Use of Aromatherapy in Conjunction With Physical/Occupational Therapy in an Acute Care Setting

The study intervention consists of 3 essential oils: lavender, mandarin and peppermint administered on an inhalation patch affixed in the chest region of the participant gown. The inhalation patch consists of hydrogel cast onto polyester film, supported by non-woven polyester fabric, covered with a polyethylene film. The proprietary foil-backed lamination on the patch is used to provide an occlusive barrier that prevents any essential oil from being absorbed through the skin. The placebo will consist of a comparable sized felt patch with adhesive backing with no essential oil applied.

Inclusion criteria

• Inpatients of acute care setting at University Health hospital
• Provision of a signed and dated informed consent form
• English or Spanish speaking
• Male or Female, aged 18 years and older
• Willing to comply with all study procedures

Exclusion criteria

• Respiratory disorders, e.g., asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, pleural effusion
• Cognitive impairment
• Unable to communicate
• Admitted to the closed access unit or to psychiatry
• Allergic to lavender, mandarin or peppermint oil
• Diseases that cause olfactory disorders such as: COVID-19, benign growths or polyps, congestion from a cold, sinus infection or allergy flare-up
• Drugs that may cause loss of the ability to smell e.g., intranasal zinc products, decongestant nose sprays and certain oral drugs such as nifedipine and phenothiazines
• Pregnant women (self-reported)
• Prisoner