Using an aromatherapy intervention with (bergamot) essential oil in adults in treatment for substance use disorder: A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES

This study had two aims. Aim one is to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of using an aroma-based, self-managed intervention for adults in outpatient treatment for substance use disorder. Aim two is to examine the effects of a (Bergamot) essential oil intervention on the variables of comfort, ease, and stress.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial was conducted (NCT05660434). Adults in treatment for substance use disorder were randomized to either control group (standard care) ( 55) or intervention group (standard care plus [Bergamot] essential oil intervention), three times a day for seven days ( 45). All data were analyzed using an intention-to-treat method. Outcomes were measured using valid and reliable measures.

RESULTS

One hundred participants were recruited over 11 months. Reasons for non or limited participation included feeling overwhelmed by the demands of treatment and everyday living. Data analysis showed psychological variable improvement with a significant increase in ease reported ( 0.022) and DASS-21 subscales for depression ( 0.007) and anxiety ( 0.013) in the intervention group. Post-satisfaction survey results were positive, with overall enjoyment, perception of the aroma, and intention to continue to use the aroma inhaler post-trial, which was high.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from this study provide data to support the feasibility and acceptability of using essential oil via inhalation to help this population. Findings from this study will inform a more extensive study designed to examine effects within and between groups using a placebo.