Patients with coronary heart disease often experience very high anxiety levels when admitted to hospital. research indicates that anxiety, stress and related insomnia significantly affect the efficacy of treatment for coronary heart disease.
A Korean study investigated the effects of aromatherapy on anxiety, blood pressure and sleep quality of patients undergoing procedures for coronary heart disease. The study involved 56 patients who were split into control or aromatherapy groups. the aromatherapy oils used were lavender ( reported to lower Blood pressure), roman chamomile ( to relieve anxiety and stress) and neroli ( to calm and ease insomnia). Aroma stones were used to enable the patients to inhale the aromas prior to their procedure and during the night afterwards.
Anxiety, blood pressure and sleep quality measures were recorded. The results indicated that anxiety levels were significantly reduced in the aromatherapy group. The sleep quality was also improved while the control group reported significantly worse sleep. The blood pressure of both groups remained comparative with no significant difference.
More reserach is needed but the authors concluded that aromatherapy could become a valuable part of care in hospital.
Find out more about aromatherapy treatments at Breathe Holistic therapy Kidderminster: Aromatherapy.