Abstract
Objective: It has been reported that essential oils used in aromatherapy effect the nervous, immune and endocrine systems. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of essential oils on the cardiovascular system in healthy human subjects.
Methods: Rosemary essential oil, which reportedly has a vasopressor-like effect, and lavender essential oil which reportedly has a depressor-like effect, were administered to sixty subjects divided into rosemary, lavender, or control groups. Blood pressure and heart rate were measured after two-minutes of smelling. Data were compared among the three groups.
Result: Heart rate increased in the rosemary group. In addition to blood pressure and heart rate increased in subjects who expressed a negative impression from smelling a specific essential oils.
Conclusion: The results suggest that fragrance preference affects the therapeutic effects of aromatherapy.
