21(10):617-622.
Renal colic, with severe flank, side, pelvic, abdominal, and/or back pain, develops secondary to stone formation in the ureter. About half of patients presenting with renal colic require acute hospital care, generally in emergency departments. There is currently no consensus on the ideal treatment protocol, but nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are the first-line treatment, with opioid analgesics used if response to NSAIDS is inadequate. Essential oil of lavender (Lavandula spp., Lamiaceae) has long been used in aromatherapy to decrease moderately severe depression, anxiety, and pain, and to support restful sleep. It has known comforting, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, and analgesic effects. While many studies have examined medical treatments that decrease the pain of renal colic, few have focused on alternative therapies like aromatherapy. The goal of this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, interventional study was to evaluate the effects of lavender essential oil on renal colic.
The study, conducted in Tokat, Turkey, included 100 patients (59 men and 41 women) aged 19-64 years. Recruitment methods and study time frame were not reported, but all patients at the time of inclusion had flank pain and kidney stones. Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups and assigned to treatment in 1 of 2 separate but identical rooms. Patients in room 1 (group 1; 29 men and 21 women) received 75 mg intramuscular diclofenac and a placebo physiologic serum administered via electronic vaporizer. Patients in room 2 (group 2; 30 men and 20 women) received 75 mg intramuscular diclofenac and aromatherapy consisting of 2% lavender oil (LO; manufacturer not indicated) dispersed via electronic vaporizer. Degree of pain was evaluated by patients before treatment and at 10 and 30 minutes after treatment using a visual analog scale (VAS), with 0 representing no pain and 10 representing the most severe pain. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heartbeats per minute (BPM) also were recorded at the same time. Comparisons were made between groups and between male and female patients.
VAS scores before treatment and at 10 minutes after treatment did not differ significantly between the groups. However, group 2 VAS scores at 30 minutes after treatment were significantly lower than group 1 (P=0.022). When female and male patients' VAS scores were analyzed separately, there was no difference between group 1 and group 2 before treatment or, for men, at 10 or 30 minutes after; however, for women in group 2, VAS scores at 30 minutes after treatment were significantly lower than those of women in group 1 (P=0.0001). In vivo, aromatherapy has been observed to reduce pain-indicating behaviors in female rats more than male rats, perhaps due to the LO's effect on acetylcholine secretion, induced by pain stimuli. Additionally, it is known that estrogens have important limbic system effects. MAP and BPM before and at 10 and 30 minutes following treatment did not differ significantly between groups.
The authors conclude that these results are similar to other studies and that the effects may be due to linalool and linalyl acetate found in lavender essential oil. Both exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties in human and in vivo studies, and linalool inhibits prostaglandin production. Additionally, olfactory pathways are connected to the limbic system, the stimulation of which leads to emotional changes that may also be effective in reducing pain. This study was not truly blind since LO is easily distinguishable by smell and this may have impacted the results. In conclusion, the authors surmise that while additional research is needed, aromatherapy with LO can be used as an adjuvant therapy, with NSAIDS or opioid analgesics, in cases of renal colic.
—Mariann Garner-Wizard
Source : American Botanical Council - Herbclip
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Effect of Lemongrass Aroma on Experimental Anxiety in Humans
Tiago Costa Goes, MSc,1 Fábio Reis Carvalho Ursulino, MD,1 Thiago Henrique Almeida-Souza, BSc,1Péricles Barreto Alves, PhD,2 and Flavia Teixeira-Silva, PhD1
1Departamento de Fisiologia, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil.
2Departamento de Química, Centro de Ciências Exatas e Tecnológia, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil.
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.
Source : Journal Alternative and Complementary Medicine
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Effect of lavender essential oil as a prophylactic therapy for migraine: A randomized controlled clinical trial
- Shahram Rafiea,
- Forough Namjoyanb,
- Fereshteh Golfakhrabadib,
- Fatemeh Yousefbeykc,
- Alireza Hassanzadeha
There is no cure for migraine, but preventive treatments are usually applied to reduce the frequency and severity of headache attacks. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of lavender as a prophylactic therapy for migraine in a randomized controlled clinical trial. This double-blind and placebo-controlled study was conducted over a period of three months. Patients were assessed for migraine impact at the baseline and at the end of the study, using the Migraine Disability Assessment Scores (MIDAS) questionnaire. In the case group, after three months of lavender therapy, the MIDAS score was reduced. The reduction in MIDAS score was significant (P < 0.05), when compared to the baseline and also control group. During the treatment, participants did not report any complaints or side effects. The results of this present study report that the frequency and severity of migraine incidents were reduced in those participants using lavender therapy during the three month trial.
Source : Journal of Herbal Medicine
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Effect of orange peel essential oil on postpartum sleep quality: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Mojgan Mirghafourvanda, Sakineh Mohammad-Alizadeh Charandabib, Sevil Hakimic, Laleh Khodaied, Mina Galeshie,
Abstract
Introduction
Pregnancy and postpartum are two critical and stressful periods. Despite the joy of motherhood, these periods are sometimes associated with important physiological and pathological changes such as sleep deprivation and poor sleep quality. This study aimed to determine the effect of orange peel essential oil on sleep quality after delivery.
Methods
This triple-blind randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 96 postpartum women. Verified samples were assigned to intervention and control groups using randomized blocking. The intervention group received 10 drops of orange peel essential oil and the control group received 10 drops of placebo in a glass of water, three times a day, after each meal for 8 weeks. All participants filled out the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index before and after the intervention.
Results
There was no statistically significant difference between groups in terms of socio-demographic characteristics sleep quality score before intervention (p > 0.05). A significant improvement in sleep quality was observed in the group receiving orange peel essential oil compared with the control group at 8 weeks after delivery [adjusted mean difference: 5.0; 95% confidence interval: 3.9 to 6.1; p = 0.001]. Regarding the components of the sleep quality index, there were statistically significant differences between the two groups except for the daytime dysfunction component (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Orange peel essential oil has a positive effect in improving mothers’ sleep quality in the postpartum period. However, further studies are needed on a more general population of women in order to decide on its use as an appropriate medication to use in clinical situations.
Source : The European Journal of Integrative Medicine
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Lavender Aromatherapy Improves Sleep Quality in College Students
Lillehei AS, Halcón LL, Savik K, Reis R. Effect of inhaled lavender and sleep hygiene on self-reported sleep issues: A randomized controlled trial. J Altern Complement Med. 2015;21(7):430-438.
Sleep problems are associated with numerous health concerns such as anxiety, depression, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, inflammation, obesity, impaired glucose tolerance, and diabetes. Essential oils, such as lavender (Lavandula angustifolia, Lamiaceae) flower, which have sedative or hypnotic properties, have been evaluated for sleep therapy. The purpose of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was to evaluate the effect of inhaled lavender essential oil on sleep quality and quantity in college students.
Students (n = 79, aged 18-36 years) with self-reported sleep issues (difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings during the night, or daytime sleepiness) were recruited from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, campus. Students were excluded if they were pregnant, working a night shift, or used prescription sleep medication. All subjects received sleep hygiene information based on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommendations—specifically, (1) maintain a regular sleep schedule; (2) avoid fluid intake before bed and food, caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine late in the day; (3) create a good sleeping environment (e.g., wear ear plugs and a sleep mask, and avoid screens and texting); (4) create a relaxing bedtime routine; (5) keep up with school work; and (6) exercise regularly.
Each 3-cm adhesive patch contained a 1-cm disc of absorbent material impregnated with 55 µL lavender oil (supplied by Wyndmere Naturals, Inc.; Minnetonka, Minnesota) or left blank (placebo). Based on the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis provided to the principal investigator, "the essential oil used was chemically consistent with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for L. angustifolia."The patch (supplied by Bioesse Technologies, LLC; Minnetonka, Minnesota) had a skin-barrier backing to prevent skin absorption of the essential oil and a time-release function to last 6-8 hours. For 5 consecutive nights, subjects applied a patch on their mid-upper chest at bedtime and removed it in the morning.
Sleep quantity was measured via a Fitbit® tracker (to measure movement during sleep) and sleep diary, and sleep quality was measured with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the NIH Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) sleep disturbance short form. Subjects also completed a sleep hygiene survey (SHS). Assessments were made at baseline, at day 5, and 2 weeks after the completion of treatment.
The majority of the subjects were white (67%) and female (69%); both treatment groups had similar demographics. There were technical issues with the Fitbit, resulting in unacceptable levels of missing data (only 14% of the data were recovered). The patches were reported to have fallen off during sleep in 37% of the person nights (n = 146); however, the data analysis indicated that the patch falling off was not a significant covariate. Based on SHS scores, sleep hygiene was better during the 5-day treatment phase compared to baseline and post-treatment in both groups; there were no significant differences in SHS scores between groups at any time point. Based on the PSQI, both groups had poor sleep before the intervention, and there was no difference between groups at baseline.
Post-treatment, sleep quantity did not significantly differ between groups; both groups had a significant decrease in awakenings (P = 0.02) and increase in being able to fall asleep easily (P = 0.001).
The PSQI and PROMIS assessments indicated that sleep quality was significantly better for the lavender group compared with the sleep hygiene-only group at day 5 (P = 0.01 and P = 0.04, respectively) and at follow-up (P ≤ 0.001 and P = 0.007, respectively). Better sleep hygiene was also associated with better sleep quality but to a much lesser degree at day 5 (P = 0.02 and P = 0.03, respectively) and at follow-up (P = 0.03, PROMIS only). The lavender group had a clinically significant improvement in sleep quality, while there was no clinically significant change in sleep quality in the sleep hygiene-only group. The lavender group had less daytime fatigue at day 5 and follow-up (P = 0.02 and P = 0.009, respectively) and was more likely to wake refreshed at day 5 (P = 0.01). The 4 adverse event reports (minor skin irritation, each lasting 1 night) were attributed to the patch adhesive.
The authors conclude that, in college students with self-reported sleep issues, lavender essential oil inhalation improved sleep quality, and the effect persisted for 2 weeks after lavender aromatherapy was suspended. "The persistent effect of lavender on sleep quality at two-week follow-up suggests a re-balancing or long-acting effect on the sleep cycle, although the exact mechanism of action is unknown." The limitations of the study were the lack of statistical power to evaluate potential differences due to race or ethnicity, the loss of objective Fitbit data regarding sleep quantity, the subjective self-reporting nature of the data, the lack of standardized dosages due to the poor patch adherence, and the potential failure of subject blinding due to the lavender scent. The authors conclude that this trial "supports the use of lavender and sleep hygiene as safe, accessible, and effective interventions for self-reported sleep issues in college students. Further research to study their effect on other populations and additional studies exploring the duration of intervention effects are needed."
