Lavender, Peppermint, Neroli, and Eucalyptus in the Modulation of Pain and Anxiety: A Critical Review of Aromatherapeutic Approaches
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62435/2965-7253.bjhae.2025.bjhae24Keywords:
Aromatherapy, Essential Oils, Lavender, Peppermint, Neroli, Eucalyptus, Pain Management, Anxiety, Critical Review, Neuropathic PainAbstract
Aromatherapy, utilizing essential oils (EOs) obtained from plant parts, is a modality investigated for managing complex symptoms like pain and anxiety. This review critically synthesizes clinical and preclinical evidence focusing on Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Peppermint (Mentha × piperita), Neroli (Citrus aurantium), and Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus). Systematic reviews demonstrate that aromatherapy significantly reduces pain, particularly in acute settings. Meta-analyses show beneficial effects of EOs on pain intensity in Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs), with the most favorable outcomes observed immediately after application. Lavender is widely studied, demonstrating efficacy in alleviating surgical pain, reducing opioid requirements post-surgery, and lowering anxiety preoperatively. Neroli, often combined with Lavender, effectively decreases anxiety, heart rate, blood pressure, and pain during stressful procedures like dental anesthesia in children. Peppermint is frequently utilized, appearing in blends for migraine management and post-operative symptom control. However, efficacy, especially for
chronic conditions like fibromyalgia or cancer pain, is limited by methodological heterogeneity and the predominant use of unidimensional pain scales (e.g., VAS/NRS) rather than appropriate multidimensional tools (e.g., BPI). Further high-quality Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) are required for standardization.
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