A study on their calming effects on the nervous system.
Apart from beautifully relaxing aromatics, Bergamot and Lavender essential oil show benefits when absorbed topically through massage.
A recent clinical study
In August 2011, a study was done by Tapanee Hongratanaworakit1 on the effects of transdermal absorption of lavender and bergamot essential oil on autonomic parameters and on emotional reactions. The autonomic parameters (vital signs) studied in this experiment were: body temperature, pulse, respiratory rate and blood pressure. These parameters, regularly monitored by medical professionals, are useful in the detection or monitoring of medical problems. They also correspond to indicators of the level of arousal of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). In addition, the author assessed the emotional state and behavioral reaction of the subjects by examining the following elements: relaxation, vigor, calmness, listening, mood and vigilance.
Methodology:
40 healthy volunteers between 19 and 48 years took part in these experiments. Subjects in both the control and essential oil groups were fully informed about all aspects of the study and were free to withdraw at any time. 48 hours before testing, subjects were asked to abstain from food, beverages and toiletries containing essential oil, as well as from all stimulants (e.g., caffeine and nicotine).
A localized massage treatment was composed of 9.6% lavender essential oil, 0.4% of bergamot essential oil and 90% of sweet almond virgin plant oil. Each person in the experimental essential oil group received 1 ml of the above mixture, applied topically to the lower abdomen with self-massage for 5 minutes. The massage area was covered with plastic wrap to prevent evaporation of the essential oil. In the control group, 1 ml of a pure sweet almond placebo oil was used in the same way. Both groups were subjected to pure oxygen breathing masks in order to eliminate any olfactory stimulation through the nose or mouth. From the beginning to the end of each test, the parameters of emotional reactions were evaluated by a visual scale. The autonomous parameters were recorded continuously by suitable devices.
Findings:
Transdermal absorption of the essential oil mixture was found to decrease the level of autonomic nervous system excitation (decreases in systolic and diastolic blood pressure and pulse). Furthermore, massage with this mixture led to behavioral deactivation. Participants felt “calmer” and “more relaxed” than before essential oil administration.
Conclusions:
In conclusion, the author confirms that his investigation demonstrates the relaxing effect of this aromatic synergy. Through its action on the structures of the nervous center (hypothalamus, limbic system, thalamus) that control the levels of autonomic and/or behavioral excitation, this mixture could therefore be useful in medicine to treat depression or anxiety in humans.
1 Tapanee Hongratanaworakit. Aroma-therapeutic Effects of Massage Blended Essential Oils on Humans. Nat Prod Commun 2011 Aug;6(8): pages1199-1204. 2 C. Mercier and J. Filion. Quality of Life: Theoretical and Empirical Perspectives. Mental Health in Quebec, vol. 12, no. 1, 1987