—Heather S. Oliff, PhD
Source : American Botanical Council, Herbclip
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Essential Oil Inhalation on Blood Pressure and Salivary Cortisol Levels in Prehypertensive and Hypertensive Subjects
In-Hee Kim,1 Chan Kim,2 Kayeon Seong,1 Myung-Haeng Hur,1 Heon Man Lim,3 and Myeong Soo Lee4
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of essential oil inhalation on the 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure (BP) and salivary cortisol level in 83 prehypertensive and hypertensive subjects. The experimental group (n=28) was asked to inhale an essential oil blended with lavender, ylang-ylang, marjoram, and neroli (20 : 15 : 10 : 2), whereas the placebo group (n=27) was asked to inhale an artificial fragrance for 24 hours and the control group received no treatment (n=28). The SBP (P<.001) and DBP (P=.009) measured at home in the experimental group were significantly decreased compared with the placebo group and the control group after treatment. The daytime SBP during the 24-hour ambulatory BP measurement of the experimental group presented with significant decreases in comparison with the measurements of the placebo group and the control group (P<.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the nighttime SBPs. The daytime DBPs during the 24-hour ambulatory BP measurements of the experimental group presented with significant decreases in comparison with the measurements of the placebo group and the control group (P=.002). There was no significant difference in the night time DBPs. The experimental group showed significant decreases in the concentration of salivary cortisol in comparison with the concentrations of the placebo group and the control group (P=.012). In conclusion, the inhalation of an essential oil had immediate and continuous effects on the home SBP, daytime BP, and the stress reduction. Essential oils may have relaxation effects for controlling hypertension.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Ocimum gratissimum Essential Oil and Its Isolated Compounds (Eugenol and Myrcene) Reduce Neuropathic Pain in Mice
.Paula-Freire LI1, Molska GR2, Andersen ML1, Carlini EL2.
Abstract
Ocimum gratissimum is used in popular medicine to treat painful diseases. The antihypernociceptive properties of O. gratissimum essential oil and two of its active components (eugenol and myrcene) were tested in a model of neuropathic pain induced by a chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve. In tests to determine chronic antinociception, adult male C57BL/6 J mice were treated orally with corn oil (control group), O. gratissimum essential oil at doses of 10, 20, or 40 mg/kg or eugenol or myrcene at doses of 1, 5, or 10 mg/kg for 14 days after surgery. Pregabalin (20 mg/kg) was used as a standard in this study. The treatment with 20 and 40 mg/kg of O. gratissimum essential oil and at doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg of the active components were able to promote antihypernociception in both mechanical (von Frey) and thermal (hot plate) tests. The treatment with the essential oil of the plant or eugenol was effective in reducing the levels of interleukin-1β in the sciatic nerve. Our findings demonstrate that O. gratissimum essential oil and its isolated active components possess antihypernociceptive activity in neuropathic pain models.
Source : Planta Medica
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Oral Lavender Essential Oil Reduces Restlessness and Anxiety in Patients with Subthreshold Anxiety Disorders
Kasper S, Anghelescu I, Dienel A. Efficacy of orally administered Silexan in patients with anxiety-related restlessness and disturbed sleep – A randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. August 7, 2015; [epub ahead of print]. doi: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2015.07.024.
Restlessness and sleep disturbances are among the symptoms of anxiety disorders. Patients with anxiety need a treatment that is calming but not sedating. Restlessness and disturbed sleep are the main indications for lavender (Lavandula angustifolia, Lamiaceae) flower essential oil. Silexan® (Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH & Co. KG; Karlsruhe, Germany) is a patented product containing 80 mg of standardized lavender flower essential oil in each soft gelatin capsule. Clinical studies show that Silexan produces anxiolysis in patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and subthreshold anxiety disorder. The purpose of this randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter study was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of Silexan in patients with subthreshold anxiety disorder who suffer from restlessness and disturbed sleep.
The study was conducted at 17 general and psychiatric practices in Germany. Patients (n=170, aged 18-65 years) were included if they had restlessness and agitation according to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10); ≥ 5 of 10 points on a visual analog scale of restlessness and agitation; substantial disease-related impairment of daily living; ≥ 18 points on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA); ≥ 2 points for HAMA items "Tension" and "Insomnia"; and disturbed sleep as confirmed with a score of ≥ 6 points on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Patients were excluded for the following reasons: HAMA total score decrease of ≥ 25% between study inclusion and baseline measurements; psychiatric or neurological disease diagnosis ≥ 6 months before study entry (except anxiety); depression; somatoform disorders; neurasthenia; personality disorder; primary insomnia; suicidal; substance abuse; taking psychotropic medication or muscle relaxants; and undergoing psychotherapy. During a 3- to 7-day screening/run-in period, all patients took 1 placebo capsule. After baseline assessment, patients received either placebo or Silexan 80 mg/day for 10 weeks. The placebo contained 1/1000 of the amount of lavender oil found in Silexan to match the smell of Silexan. The primary outcome measure of anxiolytic effect was HAMA total score change; the primary outcome measure of sleep improvement was PSQI score change. The secondary outcome measures were the number of treatment responders and remitters, HAMA sub-scores, Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Clinical Global Impressions (CGI) observer rating scale, and the State Check (SC) self-check scale. Response to treatment was defined as ≥ 50% change from baseline to study end on the HAMA, and clinical remission (remitter) was defined as having a HAMA total score < 10 points at study end.
Baseline demographic characteristics were similar between groups. After randomization, the full analysis set (FAS) consisted of n=86 in the Silexan group and n=84 in the placebo group; the per-protocol (PP) analysis included n=73 in the Silexan group and n=65 in the placebo group. Exclusions from the PP analysis were comparable between the 2 groups except for non-compliance (n=8 placebo patients and n=0 Silexan patients).
Significant improvements in HAMA total score were observed in the Silexan group after 4 weeks of treatment, compared to placebo. After 10 weeks, the 12-point decrease in HAMA total score in the Silexan group was significantly greater than the 9.3-point decrease in the placebo group (P=0.03). The Silexan treatment effect was more pronounced in the PP analysis. Patients with more severe baseline HAMA total scores had greater Silexan-induced improvements. The number of responders in the Silexan group (48.8%) was significantly greater than the number (33.3%) in the placebo group (P=0.04); there was no significant difference between the 2 groups in the number of remitters. Compared with placebo, the number of patients reporting that they never, seldom, or sometimes felt restless on the SC scale significantly increased in the Silexan group (P=0.01). The CGI assessments also reflected greater improvements in the Silexan group compared to placebo. There was no significant difference between groups in the PSQI total score change, indicating that Silexan does not have a sedative effect. This finding is supported by the lack of adverse events (AEs) related to sedation.
The frequency of AEs was similar between groups, and there were no serious AEs in either group. In double-blinded assessment, 9 patients in the Silexan group and 4 patients in the placebo group had an AE in which a causal relationship to the treatment could not be excluded. All potentially related AEs in the Silexan group were gastrointestinal complaints. Overall, Silexan was well tolerated.
The authors conclude that this study not only confirms the anxiolytic effect of Silexan observed in other clinical trials but also shows it significantly reduces restlessness without causing sedation. Therefore, Silexan may be beneficial irrespective of whether the patient presents to the clinician with restlessness or anxiety. A limitation of the study is that there is no validated psychiatric scale for assessing restlessness, and the authors had to develop their own scale. The study was funded by the manufacturer of Silexan, Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH & Co. KG. The lead author (SK) has received funding from and served as a consultant to numerous pharmaceutical companies, including Dr. Willmar Schwabe; another author (AD) is employed by Dr. Willmar Schwabe.
—Heather S. Oliff, PhD
Source : American Botanical Council - Herbclip
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Antifungal activity and mode of action of thymol and its synergism with nystatin against Candida species involved with infections in the oral cavity: an in vitro study
Ricardo Dias de Castro1*, Trícia Murielly Pereira Andrade de Souza2, Louise Morais Dornelas Bezerra2, Gabriela Lacet Silva Ferreira1, Edja Maria Melo de Brito Costa3 andAlessandro Leite Cavalcanti3
Thymol (2-isopropyl-5-methylphenol) is a phytoconstituent classified as a monoterpene [25]. It is the majority phytoconstituent in the essential oil of thyme (Thymus vulgaris) [24] and is a major component of the essential oil of oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Abstract
BackgroundLimitations of antifungal agents used in the treatment of oral candidiasis, as the development of resistant strains, are known by the scientific community. In this context, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of thymol against Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis andCandida krusei strains and to determine its mode of action and synergistic effect when combined with the synthetic antifungal nystatin.
MethodsThe minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using a microdilution technique, and the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) was determined via subculture sowing. The mode of action of thymol was established by verifying fungal growth in the presence of sorbitol or ergosterol. The fractional inhibitory concentration index (FIC) was determined using the checkerboard method.
ResultsThymol presented an antifungal effect, with MICs of 39 μg/mL for C. albicans and C. krusei and 78 μg/mL for C. tropicalis. The results of the antifungal test remained unchanged in the presence of sorbitol; however, the MIC value of thymol against C. albicans increased eight times (from 39.0 to 312.5 μg/mL) in presence of exogenous ergosterol. The combination of thymol and nystatin reduced the MIC values of both products by 87.4 %, generating an FIC index of 0.25.
ConclusionsThymol was found to have a fungicidal effect on Candida species and a synergistic effect when combined with nystatin.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Chamomile Oil Improves Pain, Stiffness, and Function in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Shoara R, Hashempur MH, Ashraf A, Salehi A, Dehshahri S, Habibagahi Z. Efficacy and safety of topicalMatricaria chamomilla L. (chamomile) oil for knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled clinical trial.Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2015;21(3):181-187.
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) causes pain, physical dependency, and impaired mobility in the elderly. OA is often treated with analgesics; however, the adverse side effects associated with analgesics, as well as patients' comorbidities such as ischemic heart disease and gastric upset, can limit their use. In traditional Persian medicine, chamomile (Matricaria recutita syn. M. chamomilla, Asteraceae) oil is used for its therapeutic effects and is often prescribed for joint pain. These authors conducted a 3-arm, parallel, blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to assess the efficacy and safety of topical chamomile oil in the treatment of knee OA.
