Aromatherapy: The Effect of Lavender on Anxiety and Sleep Quality in Patients Treated With Chemotherapy (original) (raw)

2018, Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing

ESSENTIAL OILS ARE CHEMICALS EXTRACTED FROM PARTS OF PLANTS that have a unique aroma and complex chemical properties (National Cancer Institute [NCI], 2018; Worwood, 2016). Essential oils can be inhaled, digested, or applied topically, and they are eliminated from the body through urine and by respiration (Maddocks-Jennings & Wilkinson, 2004; NCI, 2018). They were introduced to nursing care by Florence Nightingale, and their use grows daily by nurses with certification in the use of essential oils (Gnatta, Kurebayashi, Turrini, & Silva, 2016; Smith & Kyle, 2008). Lavender is a member of the mint family and contains linalyl acetate, linalool, and caryophyllene. Lavandula angustifolia increases the effect of gamma-Aminobutyric acid on the amygdala and has narcotic and sedative effects similar to those of benzodiazepines (Conrad & Adams, 2012; Fismer & Pilkington, 2012; Maddocks-Jennings & Wilkinson, 2004). In addition, Lavandula hybrida has relaxing and sedative properties (Price & Price, 2011). In addition to its antibacterial, antifungal, and carminative characteristics, which increase wound healing and the detoxification of enzymes associated with insect bites, lavender has no known contraindications and is safe to use (