Analysis of Essential Oils Utilization in Enhancing Immune Systems in the Pandemic Era

In December 2019, a new virus strain of coronavirus-SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) has been reported. One prevention that can be done is to increase immune systems by using essential oils. This study aims to analyze the essential oils used during a pandemic. A Qualitative descriptive method with a random sampling technique was used in this study. The questionnaire was distributed through social media with a sample size of 261 people in the West Nusa Tenggara region. Data on the percentage of use of essential oils such as eucalyptus oil 82.6%;lemon oil 14.8%;lemongrass oil 13.9%;lavender oil 9.6%. 72.2% answered that the technique for using this oil is by rubbing and 5.76% by inhaling the oil. The expected benefits by users are to be healthy 58.9%;fresh 23.2%, and 11.6% answered to avoid COVID-19. Meanwhile, there were 96.85% respondents used the oils before the pandemic, and 5.3% used the oils since March to April. 50.4% respondents attained the information from social media and 49.6% from friends/family. The data shows the awareness to improve health and immunity through the use of essential oils and it is advisable to give more attention to social media aspects in using medicinal plants containing essential oils.