Dried chamomile flowers (600 g), purchased at a local market in Shiraz in southern Iran, were boiled in 3.6 L water, then combined with sesame (Sesamum indicum, Pedaliaceae) oil, and further concentrated by vaporization. Pharmaceutical grade paraffin was used as the placebo. Diclofenac gel 1% (Behvazan Pharmaceutical Co.; Tehran, Iran), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, served as the positive control medication for the third arm of the study.
Male and female patients at Shahid Motahari Outpatient Clinic at Shiraz (Iran) University of Medical Sciences, aged between 38 and 65 years, were eligible for the study if they had knee OA meeting the criteria of the American College of Rheumatology and grade 1 to 3 OA according to the Kellgren-Lawrence Grading Scale.
From January 2015 to March 2015, 130 patients were assessed for eligibility. Of those, 99 were randomly assigned to 1 of the 3 treatment arms. Twenty-eight patients in each group completed the study. In the chamomile group, 4 dropped out for personal reasons, and 1 was lost to follow-up. Five patients in the placebo group and 5 in the diclofenac control group dropped out for personal reasons.
All patients were instructed to apply the prescribed medication 3 times daily for 3 weeks and advised not to massage the treatment area.
Acetaminophen (500 mg tablets) was allowed as a rescue drug during the trial, and its use was one of the study's outcome measures.
Another outcome measure was the score on the self-administered Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) questionnaire, which evaluated the patients on the following 3 domains:
- Pain, ranging from 0 (no pain) to 4 (extreme pain
- Physical function, ranging from 0 (no difficulty) to 4 (most severe difficulty
- Stiffness, ranging from 0 (no stiffness) to 4 (the worse stiffness)
The authors reported the number of acetaminophen tablets used by patients was significantly lower in the chamomile group (21.00 ± 10.35) compared with the diclofenac (28.14 ± 4.90) and placebo (27.46 ± 7.10) groups (P=0.001). The authors suggested the polyphenolic compounds of chamomile can have anti-inflammatory effects and may explain the decreased demand for analgesics in the chamomile group.
Results of the responses of the WOMAC questionnaire revealed significant improvements in pain, physical function, and stiffness in all groups when compared with baseline scores (P<0.001 for all); no significant differences were observed among the 3 groups. The chamomile oil improved WOMAC scores similar to the diclofenac, it is lower in cost than the diclofenac, and fewer analgesics were required with its use.
Chamomile oil was well tolerated by patients. No adverse side effects were reported, and no abnormal physical findings were noted.
The authors point out that because they used sesame oil as the vehicle for the active constituents of the chamomile flower, they cannot attribute the results solely to the chamomile. Sesame oil also has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anesthetic properties. Other limitations of the study include the short duration, the relatively small sample size, and the small percentage (15.5%) of male patients in the study, which would limit the generalizability of the results for male patients with knee OA.
The authors conclude that the topical use of a traditional formulation of chamomile oil can decrease the need for analgesics in patients with knee OA and produces some beneficial effects on pain, physical function, and stiffness.
―Shari Henson
Source : American Botanical Council - Herbclip
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The Effect of Lavender Oil in Patients with Renal Colic: A Prospective Controlled Study Using Objective and Subjective Outcome Measurements
Hilal Irmak Sapmaz, MD,1 Murat Uysal, MD,1 Ufuk Taş, MD,1 Mehmet Esen, MD,2 Mustafa Barut, MD,3Battal Tahsin Somuk, MD,4 Tufan Alatlı, MD,2 and Safiye Ayan, MD5
1Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey.
2Faculty of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey.
3Clinic of Internal Medicine, Tokat State Hospital, Tokat, Turkey.
4Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ear, Nose and Throat Diseases, Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey.
5Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey.
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.
Source : Journal Alternative and Complementary Medicine
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Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity of a Sizable Set of Essential Oils
Plant J* and Stephens B
Abstract
Health issues related to bacterial infections, and the rise of bacterial resistance, have pushed the need for improved control options. Recently there has been a renewed interest in testing essential oils as antimicrobials, and combinatorial therapy combining conventional antibiotics and essential oils is ongoing. The popularity of essential oils as homeopathic remedies has increased in recent years due to the thought that natural products might prove safer than ingredients currently in consumer products. Several scientific reports exist relating to the efficacy of essential oils in controlling microbes, however most of these publications are either microbe centric, or are specific to one particular essential oil or oil constituent. This work was undertaken to develop a more comprehensive picture of the antibacterial effects of essential oils by evaluating the effectiveness of a large panel of essential oils against four diverse strains of bacteria (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus, and Serratia marcescens). Of the essential oils tested, cinnamon bark, lemongrass, oregano, and thyme oils were the most potent, and had activity comparable to a concentration of a penicillin-streptomycin solution commonly used to inhibit bacterial growth. This study supports the idea that certain essential oils could play an important role in the development of antimicrobial products.
Source : Journal Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
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Evaluation of the wound healing property of Commiphora guidottii Chiov. ex. Guid.
Michael Gebrehiwot1, Kaleab Asres1*, Daniel Bisrat1, Avijit Mazumder2, Peter Lindemann3and Franz Bucar4
Abstract
Background
The traditional use of the oleo-gum-resin of Commiphora guidottii Chiov. ex. Guid., which is commonly called scented myrrh, for topical treatment of wound is well documented. The major objective of the present study was to investigate the essential oil and resin obtained from C. guidottii for their potential wound healing properties. Due to their influence on the wound healing process, the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of scented myrrh have also been investigated.
Methods
Powdered oleo-gum-resin of C. guidottii was steam-distilled to obtain essential oil, and the resin was extracted from the marc with MeOH and filtered. The TLC fingerprint profile of the resin has been recorded by using silica gel GF 254 as stationary phase. The essential oil components were identified and quantified by GC-MS. Ointments prepared from the essential oil (4 % v/w) and the resin (5 % w/w) were used for wound healing activity tests. Toxicity of the formulated ointments was investigated according to Draize skin irritation test. Acute anti-inflammatory effect in mice was evaluated using carrageenan induced mouse hind paw oedema model. Antimicrobial activity tests were carried out using disk diffusion and broth dilution techniques against 21 pathogenic bacterial and 4 fungal strains.
Results
Ointment formulations of both the oil and resin were found to be non-irritant at the concentrations used and showed significant (p < 0.05-0.001) increase in wound contraction rate, shorter epithelization time and higher skin breaking strength as compared to the negative control. Overall, the antibacterial and antifungal activities of the oil and resin were comparable with the standard antibiotics ciprofloxacin and griseofulvin, respectively.
Conclusion
The results confirm that scented myrrh possesses genuine wound healing activity supporting the traditional use of the plant.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil Inhibits Candida Growth In Vitro and Appears Safe as an Oral Mouthwash
de Araújo Oliveira J, da Silva ICG, Trindade LA, et al. Safety and tolerability of essential oil from Cinnamomumzeylanicum Blume leaves with action on oral candidosis and its effect on the physical properties of the acrylic resin. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2014;2014:325670. doi: 10.1155/2014/325670.
Denture wearers are prone to denture stomatitis which forms between the dentures and gums and is associated with oral Candida infection. Treatments include the use of antifungal medications to control oral Candidapopulations, and education on the proper care and cleaning of dentures. Often though, denture stomatitis returns after treatment with antifungal medication ceases. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum syn. C. zeylanicum, Lauraceae) is known to have analgesic, antiseptic, and antimicrobial qualities. Cinnamon has also been found to have low toxicity in human subjects. This study was divided into 3 sections. First, the antifungal activity of the essential oil from cinnamon leaves was measured in vitro on 12 strains of Candida. Second, the effect of cinnamon essential oil was measured on the roughness and hardness of acrylic used in dentures. Lastly, the tolerance of mouthwash containing cinnamon essential oil was tested on subjects without oral Candida infections in a phase I clinical trial.
For each part of this study, essential oil from cinnamon leaves was purchased from Ferquima Ind. eCom. (São Paulo, Brazil). Secondary compounds in the essential oil were evaluated with mass spectrometry. Seventeen peaks were measured, with eugenol comprising 82.3% of the oil. In addition, nystatin (Sigma-Aldrich Brasil Ltda.; São Paulo, Brazil) was used as a positive control in the first 2 parts of the study. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of cinnamon essential oil was determined in 8 strains of Candida albicans and 4 strains ofCandida tropicalis using serial dilutions. Once the MIC was determined, the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) was determined by growing the Candida strains in culture with the MIC for cinnamon essential oil. Two additional concentrations of essential oil (MICx2 and MICx4) were tested for MFC determination. The effect of cinnamon essential oil was measured on the roughness and hardness of polished denture-like acrylic samples. One side of each acrylic sample was marked with 3 lines. The samples were then stored in artificial saliva (source not given) for 15 days. A negative control treatment received no further manipulation. The samples in the cinnamon treatment and the nystatin treatment were removed from the saliva 3 times per day and submerged in their respective treatments for 1 minute each time. The cinnamon treatment consisted of the MIC for cinnamon essential oil, Tween® 80 (source not given), and deionized water. The nystatin treatment consisted of 100,000 UI/mL of nystatin in deionized water. After treatment, the lines were measured for roughness. The hardness of the acrylic samples was measured before and after treatment with a Vickers diamond-tipped indenter, and an average Vickers hardness number (VHN) was generated.
In the last section of the study, healthy subjects who wore dentures were recruited. Oral Candida infection was assessed for each prospective subject. Subjects were excluded if they had oral candidosis, had taken antimicrobial medications in the last 6 months, or if they had a known sensitivity to cinnamon. Subjects were instructed to rinse their mouths for 1 minute 3 times per day with cinnamon mouthwash (distilled water, cinnamon essential oil at 625 µg/mL, and Tween 80) for 15 days. Subjects also cleaned their dentures with the cinnamon mouthwash at the same intervals. Subjects' mouths were photographed and examined prior to and after treatment. Subjects were also asked to record any side effects over the course of the study. Data were analyzed with analysis of variance and post-hoc Tukey's tests.
