Aromatherapy Aromatherapy for Specific Conditions 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which essential oil is most widely researched and recommended for reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation?
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
- Lavender (Correct answer)
- Lemon
Correct answer: Lavender
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has the most clinical evidence supporting its use for anxiety reduction and relaxation.
Question 2: Which essential oil is classically used to support respiratory function and relieve nasal congestion?
- Rose
- Eucalyptus globulus (Correct answer)
- Ylang ylang
- Vetiver
Correct answer: Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus contains high levels of 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), a compound that opens airways and relieves congestion.
Question 3: Which essential oil blend is traditionally used in aromatherapy to relieve nausea, particularly during pregnancy (with appropriate dilution)?
- Jasmine and rose
- Ginger and spearmint (Correct answer)
- Clove and cinnamon
- Frankincense and myrrh
Correct answer: Ginger and spearmint
Ginger and spearmint are both well-supported for nausea relief, and are commonly used together for morning sickness when properly diluted.
Question 4: For supporting sleep onset and improving sleep quality, which essential oil has the strongest clinical evidence?
- Bergamot
- Lavender (Correct answer)
- Clary sage
- Roman chamomile
Correct answer: Lavender
Lavender has the most robust clinical evidence for improving sleep quality, reducing sleep latency, and increasing deep sleep stages.
Question 5: Which essential oil is most commonly recommended for topical pain relief in musculoskeletal conditions when properly diluted?
- Rose absolute
- Peppermint (Correct answer)
- Neroli
- Frankincense
Correct answer: Peppermint
Peppermint oil contains menthol which creates a cooling analgesic effect and increases blood flow to painful areas.
Question 6: Which essential oil is frequently used in hospice and palliative care settings specifically for reducing anxiety and existential distress?
- Tea tree
- Frankincense (Correct answer)
- Citronella
- Clove bud
Correct answer: Frankincense
Frankincense is widely used in palliative care for its grounding, spiritual, and anxiety-reducing properties in end-of-life settings.
Which essential oil is most widely researched and recommended for reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation?