Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of aromatherapy in reducing neuropathic pain and improving the quality of life in affected patients.
Design: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions.
Methods: Four eligible studies were selected, comprising a total of 160 patients with neuropathic pain. The intervention group received aromatherapy, while the control group received standard care. Standardized mean differences (SMD) were calculated to assess the effectiveness of the intervention.
Results: The aromatherapy group showed a significant reduction in pain scores, with an SMD of -1.69 (95% confidence interval: -2.04 to -1.34). In addition to pain relief, aromatherapy was also effective in alleviating associated symptoms such as fatigue and numbness.
Conclusion: Aromatherapy is an effective non-pharmacological intervention for reducing neuropathic pain and its associated symptoms, as well as improving the quality of life. It should be considered as a complementary treatment for patients with neuropathic pain.