All 12 strains of Candida were inhibited by the cinnamon and nystatin treatments. A concentration of 625 µg/mL of cinnamon inhibited all strains of Candida. A cinnamon concentration of 312.5 µg/mL was found to inhibit 3 of the strains of Candida. The MFC was determined to be 625 µg/mL. The roughness of all acrylic samples increased and the hardness decreased significantly after 15 days of treatment (P<0.05). The nystatin treatment resulted in a significantly rougher and softer surface than either the cinnamon treatment or the saliva control treatment (P<0.0001 for both measures). Subjects (n=15) did not show any change in gum appearance after 15 days of cinnamon mouthwash treatment. One subject noted a slight burning sensation on the tongue after using the cinnamon mouthwash that resolved in about 2 minutes. The sensation was not severe enough for the subject to discontinue treatment.
Cinnamon essential oil was found to inhibit the growth of Candida in vitro, result in less damage to acrylic dentures than nystatin, and be safe for use in the phase I clinical trial. The authors found only 1 prior pilot study on the use of cinnamon bark essential oil in controlling oral Candida infections in 5 patients; however, no studies were found on the use of cinnamon leaf essential oil mouthwash in subjects who wore dentures. The antifungal properties of cinnamon are attributed to the high concentration of eugenol in cinnamon leaf essential oil (and cinnamaldehyde plus eugenol in the bark essential oil). The authors recommend continued studies of the use of cinnamon mouthwash in the treatment of denture stomatitis and Candida infection in patients who wear dentures.
Source : American Botanical Council —Cheryl McCutchan, PhD
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Topical Lavender Cream Alleviates Anxiety, Stress, and Depression in Pregnant Women
Effati-Daryani F, Mohammad-Alizadeh-Charandabi S, Mirghafourvand M, Taghizadeh M, Mohammadi A. Effect of lavender cream with or without foot-bath on anxiety, stress and depression in pregnancy: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. J Caring Sci. 2015;4(1):63-73.
Maternal anxiety, stress, and/or depression during pregnancy have a negative effect on the health of both mother and child. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia, Lamiaceae) flower essential oil has been shown to decrease anxiety, stress, and depression. Foot bathing has also been found to improve autonomic function, sleep quality, and relaxation. The purpose of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was to compare the effect of lavender cream, foot bathing, and placebo treatment on anxiety, stress, and depression in pregnant women.
Healthy pregnant women (n=141, aged 18-40 years) at 25-28 weeks gestation participated in this study conducted at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences; Tabriz, Iran. Excluded patients had a history of any chronic disease; were taking any medication (e.g., sedatives) that might interfere with the interventions; smoked; had a history of infertility; had a recent unwanted pregnancy; had a history of allergy to herbal medicines; had inflammation at the site of cream application; had current severe depression, anxiety, or stress (score of ≥10 on the anxiety sub-scale, ≥17 on the stress sub-scale, or ≥14 on the depression sub-scale of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 [DASS-21]); were obese (body mass index ≥30); were illiterate; worked a night shift; or lived outside of Tabriz city. The sample size was calculated to detect a reduction of at least 43% in mean anxiety score and 40% in mean depression score on the DASS-21. P-values of <0.05 were considered significant.
Patients were randomly assigned into 3 groups as follows: placebo, lavender cream (Barij Essence Pharmaceutical Company; Kashan, Iran), and lavender cream + foot bath. The lavender cream contained 1.25% lavender essential oil; the placebo was the base cream consisting of stearic acid, acetyl alcohol, Vaseline®, and glycerin. Patients were instructed to rub 2 g of lavender or placebo cream on their legs for 10-20 minutes, 1.5 hours before bedtime for 8 weeks. The lavender + foot bath group was told to soak their feet in 40-42°C tap water, at a depth of 5 cm above the ankle, for 30 minutes after applying the cream. To facilitate blinding, patients only knew that the effect of an herbal cream was being investigated; the name of the plant was not mentioned.
The patients completed the DASS-21 questionnaire at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Based on their responses, anxiety, stress, and depression sub-scores were calculated. To assess compliance, patients were asked to keep a daily diary of treatment application and to return cream tubes at the week 4 and week 8 visits.
At baseline, the groups had similar characteristics. Compliance was similar among all 3 groups. No serious side effects were reported. One patient in the lavender + foot bath group and 3 patients in the placebo group were lost to follow-up.
At 4 weeks, a significant improvement in stress and anxiety scores (P<0.05 for both) was observed in the lavender group compared to placebo. The lavender + foot bath group had significantly improved stress scores compared to placebo (P<0.05).
At 8 weeks, there was a significant improvement in anxiety, stress, and depression in the lavender group compared with the placebo group (P<0.05 for all), and in the lavender + foot bath group compared with the placebo group (P<0.05 for all). There was no significant difference in DASS-21 scores between the lavender group and the lavender + foot bath group.
Acknowledged limitations of the study include the lack of a placebo + foot bath treatment arm, the lack of physiological measures of stress such as saliva cortisol levels, and that the results cannot be generalized to pregnant women with psychological disorders. In addition, this study only used one instrument (DASS-21) to measure anxiety, stress, and depression.
The authors conclude that lavender cream with or without foot bathing for 8 weeks significantly improved anxiety, stress, and depression in pregnant women. They recommend further studies to assess the effect of lavender on pregnant women with psychological disorders and women with postpartum depression. It is important to note that this study applies to the topical use of lavender essential oil. Future studies should consider the use of a natural carrier oil rather than a petroleum-based carrier.
—Heather S. Oliff, PhD
Source : American Botanical Council
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Anti-fatty liver effects of oils from Zingiber officinale and Curcuma longa on ethanol-induced fatty liver in rats
1. Sarah Onyenibe Nwozo (Nutritional and Industrial Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200002, Nigeria E-mail: [email protected])
2. Damilola Adeola Osunmadewa (Nutritional and Industrial Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200002, Nigeria )
3. Babatunji Emmanuel Oyinloye (Nutritional and Industrial Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200002, Nigeria )
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The present study is aimed at evaluating the protective effects of oils from Zingiber officinale (ginger) and Curcuma longa (turmeric) on acute ethanol-induced fatty liver in male Wistar rats.
METHODS: Ferric reducing antioxidant power activity and oxygen radical absorbance capacity of the oils were evaluated ex vivo. Rats were pretreated for 28 d with standard drug (Livolin Forte) and oils from Z. officinale and C. longa before they were exposed to 45% ethanol (4.8 g/kg) to induce acute fatty liver. Histological changes were observed and the degree of protection was measured by using biochemical parameters such as alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities. Serum triglyceride (TG) level, total cholesterol (TC) level and the effects of both oils on reduced gluthatione (GSH), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were estimated.
RESULTS: Oils from Z. officinale and C. longa at a dose of 200 mg/kg showed hepatoprotection by decreasing the activities of serum enzymes, serum TG, serum TC and hepatic MDA, while they significantly restored the level of GSH as well as GST and SOD activities. Histological examination of rats tissues was related to the obtained results.
CONCLUSION: From the results it may be concluded that oils from Z. officinale and C. longa (200 mg/kg) exhibited hepatoprotective activity in acute ethanol-induced fatty liver and Z. officinale oil was identified to have better effects than C. longa oil.
Source : Journal Chinese Integrative Medicine
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The Effect of Essential Oils and Bioactive Fractions on Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans Biofilms: A Confocal Analysis
Irlan Almeida Freires,1 Bruno Bueno-Silva,2 Lívia Câmara de Carvalho Galvão,1 Marta Cristina Teixeira Duarte,3 Adilson Sartoratto,3 Glyn Mara Figueira,3 Severino Matias de Alencar,4 and Pedro Luiz Rosalen1
1Pharmacology, Anesthesiology and Therapeutics, Department of Physiological Sciences, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, 13414-903 Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
2Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
3Research Center for Chemistry, Biology and Agriculture, University of Campinas, 13083-970 Campinas, SP, Brazil
4Department of Agri-Food Industry, Food and Nutrition, “Luiz de Queiroz” College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo, 13418-900 Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
Abstract
The essential oils (EO) and bioactive fractions (BF) from Aloysia gratissima, Baccharis dracunculifolia, Coriandrum sativum, Cyperus articulatus, and Lippia sidoides were proven to have strong antimicrobial activity on planktonic microorganisms; however, little is known about their effects on the morphology or viability of oral biofilms. Previously, we determined the EO/fractions with the best antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Candida spp. In this report, we used a confocal analysis to investigate the effect of these EO and BF on the morphology of S. mutans biofilms (thickness, biovolume, and architecture) and on the metabolic viability of C. albicans biofilms. The analysis of intact treated S. mutans biofilms showed no statistical difference for thickness in all groups compared to the control. However, a significant reduction in the biovolume of extracellular polysaccharides and bacteria was observed for A. gratissima and L. sidoides groups, indicating that these BF disrupt biofilm integrity and may have created porosity in the biofilm. This phenomenon could potentially result in a weakened structure and affect biofilm dynamics. Finally, C. sativum EO drastically affected C. albicans viability when compared to the control. These results highlight the promising antimicrobial activity of these plant species and support future translational research on the treatment of dental caries and oral candidiasis.
Source : Evidence Based CAM
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Herbal medicine for low-back pain
- Hanna Oltean1,
- Chris Robbins1,
- Maurits W van Tulder2,
- Brian M Berman3,
- Claire Bombardier4,
- Joel J Gagnier5,*
Abstract
Low-back pain (LBP) is a common condition and imposes a substantial economic burden upon people living in industrialized societies. A large proportion of people with chronic LBP use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), visit CAM practitioners, or both. Several herbal medicines have been purported for use in treating people with LBP. This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2006.
Objectives
To determine the effectiveness of herbal medicine for non-specific LBP.
Search methods
We searched the following electronic databases up to September 2014: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, Clinical Trials.gov, World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Portal and PubMed; checked reference lists in review articles, guidelines and retrieved trials; and personally contacted individuals with expertise in this area.
Selection criteria
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining adults (over 18 years of age) suffering from acute, sub-acute, or chronic non-specific LBP. The interventions were herbal medicines which we defined as plants used for medicinal purposes in any form. Primary outcome measures were pain and function.
Data collection and analysis
A library scientist with the Cochrane Back Review Group conducted the database searches. One review author contacted content experts and acquired relevant citations. We downloaded full references and abstracts of the identified studies and retrieved a hard copy of each study for final inclusion decisions. Two review authors assessed risk of bias, GRADE criteria (GRADE 2004), and CONSORT compliance and a random subset were compared to assessments by a third individual. Two review authors assessed clinical relevance and resolved any disagreements by consensus.
