APPLICATION OF LAVENDER AROMATHERAPY FOR PSYCHOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS IN A POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMAN: A CASE REPORT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62354/jurnalmedicare.v5i4.577Abstract
Background: Menopause may be accompanied by psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depressive symptoms, stress, mood changes, and sleep disturbance. Lavender aromatherapy is used as a complementary, non-pharmacological approach that may promote relaxation.
Objective: To describe the application of lavender aromatherapy and the changes in self-reported psychological symptoms in a postmenopausal woman. This descriptive case report concerns a 61-year-old woman who had been postmenopausal for five years and reported worsening psychological and sleep-related complaints over six months. Depression, anxiety, and stress were assessed before and after a seven-day period of lavender room-fragrance use using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21).
Results: DASS-21 scores decreased from 12 to 8 for depression, 14 to 6 for anxiety, and 18 to 12 for stress. The patient also reported feeling more relaxed, less anxious, emotionally more stable, and sleeping better. No adverse effects were reported during the intervention period.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that lavender aromatherapy may contribute to short-term improvements in the patient's self-reported psychological symptoms. This case highlights its potential as a complementary approach to supporting psychological well-being during the observation period. Further controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings and evaluate its effectiveness.
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Keywords:
aromatherapy, case report, lavender, menopause, psychological symptomsReferences
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