Using Blended Aromatherapy for Anxiety and Stress Management in Patients Receiving Oncology Care

Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2025 Sep 17;29(5):E133-E138. doi: 10.1188/25.CJON.E133-E138.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Aromatherapy has been a well-documented, safe, complementary clinical intervention for various health conditions in and out of the hospital setting.

OBJECTIVES: This evidence-based quality improvement project evaluated the effect of blended essential oils (lavender, orange, and peppermint) on stress and anxiety in hospitalized patients with cancer.

METHODS: Participants (N = 30) on the inpatient oncology unit received nightly blended essential oil aromatherapy as a complementary intervention. A modified version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales 21-Item tool was used pre- and postintervention to assess changes in participants’ anxiety and stress levels.

FINDINGS: Nightly aromatherapy produced a statistically significant decrease in anxiety (p < 0.001) and stress (p < 0.001). Supportive aromatherapy is a holistic, nurse-driven intervention that may help reduce anxiety and stress in hospitalized patients receiving oncology care.

PMID:40986764 | DOI:10.1188/25.CJON.E133-E138