Main results
We included 14 RCTs (2050 participants) in this review. One trial on Solidago chilensis M. (Brazilian arnica) (20 participants) found very low quality evidence of reduction in perception of pain and improved flexibility with application of Brazilian arnica-containing gel twice daily as compared to placebo gel. Capsicum frutescens cream or plaster probably produces more favourable results than placebo in people with chronic LBP (three trials, 755 participants, moderate quality evidence). Based on current evidence, it is not clear whether topical capsicum cream is more beneficial for treating people with acute LBP compared to placebo (one trial, 40 participants, low quality evidence). Another trial found equivalence of C. frutescens cream to a homeopathic ointment (one trial, 161 participants, very low quality evidence). Daily doses of Harpagophytum procumbens (devil's claw), standardized to 50 mg or 100 mg harpagoside, may be better than placebo for short-term improvements in pain and may reduce use of rescue medication (two trials, 315 participants, low quality evidence). Another H. procumbens trial demonstrated relative equivalence to 12.5 mg per day of rofecoxib (Vioxx®) but was of very low quality (one trial, 88 participants, very low quality). Daily doses of Salix alba (white willow bark), standardized to 120 mg or 240 mg salicin, are probably better than placebo for short-term improvements in pain and rescue medication (two trials, 261 participants, moderate quality evidence). An additional trial demonstrated relative equivalence to 12.5 mg per day of rofecoxib (one trial, 228 participants) but was graded as very low quality evidence. S. alba minimally affected platelet thrombosis versus a cardioprotective dose of acetylsalicylate (one trial, 51 participants). One trial (120 participants) examining Symphytum officinale L. (comfrey root extract) found low quality evidence that a Kytta-Salbe comfrey extract ointment is better than placebo ointment for short-term improvements in pain as assessed by VAS. Aromatic lavender essential oil applied by acupressure may reduce subjective pain intensity and improve lateral spine flexion and walking time compared to untreated participants (one trial, 61 participants,very low quality evidence). No significant adverse events were noted within the included trials.
Authors' conclusions
C. frutescens (Cayenne) reduces pain more than placebo. Although H. procumbens, S. alba, S. officinale L., S. chilensis, and lavender essential oil also seem to reduce pain more than placebo, evidence for these substances was of moderate quality at best. Additional well-designed large trials are needed to test these herbal medicines against standard treatments. In general, the completeness of reporting in these trials was poor.
Source : Cochrane Library
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Essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia for the treatment of oral candidiasis induced in an immunosuppressed mouse model
Vanessa Maria de Campos Rasteiro, Anna Carolina Borges Pereira da Costa, Cássia Fernandes Araújo, Patrícia Pimentel de Barros, Rodnei Dennis Rossoni*, Ana Lia Anbinder,Antonio Olavo Cardoso Jorge and Juliana Campos Junqueira
Abstract
BackgroundThe search for alternative therapies for oral candidiasis is a necessity and the use of medicinal plants seems to be one of the promising solutions. The objective of this study was to evaluate thein vitro and in vivo effects of the essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia on Candida albicans.
Methods
The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) of M. alternifolia were determined by the broth microdilution assay. For the in vivo study, twelve immunosuppressed mice with buccal candidiasis received topical applications of M. alternifolia with MBEC. After treatment, yeasts were recovered from the mice and quantified (CFU/mL). Mice were killed for morphologic analysis of the tongue dorsum by optical and scanning electron microscopy. Data were analyzed using Student’s t test or Mann-Whitney test.
Results
The MIC of M. alternifolia was 0.195% and the MBEC was 12.5%. Treatment with M. alternifoliaachieved a 5.33 log reduction in C. albicans and reduced the microscopic lesions of candidiasis.
Conclusions
M. alternifolia oil at a 12.5% was effective to eradicate a C. albicans biofilm formed in vitro and to reduce yeasts of C. albicans in an immunosuppressed mouse model.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Modulatory effects of aromatherapy massage intervention on electroencephalogram, psychological assessments, salivary cortisol and plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor
- Jin-Ji Wua,
- Yanji Cuia,
- Yoon-Sil Yanga,
- Moon-Seok Kanga,
- Sung-Cherl Junga,
- Hyeung Keun Parkb,
- Hye-Young Yeunc,
- Won Jung Jangd,
- Sunjoo Leee,
- Young Sook Kwakf,
- Su-Yong Euna
Abstract
Objectives
Aromatherapy massage is commonly used for the stress management of healthy individuals, and also has been often employed as a therapeutic use for pain control and alleviating psychological distress, such as anxiety and depression, in oncological palliative care patients. However, the exact biological basis of aromatherapy massage is poorly understood. Therefore, we evaluated here the effects of aromatherapy massage interventions on multiple neurobiological indices such as quantitative psychological assessments, electroencephalogram (EEG) power spectrum pattern, salivary cortisol and plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels.
Design
A control group without treatment (n = 12) and aromatherapy massage group (n = 13) were randomly recruited. They were all females whose children were diagnosed as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and followed up in the Department of Psychiatry, Jeju National University Hospital. Participants were treated with aromatherapy massage for 40 min twice per week for 4 weeks (8 interventions).
Results
A 4-week-aromatherapy massage program significantly improved all psychological assessment scores in the Stat-Trait Anxiety Index, Beck Depression Inventory and Short Form of Psychosocial Well-being Index. Interestingly, plasma BDNF levels were significantly increased after a 4 week-aromatherapy massage program. Alpha-brain wave activities were significantly enhanced and delta wave activities were markedly reduced following the one-time aromatherapy massage treatment, as shown in the meditation and neurofeedback training. In addition, salivary cortisol levels were significantly reduced following the one-time aromatherapy massage treatment.
Conclusions
These results suggest that aromatherapy massage could exert significant influences on multiple neurobiological indices such as EEG pattern, salivary cortisol and plasma BDNF levels as well as psychological assessments.
Source : Complementary Therapies in Medicine
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Safety and Tolerability of Essential Oil from Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume Leaves with Action on Oral Candidosis and Its Effect on the Physical Properties of the Acrylic Resin
Julyana de Araújo Oliveira,1 Ingrid Carla Guedes da Silva,1 Leonardo Antunes Trindade,1 Edeltrudes Oliveira Lima,1 Hugo Lemes Carlo,1 Alessandro Leite Cavalcanti,2 and Ricardo Dias de Castro1,2
1Post-Graduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
2Post-Graduate Program in Dentistry, State University of Paraíba, Campina Grande, PB, Brazil
Abstract
The anti-Candida activity of essential oil from Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume, as well as its effect on the roughness and hardness of the acrylic resin used in dental prostheses, was assessed. The safety and tolerability of the test product were assessed through a phase I clinical trial involving users of removable dentures. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFC) were determined against twelve Candida strains. Acrylic resin specimens were exposed to artificial saliva (GI), C. zeylanicum(GII), and nystatin (GIII) for 15 days. Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey posttest (alpha=5%). For the phase I clinical trial, 15 healthy patients used solution of C. zeylanicum at MIC (15 days, 3 times a day) and were submitted to clinical and mycological examinations. C. zeylanicum showed anti-Candida activity, with MIC = 625.0 µg/mL being equivalent to MFC. Nystatin caused greater increase in roughness and decreased the hardness of the material (P<0.0005), with no significant differences between GI and GII. As regards the clinical trial, no adverse clinical signs were observed after intervention. The substance tested had a satisfactory level of safety and tolerability, supporting new advances involving the clinical use of essential oil from C. zeylanicum.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Effects of Anethole in Nociception Experimental Models
Alessandra Mileni Versuti Ritter,1 Franciele Queiroz Ames,1 Fernando Otani,1 Rubia Maria Weffort de Oliveira,2 Roberto Kenji Nakamura Cuman,1 and Ciomar Aparecida Bersani-Amado1
1Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Laboratory of Inflammation, State University of Maringá, Avenida Colombo 5790, 87020-900 Maringá, PR, Brazil
2Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Laboratory of Brain Ischemia and Neuroprotection, State University of Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil
Abstract
This study investigated the antinociceptive activity of anethole (anethole 1-methoxy-4-benzene (1-propenyl)), major compound of the essential oil of star anise (Illicium verum), in different experimental models of nociception. The animals were pretreated with anethole (62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg) one hour before the experiments. To eliminate a possible sedative effect of anethole, the open field test was conducted. Anethole (62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg) showed an antinociceptive effect in the writhing model induced by acetic acid, in the second phase of the formalin test (125 and 250 mg/kg) in the test of glutamate (62.5, 125, and 250 mg/kg), and expresses pain induced by ACF (250 mg/kg). In contrast, anethole was not able to increase the latency time on the hot plate and decrease the number of flinches during the initial phase of the formalin test in any of the doses tested. It was also demonstrated that anethole has no association with sedative effects. Therefore, these data showed that anethole, at all used doses, has no sedative effect and has an antinociceptive effect. This effect may be due to a decrease in the production/release of inflammatory mediators.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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The Effectiveness of Essential Oils for Patients with Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled Study
Ou Ming-Chiu, Lee Yu-Fei, Li Chih-Ching, and Wu Shyi-Kuen
1Department of Applied Cosmetology and Master Program of Cosmetic Science, Hungkuang University, Taichung, Taiwan.
2Department of Physical Therapy, Hungkuang University, Taichung, Taiwan.
Abstract
Objectives: To assess the efficacy of aromatic essential oils on neck pain.
Design: Sixty participants with a history of neck pain and Neck Disability Index (NDI) score >10% were selected and randomly divided into control and experimental groups.
Setting: Motion analysis laboratory at Hungkuang University.
Intervention: For the experimental group, the intervention included 3% concentration cream composed of four essential oils: marjoram, black pepper, lavender, and peppermint. For the control group, only an unscented cream was provided. For 4 weeks, all patients applied 2 g cream directly to the affected area daily after showering or bathing.
Outcome measures: Assessment was performed by using a visual analogue scale (VAS), NDI, pressure pain threshold (PPT) evaluated with a pressure meter, and neck-joint range evaluated with Motion Analysis System (MAS).
