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Essential Oil Inhalation and Acute Stress Response in Healthy Adults
Sponsor: dōTERRA International
Summary
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluates the acute physiological and subjective responses to essential oil inhalation in healthy adults. Participants are assigned to inhale either an essential oil or a placebo via an aroma stick during standardized laboratory procedures designed to induce temporary psychosocial stress (Trier Social Stress Test - Group version) and during a guided relaxation session. Physiological responses, including heart rate, heart rate variability, and electrodermal activity, are measured using a wearable sensor. Subjective stress and affect are assessed using validated questionnaires and visual analog scales. The purpose of this study is to characterize short-term autonomic and self-reported responses associated with essential oil inhalation under controlled experimental conditions. This study is exploratory and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any medical condition.
Official title: Evaluation of Aromatic Essential Oils in Conditions of Stress and Relaxation - A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 45 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
200
Start Date
2026-03-10
Completion Date
2027-12-31
Last Updated
2026-03-16
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
Essential Oil Inhalation
Participants inhale an essential oil or essential oil blend administered via an individual aroma stick. At prespecified time points during baseline, stress induction (Trier Social Stress Test - Group version), and recovery or guided meditation procedures, participants are instructed to take five normal breaths from the aroma stick. The intervention is delivered in a randomized, double-blind manner and is standardized across participants within each study phase.
Placebo Aroma Stick
Participants inhale a placebo comparator administered via an aroma stick identical in appearance and delivery method to the experimental intervention but without active essential oil components. The inhalation schedule and procedures are identical to those used in the experimental arm to maintain blinding.
Locations (1)
dōTERRA International
Pleasant Grove, Utah, United States