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.