Results: A t-test statistical analysis by SPSS statistical software indicated that VAS scores improved significantly for both groups (p<0.05). In addition, the experimental group had improved pain tolerance in the left upper trapezius (mean±standard deviation, 2.96±2.54) and right upper trapezius (2.88±2.90) as measured by the PPT. According to the NDI, the experimental group also showed significant improvement (p=0.02). Comparison of MAS values before and after the intervention showed significant improvement in the 10 motion areas in the experimental group. This finding suggests that the experimental group had better results than the control group.
Conclusion: The essential oil cream developed in this study can be used to improve neck pain. This study appears to be the first to quantify this by using PPT and MAS.
Source : The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
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Inhibitory effect of essential oils against herpes simplex virus type 2.
Abstract
Essential oils from anise, hyssop, thyme, ginger, camomile and sandalwood were screened for their inhibitory effect against herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) in vitro on RC-37 cells using a plaque reduction assay. Genital herpes is a chronic, persistent infection spreading efficiently and silently as sexually transmitted disease through the population. Antiviral agents currently applied for the treatment of herpesvirus infections include acyclovir and its derivatives. The inhibitory concentrations ([IC.sub.50]) were determined at 0.016%, 0.0075%, 0.007%, 0.004%, 0.003% and 0.0015% for anise oil, hyssop oil, thyme oil, ginger oil, camomile oil and sandalwood oil, respectively. A clearly dose-dependent virucidal activity against HSV-2 could be demonstrated for all essential oils tested. In order to determine the mode of the inhibitory effect, essential oils were added at different stages during the viral infection cycle. At maximum noncytotoxic concentrations of the essential oils, plaque formation was significantly reduced by more than 90% when HSV-2 was preincubated with hyssop oil, thyme oil or ginger oil. However, no inhibitory effect could be observed when the essential oils were added to the cells prior to infection with HSV-2 or after the adsorption period. These results indicate that essential oils affected HSV-2 mainly before adsorption probably by interacting with the viral envelope. Camomile oil exhibited a high selectivity index and seems to be a promising candidate for topical therapeutic application as virucidal agents for treatment of herpes genitalis.
Source : International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacology
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Antidepressant-like effect of Salvia sclarea is explained by modulation of dopamine activities in rats
.Seol GH1, Shim HS, Kim PJ, Moon HK, Lee KH, Shim I, Suh SH, Min SS.Author information
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY: The purpose of the present study was to screen aromatic essential oils that have antidepressant effects to identify the regulatory mechanisms of selected essential oils.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The antidepressant effects of essential oils of Anthemis nobilis (chamomile), Salvia sclarea (clary sage; clary), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), and Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) were assessed using a forced swim test (FST) in rats. Rats were treated with essential oils by intraperitoneal injection or inhalation. Serum levels of corticosterone were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
RESULTS: Among the essential oils tested, 5% (v/v) clary oil had the strongest anti-stressor effect in the FST. We further investigated the mechanism of clary oil antidepression by pretreatment with agonists or antagonists to serotonin (5-HT), dopamine (DA), adrenaline, and GABA receptors. The anti-stressor effect of clary oil was significantly blocked by pretreatment with buspirone (a 5-HT(1A) agonist), SCH-23390 (a D(1) receptor antagonist) and haloperidol (a D(2), D(3), and D(4) receptor antagonist).
CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that clary oil could be developed as a therapeutic agent for patients with depression and that the antidepressant-like effect of clary oil is closely associated with modulation of the DAnergic pathway.
Source : J Ethnopharmacol.
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Effect of Aromatherapy on Cognitive Test Anxiety Among Nursing Students
Catherine E. Johnson, PhD, RN, MSN, MBA
Abstract
Objective: To assess the effect of aromatherapy (Citrus limon [lemon] essential oil) on cognitive test anxiety among nursing students, Cognitive Test Anxiety Survey (CTAS) scores were measured pre- and postintervention.
Participants: Thirty-nine (39) sophomore nursing students(35 female and 4 male) from a private, 4-year college participated in this study.
Materials and Methods: A quantitative, randomized, pretest–posttest design was used. One nursing examination was used for baseline data and all participants were e-mailed the CTAS. The experimental group completed the second examination in a room with diffused aromatherapy, and the contro lgroup remained in a classroom without aromatherapy. The CTAS was e-mailed for comparison data.
Results: There were no significant differences between the control and study groups in relation to preintervention cognitive anxiety scores (mean [M] = 78.17 and M = 73.62), respectively .In the control group, there was a 3-point decrease in cognitive test anxiety scores between pretest and post-test. However, there was a significant decrease in cognitive test anxiety scores in the students who received aromatherapy compared to those who did not (P = 0.10). Age and gender were not moderating variables in this study.
Conclusions: Diffused lemon essential oil is a safe, costeffective intervention that had a positive effect on cognitive test anxiety among nursing students.
Source : Alternative and Complementary Medicine
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Essential Oils for Complementary Treatment of Surgical Patients: State of the Art
Susanna Stea,1 Alina Beraudi,1,2 and Dalila De Pasquale1,2
1Medical Technology Laboratory, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy
2Prometeo Laboratory, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy
Abstract
Aromatherapy is the controlled use of plant essences for therapeutic purposes. Its applications are numerous (i.e., wellbeing, labour, infections, dementia, and anxiety treatment) but often they have not been scientifically validated. The aim of the present study is to review the available literature to determine if there is evidence for effectiveness of aromatherapy in surgical patients to treat anxiety and insomnia, to control pain and nausea, and to dress wound. Efficacy studies of lavender or orange and peppermint essential oils, to treat anxiety and nausea, respectively, have shown positive results. For other aspects, such as pain control, essential oils therapy has shown uncertain results. Finally, there are encouraging data for the treatment of infections, especially for tea tree oil, although current results are still inconclusive. It should also be considered that although they are, allergic reactions and toxicity can occur after oral ingestion. Therefore, while rigorous studies are being carried out, it is important that the therapeutic use of essential oils be performed in compliance with clinical safety standards.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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The effects of aromatherapy on nicotine craving on a U.S. campus: a small comparison study.
Cordell B, Buckle J.
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.
Source : Journal Alternative Complementary Medicine
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With Lavender Aromatherapy, Children Required Fewer Analgesics following Tonsillectomy
Soltani R, Soheilipour S, Hajhashemi V, Asghari G, Bagheri M, Molavi M.
Evaluation of the effect of aromatherapy with lavender essential oil on post-tonsillectomy pain in pediatric patients: A randomized controlled trial. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2013;77(9):1579-1581.
Tonsillectomy is among the most common childhood surgeries. One of its main complications is pain, which can cause poor oral intake and dehydration post-surgery, leading to morbidity and delayed recovery. No ideal treatment is available. Because children may also experience postoperative nausea and vomiting, pain relievers delivered through non-oral routes are needed. Many aromatic and medicinal plants contain chemical compounds that make them appropriate for aromatherapy, which is noninvasive and can be applied continuously to patients. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is used in traditional medicine for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. These authors, from Iran, explain that in Iranian folk and traditional medicine, lavender is used as a carminative, diuretic, antiepileptic, antirheumatic, and pain reliever. They conducted a randomized, controlled, prospective research study to evaluate the effectiveness of aromatherapy with lavender essential oil on post-tonsillectomy pain in children.
The study, conducted at Isfahan (Iran) University of Medical Sciences, included 48 patients aged 6 to 12 years who underwent tonsillectomy. Following surgery, all patients received acetaminophen (10-15 mg/kg per dose) every 7 hours for pain. The patients in the treatment group (n=24) also inhaled lavender essential oil every 6 hours by applying 4 droplets of the oil on their palm, rubbing their hands together, and inhaling it for 3 minutes. Neither the manufacturer of the lavender essential oil nor the oil's chemical profile was included in the article.
The frequencies of daily use of acetaminophen and nocturnal awakening due to pain, as well as pain intensity, were recorded for each patient for the first 3 days after surgery. Pain intensity was assessed by using a visual analog scale (VAS).
The authors report that the use of lavender essential oil significantly reduced the frequency of acetaminophen use during each of the 3 postoperative days (P<0.001). It did not, however, significantly impact pain intensity or frequency of nocturnal awakening.
The authors explain that the lack of effect on pain severity in this study and in previous studies may be due to the use of analgesic agents in both groups, making the assessment of pain intensity more difficult, and to the subjective nature of the VAS in measuring pain intensity.
The lack of a placebo in the control group and the small sample size are limitations of this study. Details regarding the essential oil should have been included in this article.
The authors conclude, "This study suggests that aromatherapy with lavender essential oil decreases analgesic requirement following tonsillectomy in pediatric patients. This could be a cost-effective, available and safe treatment option."
―Shari Henson
Source : American Botanical Council
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The Anxiolytic Effect of Aromatherapy on Patients Awaiting Ambulatory Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Cheng-Hua Ni,1,2,3,4 Wen-Hsuan Hou,4,5,6 Ching-Chiu Kao,1,2 Ming-Li Chang,2 Lee-Fen Yu,1,2 Chia-Che Wu,7,8 and Chiehfeng Chen6,9,10,11
1School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
2Department of Nursing, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11696, Taiwan
3Head Nurse of Operating Room, Department of Nursing, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11696, Taiwan
4Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
5School of Gerontology Healthcare Management, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
6Center for Evidence-Based Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
7Department of Otolaryngology, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11696, Taiwan
8Department of Otolaryngology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
9Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
10Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11696, Taiwan
11Evidence-Based Medicine Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11696, Taiwan
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine if aromatherapy could reduce preoperative anxiety in ambulatory surgery patients. A total of 109 preoperative patients were randomly assigned to experimental (bergamot essential oil) and control (water vapor) conditions and their responses to the State Trait Anxiety Inventory and vital signs were monitored. Patients were stratified by previous surgical experience, but that did not influence the results. All those exposed to bergamot essential oil aromatherapy showed a greater reduction in preoperative anxiety than those in the control groups. Aromatherapy may be a useful part of a holistic approach to reducing preoperative anxiety before ambulatory surgery.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Phytochemical composition, antifungal, antiaflatoxigenic, antioxidant, and anticancer activities of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. and Matricaria chamomilla L. essential oils
Enas M. Ali
Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt.
