Effects of Aromatherapy After Aerobic Exercise"

Aromatherapy has gained popularity as a complementary approach in sports science, with claims of improving relaxation, reducing fatigue, and enhancing recovery. Lavender essential oil, in particular, has been associated with cardiovascular modulation and reduced perception of exertion. However, its efficacy in post-exercise recovery among athletes remains under-investigated.

This randomized controlled trial will evaluate the physiological and perceptual effects of lavender aromatherapy in athletes following aerobic exertion. Participants aged 15-35 with at least 6 months of regular sports participation will be included. The intervention group will receive inhalation-based lavender oil aromatherapy for 5 minutes after completing the Bruce treadmill protocol, while the control group will rest without aromatherapy.

Primary and secondary outcomes include heart rate recovery, blood pressure, oxygen saturation (SpO₂), Borg RPE score, and fatigue severity. Data will be collected at baseline, immediately after exercise, and at 5-minute intervals during recovery. The findings are expected to provide insights into the use of non-pharmacological recovery strategies in athletic populations.

Inclusion criteria

Aged between 12 and 14 years

Actively engaged in organized sports training (minimum 2 times per week)

Medically cleared to participate in moderate to vigorous physical activity

No known cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, or metabolic conditions

Provided informed assent and obtained written parental/guardian consent

Exclusion criteria

Known allergy to lavender or any component of aromatherapy oils

Use of medications that may alter cardiovascular responses (e.g., beta-blockers)

History of cardiac disease, hypertension, or arrhythmia

Acute or recent musculoskeletal injury (within the last 3 months)

Acute upper respiratory tract infection during the assessment week

Inability to complete treadmill exercise testing or follow instructions