Vetiver and Orange Blossom Aid in Lowering Blood Pressure and Heart Rate and Improving Sleep Quality.

Abstract

Aromatherapy has emerged as a prominent therapeutic modality, particularly for individuals grappling with insomnia and stress. This study delves into the sleep patterns of a general population and evaluates the impact of 3 distinct essential oils over a 4 to 6-week period. The study rigorously assesses changes in sleep quality and various cardiovascular parameters before and after the utilization of these essential oils. A total of 67 participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire and expressed their willingness to partake in the experiment through an online platform. Subsequently, the participants underwent comprehensive measurements of cardiovascular and autonomic nervous system parameters. Following random assignment into 1 of 3 groups, the subjects diligently used the prescribed essential oils for the specified duration. A posttest was conducted to meticulously document the changes in cardiovascular and autonomic nervous system parameters, as well as the PSQI scale. The 3 essential oils employed were lavender, vetiver, and orange blossom, with 21, 18, and 17 participants, respectively. The experimental findings revealed a noteworthy reduction in PSQI scores after 4 to 6 weeks of using vetiver and orange blossom essential oils. The scores decreased from 7.92 (3.55) and 8.32 (3.71) to 6.08 (3.30, P = .007) and 6.47 (2.20, P = .042), respectively. This reduction was even more pronounced among subjects with initial PSQI scores of 5 or higher. Furthermore, the utilization of vetiver and orange blossom essential oils demonstrated a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (SYS) over the 4 to 6-week period. Vetiver SYS levels decreased from 108.39 (5.67) to 105.33 (5.93) (P = .0016), and orange blossom SYS levels decreased from 110.53 (9.49) to 108.18 (9.49) (P = .0414). In addition, the heart rate of the vetiver group also exhibited a significant decrease from 78.33 (12.06) to 76.00 (12.06) (P = .0342). Thus, the results strongly suggest that vetiver and orange blossom essential oils contribute to the reduction of blood pressure, heart rate, and the enhancement of sleep quality, particularly in individuals experiencing sleep disturbances. These findings align with previous research on the soothing effects of essential oils and their potential in promoting both cardiovascular and sleep-related well-being.