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to investigate the antifungal, antiaflatoxigenic, antioxidant, and anticancer activities of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. and Matricaria chamomilla L. essential oils and their phytochemical composition. The essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation and their phytochemical composition was determined throughout gas chromatography-mas spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Both essential oils and their mixture showed broad antifungal spectrum against Aspergillus flavus, an important food contaminating fungus. The essential oils of G. glabra and M. chamomilla completely inhibited aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) production at 800 ppm. Both oils exhibited antioxidant activity as DPPH free radical scavenger in dose dependent manner. Percentage of radical scavenging activity of G. glabra and M. chamomilla oils at 400 μg/ml were calculated to be 85.2 and 91.7%, respectively as compared to standard (BHT) with 75.6% activity at the same concentration. The anticancer properties of essential oils against cells (MCF-7) were evaluated. In anticancer activity exposure of essential oils caused a significant decrease in cell viability in MCF-7 cell line (breast carcinoma). Exposure of MCF-7 cells with G. glabra essential oils resulted in dose dependent increase in cell growth inhibition (CGI) varying from 3 to 77% at concentration ranging from 10 to 640 μg/ml. Similarly, 7 to 89% CGI was obtained when M. chamomilla essential oils was used. The present study demonstrated that essential oils of G. glabra and M. chamomilla have potent antifungal, antioxidant, and anticancer with the presence of effective phytochemicals.
Source : Journal of Medicinal Plant Research
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Study of the composition of Thymus vulgaris essential oil, developing of topic formulations and evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy
Gisele Mara Silva Gonçalves1*, Silvana Mariana Srebernich2, Neura Bragagnolo3, Elisângela Serenato Madalozzo3, Vania Leandro Merhi2 and Denise Cristina Pires1
1School of Pharmaceutical Science, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas, Brazil.
2School of Nutrition, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas, Brazil.
3School of Food Engineering, UNICAMP, Brazil.
Abstract
The essential oil of Thymus vulgaris has been the subject of extensive studies and developing formulations for the placement of essential oils is not an easy task due especially to it high volatility and low stability. The aims of this work were to study of the composition of T. vulgaris essential oil, development of topic formulations and evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy on Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The composition of the oil was analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Microbiological disk diffusion and microdilution tests were carried out to determine the minimum inhibitory and minimum bactericidal concentrations. The substance was added to a cream gel formulation which underwent thermal stability, physical and chemical-physical tests (in addition to a drop test) to verify if the antimicrobial effects remained unchanged. The most abundant compounds were geraniol, thymol, gama-terpinene, para-cymene, citral, 3-octanone, and 3-octenol. The essential oil in formulation had similar antimicrobial effects in comparison to the essential oil itself; the formulation was partially stable during the study period. Formulations with T. vulgaris essential oil effectively inhibited microbial growth. The results show a reasonable stability of the formulation. The topical use of essential oil from thyme is a promising alternative for cosmetic and phytotherapeutic use.
Source : The Journal of Medicinal Plant Research
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In vitro activity of Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea tree) and Eucalyptus globulus essential oils on oral Candida biofilm formation on polymethylmethacrylate
Noumi Emira1*, Snoussi Mejdi2 and Mahjoub Aouni1
1Laboratoire des Maladies Transmissibles et des Substances Biologiquement Actives, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Monastir, Tunisie.
2Laboratoire de Traitement des Eaux Usées, Centre de Recherches et des Technologies des Eaux (CERTE), Technopole de Borj-Cédria, BP 273- Soliman 8020, Tunisie
Abstract
Melaleuca alternifolia and Eucalyptus globulus essential oils are known for their antifungal activities and efficacy in the treatment of oral candidiasis. Candida biofilm increased resistance to antifungal agents that have activity against their planktonic cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential role of M. alternifolia and E. globulus essential oils in the inhibition of Candida biofilm formation on polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). The antifungal activity of M. alternifolia and E. globulus essential oils and adhesion and biofilm on PMMA inhibition capacity were tested on two oral Candida isolates and two reference type strains. The biofilm formation by Candida strains was quantified by colorimetric method based on the reduction of the 2, 3-bis (2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-5-[(phenyl amino) carbonyl]-2H-tetrazolium hydroxide (XTT). M. alternifolia and E. globulus essential oils were active against clinical and reference Candida albicans and Candida glabrata strains in their planktonic and adherent phases. In fact, both minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) and 1/2 MIC values of these two plants essential oils can inhibit adhesion and biofilm formation of clinical and reference strains of Candida on PMMA. Also, E. globulus essential oil was more active on Candida biofilm formation on PMMA. M. alternifolia and E. globulus essential oils can inhibit Candida biofilm formation on PMMA. This may contribute to the use of these plants as alternative products for oral Candida biofilm prevention, control and treatment.
Source : Journal of Medicinal Plants Research
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Aromatherapy with Peppermint, Basil, and Helichrysum Essential Oils for Mental Exhaustion and Burnout Relief
Varney E, Buckle J
Burnout is characterized by exhaustion related to chronic pressure at work or home. Aromatherapy may help alleviate symptoms of burnout. Lavender aromatherapy may reduce stress by inducing relaxation; however, this may not be optimal for burnout since it may exacerbate symptoms by increasing sedation and the inability to concentrate. Therefore, the authors decided to evaluate 2 stimulating essential oils to address the fatigue, and a balancing essential oil to address anxiety. Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) essential oil has been shown to increase alertness and mental clarity. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) essential oil has been shown to reduce mental fatigue and has antidepressant properties. Helichrysum (curry plant; Helichrysum italicum) essential oil is known for its calming and soothing properties. Rose (Rosa spp.) water, as opposed to rose essential oil, was used as the control because it has a subtle aroma, and it is not known to have any therapeutic effects. The purpose of this randomized, double-blind, controlled pilot study was to assess the effect of inhalation of essential oils on the symptoms of mental exhaustion or burnout.
Adults (n = 14; aged 25-46 years) with self-assessed mental exhaustion or burnout participated in the study conducted at a private psychotherapy practice in Andover, Maine. The included subjects responded to an email sent to friends and colleagues. Subjects randomly received an aromatherapy mixture or placebo (rose water) in plastic personal inhalers. The aromatherapy mixture contained 4 drops of jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) oil, 10 drops of peppermint essential oil (SunRose Aromatics; Bronx, New York), 8 drops of basil essential oil (Florihana Distributors; France), and 2 drops of helichrysum essential oil (Florihana Distributors). The control inhalers contained 4 drops of jojoba oil and 20 drops of rose water (Heritage Products; Virginia Beach, Virginia). A 0-10 point assessment scale was used to rate mental fatigue or mild burnout, where 10 = no burnout, feeling alert, focused, hopeful, and optimistic and 0 = extreme burnout, lack of attention at work, negative feelings, lack of focus, and drowsiness. The subjects rated mental fatigue/burnout 3 times per day. During week 1, baseline measurements were taken (no aromatherapy). During week 2, subjects inhaled the aromatherapy once per hour during working hours (i.e., approximately 7 times per day). Week 3 was the washout period, and subjects recorded their feelings without the use of aromatherapy.
At baseline, both groups had mild "difficulty focusing, drifting attention, feeling neutral or, just going through the motions of the day" (a score of 4 out of 10). During week 2, the aromatherapy group had a 21.1% improvement and the placebo group had an 11.3% improvement. During week 3, some of the improvement persisted; compared with baseline, the aromatherapy group had an 8.7% improvement and the placebo group had a 7.1% improvement. No statistics were run, which is appropriate since the n was so small (n = 7 per group).
This study is limited by its small size and the fact that 99% of the subjects were women. Another limitation was that the subjects were self-diagnosed, and that burnout was mild. The study was well blinded in that subjects could not discern the odors. Compliance was not very good for all subjects (although the percentage of compliance was not reported). Some subjects reported that it was helpful to take a breathing break, which in itself could have provided some benefit. This aspect needs to be controlled for in future studies. Another subject reported concern with colleagues seeing her use an inhaler throughout the day. The findings from this pilot study will be helpful to guide future, better-designed studies. Inhaling a mixture of peppermint, basil, and helichrysum essential oils several times a day appears to reduce the symptoms of moderate mental exhaustion and/or burnout.
Source : American Botanical Council via Effect of inhaled essential oils on mental exhaustion and moderate burnout: A small pilot study. J Altern Complement Med. 2013;19(1):69-71.
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Assessing the Metabolic Effects of Aromatherapy in Human Volunteers
Yinan Zhang,1 Yani Wu,2 Tianlu Chen,1 Lei Yao,2 Jiajian Liu,1 Xiaolan Pan,2 Yixue Hu,2 Aihua Zhao,1 Guoxiang Xie,1,3 and Wei Jia1,3
1Center for Translational Medicine and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Diabetes Mellitus, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai 200233, China
2School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
3Center for Translational Biomedical Research, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Kannapolis, NC 28081, USA
Abstract
Aromatherapy, a form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) that uses essential oils through inhalation, is believed to enhance physical and spiritual conditions. Although clinical studies suggest that the use of essential oils may have therapeutic potential, evidence for the efficacy of aromatherapy in treating medical conditions remains poor, with a particular lack of studies employing rigorous analytical methods that capture its identifiable impact on human biology. Here, we report a comprehensive metabolomics study that reveals metabolic changes in people after exposed to aroma inhalation for 10 continuous days. In this study, the metabolic alterations in urine of 31 females with mild anxiety symptoms exposed to aerial diffusion of aromas were measured by GC-TOF-MS and UPLC-Q-TOF-MS analyses. A significant alteration of metabolic profile in subjects responsive to essential oil was found, which is characterized by the increased levels of arginine, homocysteine, and betaine, as well as decreased levels of alcohols, carbohydrates, and organic acids in urine. Notably, the metabolites from tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and gut microbial metabolism were significantly altered. This study demonstrates that the metabolomics approach can capture the subtle metabolic changes resulting from exposure to essential oils, which may lead to an improved mechanistic understanding of aromatherapy.
....In conclusion, we identified the global metabolic responses to aromatherapy characterized by unique metabolic signatures in human urine involving carbohydrates, organic acids, amino acids, and pyrimidine. The metabolites involved in TCA cycle and gut microbe metabolism were significantly decreased after being exposed to essential oil inhalation for 10 days. These distinctions collectively constitute a metabolic window into essential oil effect, providing metabolic endpoints that complement the interpretation of behavioral research. The results of this study also highlight the potential of this sufficiently robust and noninvasive profiling approach for research on the CAM of aromatherapy.
