Evidence supporting the use of: Aroma
For the health condition: Anxiety Disorders

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Aromatherapy, the use of aromatic plant extracts and essential oils, is commonly employed as a complementary intervention for anxiety disorders. Scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is modest but present. Several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews have examined the anxiolytic effects of essential oils such as lavender, bergamot, and chamomile. For instance, inhalation of lavender essential oil has been shown in some studies to reduce self-reported anxiety in both clinical and non-clinical populations. The mechanisms are not fully understood but are thought to involve modulation of neurotransmitter systems, including GABAergic activity.

However, the quality of evidence varies: many studies have small sample sizes, lack blinding, or use subjective outcome measures. Meta-analyses suggest that while aromatherapy may provide mild to moderate short-term anxiety reduction, the effects are not robust or consistent across all populations. The most consistently studied and supported oil is lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), which has shown some positive results in controlled trials.

Overall, aromatherapy is considered safe for most users and may be recommended as an adjunctive treatment for anxiety, particularly for those seeking non-pharmacological options. However, based on current evidence, it should not replace established treatments for anxiety disorders, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or pharmacotherapy.

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Products containing Aroma

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.