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Effectiveness of aromatherapy using Rosa damascena oil on severity of premenstrual syndrome among Palestinian female students: randomised controlled clinical trial
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DOI：10.1016/j.hermed.2026.101087.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
Background: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) involves physical and psychological symptoms that can disrupt young women's daily functioning, particularly among university students facing academic and social pressures. Aromatherapy has gained interest as a complementary approach for PMS management, yet evidence from controlled trials remains limited. This study examined the effectiveness of Rosa damascena aromatherapy on PMS and related psychological symptoms among Palestinian female university students. Methods: A double-blind randomised controlled trial was conducted in two phases. Phase 1 used a cross-sectional survey to identify PMS prevalence and recruit participants with moderate-to-severe symptoms. In phase 2, participants were randomly assigned to inhale either Rosa damascena essential oil or an odourless placebo three times weekly for three months. Outcomes were assessed using validated self-reported tools, including the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), with adherence monitored throughout. Results: Of 300 students screened, 107 met the criteria, and 69 were enrolled. They were randomised into the intervention (n = 35) or control group (n = 34). Baseline PMS and psychological scores were similar. Over time, PMS symptoms decreased significantly in both groups (intervention: -40%; control: -20%; P = 0.001). Depression (P = 0.006), anxiety (P = 0.002), and stress (P = 0.001) scores also declined. However, no significant between-group differences were found for PMS (P = 0.185), depression (P = 0.130), and anxiety (P = 0.150), while the stress score decreased similarly in both groups (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Rosa damascena aromatherapy did not outperform placebo, although both groups showed meaningful improvement. Further studies are needed to clarify dosing and potential mechanisms.
Keywords:
Premenstrual syndrome
Aromatherapy
Rosa damascena oil
Clinical trial
University students
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