Source : Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine Volume 2013 (2013), Article ID 356381, 9 pages
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Investigating the Effect of Aromatherapy in Patients with Renal Colic
Murat Ayan, MD,1 Ufuk Tas, MD,2 Erkan Sogut, MD,3 Mustafa Suren, MD,4 Levent Gurbuzler, MD,5 and Feridun Koyuncu, MD6
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey.
2Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey.
3Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey.
4Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey.
5Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey
.6Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem Vakıf University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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 severe pain]).
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, and 1.08±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.
Source : The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
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The Influence of Olfactory Stimulation by Essential Oils on Salivary Alpha-Amylase Activity and State Anxiety Level
Yoshie NAGATA1,2,*, Yoko MIYASHITA2,3, Mitsuru MORI2
1 Department of Nursing, Hokkaido Bunkyo University School of Faculty of Human Science
2 Department of Public Health, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine
3 Department of Health and Nutrition, Hokkaido Bunkyo University School of Faculty of Human Science
Abstract
It is considered that olfactory stimulation by fragrance inhalation is one of the methods of relaxation. We examined the possibility by using fragrance inhalation essential oils, such as sweet orange oil and peppermint oil. We measured salivary alpha-amylase activity and stateanxiety levels in undergraduate students before and after inhalation. Salivary alpha-amylase activity levels have been utilized to assess the sympathetic nervous activity. Our results indicate that both salivary alpha-amylase activity and state anxiety levels are significantly reduced after fragrance inhalation of the sweet orange oil. Consequently, our research suggests that sweet orange essential oil has a relaxation effect.
Source : Journal Japanese of Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Liquid and vapour-phase antifungal activities of selected essential oils against candida albicans: microscopic observations and chemical characterization of cymbopogon citratus
Amit K Tyagi*, Anushree Malik
Abstract
Background:
Use of essential oils for controlling Candida albicans growth has gained significance due to the resistance acquired by pathogens towards a number of widely-used drugs. The aim of this study was to test the antifungal activity of selected essential oils against Candida albicans in liquid and vapour phase and to determine the chemical composition and mechanism of action of most potent essential oil.
Methods:
Minimum Inhibitory concentration (MIC) of different essential oils in liquid phase, assayed through agar plate dilution, broth dilution & 96-well micro plate dilution method and vapour phase activity evaluated through disc volatilization method. Reduction of C. albicans cells with vapour exposure was estimated by kill time assay. Morphological alteration in treated/untreated C. albicans cells was observed by the Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)/Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and chemical analysis of the strongest antifungal agent/essential oil has been done by GC, GC-MS.
Results:
Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) essential oil exhibited the strongest antifungal effect followed by mentha (Mentha piperita) and eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) essential oil. The MIC of lemon grass essential oil in liquid phase (288 mg/l) was significantly higher than that in the vapour phase (32.7 mg/l) and a 4 h exposure was sufficient to cause 100% loss in viability of C. albicans cells. SEM/AFM of C. albicans cells treated with lemon grass essential oil at MIC level in liquid and vapour phase showed prominent shrinkage and partial degradation, respectively, confirming higher efficacy of vapour phase. GC-MS analysis revealed that lemon grass essential oil was dominated by oxygenated monoterpenes (78.2%); a-citral or geranial (36.2%) and b-citral or neral (26.5%), monoterpene hydrocarbons (7.9%) and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (3.8%).
Conclusion:
Lemon grass essential oil is highly effective in vapour phase against C. albicans, leading to deleterious morphological changes in cellular structures and cell surface alterations.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2010, 10:65 http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/10/65
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Inhibitory effect of essential oils against herpes simplex virus type 2
C. Kocha,b, J. Reichlingb, J. Schneeleb, P. Schnitzlera,
aDepartment of Virology, Hygiene Institute, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
bDepartment of Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
Abstract
Essential oils from anise, hyssop, thyme, ginger, camomile and sandalwood were screened for their inhibitory effect
against herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) in vitro on RC-37 cells using a plaque reduction assay. Genital herpes is a
chronic, persistent infection spreading efficiently and silently as sexually transmitted disease through the population.
Antiviral agents currently applied for the treatment of herpesvirus infections include acyclovir and its derivatives. The
inhibitory concentrations (IC50) were determined at 0.016%, 0.0075%, 0.007%, 0.004%, 0.003% and 0.0015% for
anise oil, hyssop oil, thyme oil, ginger oil, camomile oil and sandalwood oil, respectively. A clearly dose-dependent
virucidal activity against HSV-2 could be demonstrated for all essential oils tested. In order to determine the mode of
the inhibitory effect, essential oils were added at different stages during the viral infection cycle. At maximum
noncytotoxic concentrations of the essential oils, plaque formation was significantly reduced by more than 90% when
HSV-2 was preincubated with hyssop oil, thyme oil or ginger oil. However, no inhibitory effect could be observed
when the essential oils were added to the cells prior to infection with HSV-2 or after the adsorption period. These
results indicate that essential oils affected HSV-2 mainly before adsorption probably by interacting with the viral
envelope. Camomile oil exhibited a high selectivity index and seems to be a promising candidate for topical therapeutic
application as virucidal agents for treatment of herpes genitalis.
Source : Phytomedicine
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Lavender Oil Aromatherapy Reduces Falls in Elderly Nursing Home Residents in Long-Term Trial
by Heather S. Oliff, PhD
Reviewed: Sakamoto Y, Ebihara S, Ebihara T, et al. Fall prevention using olfactory stimulation with lavender odor in elderly nursing home residents: a randomized controlled trial. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2012;60(6):1005-1011.
Falls are a major health problem for the elderly, as they are linked to increased morbidity and mortality. Risk factors for falls include physical weakness, gait and balance instability, sedating and psychotropic medications, and cognitive impairment. The latter is a strong factor due to the multiple behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), such as pacing, wandering, aggression, anxiety, and agitation. The essential oil of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia, Lamiaceae) is used in aromatherapy to treat anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, and melancholy. Studies have shown that aromatherapy using lavender can improve balance and gait performance and reduce anxiety in elderly people. The purpose of this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study was to evaluate the effect of continuous lavender olfactory stimulation on the incidence and risk of falls in elderly nursing home residents.
The study was conducted in three nursing homes in Aomori, Japan. It included 175 subjects, aged 65 years or more, who had the ability to move independently — with or without assistive devices. Subjects with pica disorder (appetite for non-nutritive substances such as dirt or paper) were excluded. Lavender olfactory stimulation was provided using a commercially available 1 cm by 2 cm paper patch (Aromaseal Lavender, Hakujuji Co.; Tokyo, Japan). The placebo was an identical unscented Aromaseal paper patch. The Aromaseal lavender patch originally was developed to help busy and stressed people relax by providing continuous olfactory exposure to lavender for 24 hours. The odor is so faint that it can be sensed only by the person wearing the patch. (Note: No information was provided on the lavender raw material source [i.e., the herb from which the lavender oil was distilled], oil concentration or other chemical features of the oil, or the patch production). The head nurse prepared the patches and distributed them to the nursing home staff who affixed one patch inside each subject’s clothing near the neck. The staff replaced the patch daily for 360 days.
The primary outcome measure was the number of falls. A fall was determined in accordance with the World Health Organization’s definition: “an event which results in a person coming to rest inadvertently on the ground or floor or other lower level.” The nursing home staff was trained to identify and record daily falls according to this definition. Behavioral measurements included the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory to quantify behavioral and psychological symptoms, the Barthel Index to assess level of functional ability, the mini-mental state exam (MMSE) to assess cognitive function, and the Vitality Index to assess activity of daily living (ADL)-related vitality. The groups did not significantly differ in age or risk factors for falls.
There were a total of 62 falls reported over the course of one year, with subjects in the lavender group falling 0-5 times and subjects in the placebo group falling 0-7 times (only 2 falls resulted in injury; one in each group). In the lavender group, 35.6% of subjects fell at least once, and 50% of the placebo group fell at least once. In the placebo group, 47% had recurrent falls, while only 24% in the lavender group had more than one fall (P=0.08). The total number of falls in the placebo group was 88 compared to 46 falls in the lavender group. The incidence rate ratio (IRR) for the lavender group was significantly lower than for the placebo group (P<0.04). After adjusting for confounding variables (such as age, sex, fall history, MMSE, tranquilizer use, etc.), the IRR significance was even greater (P<0.02).
There were no between-group differences in behavioral and cognitive measurements at baseline. At 12 months, the lavender group had a significant decrease from baseline in agitated status (P=0.04); in contrast, the placebo group did not. There was no significant difference between groups in the number of subjects who were given newly prescribed tranquilizers. However, the frequency of tranquilizer use was lower in this trial compared to other studies — a difference the authors attributed to the use of Yokukansan, a traditional Asian medicine commonly prescribed for BPSD. Yokukansan contains toki or Japanese dong quai (Angelica acutiloba, Apiaceae), cang-zhu atractylodes (Atractylodes lancea, Asteraceae), Chinese thoroughwax (Bupleurum chinense, Apiaceae), poria (Wolfiporia cocos syn. Poria cocos, Polyporaceae), Chinese licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Fabaceae), marsh parsley (Ligusticum ibukiense syn. Cnidium officinale, Apiaceae), and gambir (Uncaria rhynchophylla, Rubiaceae). No adverse events were reported.
The authors concluded that daily olfactory stimulation with lavender may prevent falls in elderly nursing home residents. Although the mechanism is unknown, the results of this study support lavender’s traditional use to soothe anxiety and agitation, which may play a role in reducing falls. Lavender’s previously demonstrated stabilizing effects on balance also may be a factor. Additionally, the authors suggested that the relationship between lavender stimulation, tranquilizers, and Yokukansan warrants further investigation.
In the final analysis, only two of the 145 subjects incurred injurious falls; this study was not large enough to detect clinically relevant reductions in injurious falls. The study also is limited by its potential lack of adequate blinding, which could have resulted in reporting biases. The nurses applied the patches to the patients, and there is the chance they could not remember which patient received which patch. Also, the possibility exists that some subjects could not detect the odor (olfactory functioning was not tested). The results cannot be generalized because people in nursing homes are subjected to different, and possibly fewer, environmental risks than the elderly dwelling outside of nursing homes. Although no adverse events were reported, the authors did not rigorously evaluate safety of long-term use.
—Heather S. Oliff, PhD
Source : Herbal Gram (ABC)
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