A Breath of Fresh Air: Arterial Blood Oxygen Saturation is Significantly Increased Upon the Use of an Essential Oil Inhaler (AromaStick®). Results from a Prospective, Controlled, Experimental Study Involving Healthy Individuals

摘要

Background: A number of recent studies have shown that a specifically designed odorinhaler containing various scent compositions has the ability to decrease blood pressure, heart rate,and cortisol levels. Similar results were found for the reduction of chronic pain or the enhancement ofselective attention and concentration.Objective: This paper follows up on these findings and investigates whether a specially designedinhaler (‘Energy') is capable of temporarily increasing blood oxygenation.Method: A prospective, controlled experimental study involving standardized breathing cycles wasrun to compare normal, deep breathing with breathing through an odor inhaler.Results: The difference in blood oxygenation between normal breathing and odor inhalation was verylarge (d = 2). It lasted three times longer than that of normal breathing. The effect was shown in allindividuals and did not abate after repeated use.Conclusion: Blood oxygenation can be increased over and above the effect of deep breathing whenusing this odor inhaler.