How Aromatherapy Can Help Manage Symptoms or Side Effects of Cancer

Aromatherapy is used by patients with cancer primarily as supportive care during treatment, for stress reduction or pain management, or simply for general well-being. It’s common for people battling cancer to try different methods of complementary treatments (including massage therapy, meditation or acupuncture), in which aromatherapy oils can be utilized.

What is aromatherapy used for in cancer patients? Various aromatherapy oils are capable of lowering symptoms associated with cancer or hospice care, such as nausea, fatigue, aches or pains, depression, and insomnia. Essential oils that can help you cope with cancer symptoms, or side effects caused from cancer treatments, include frankincense, ginger, lavender, geranium, rose, neroli and clary sage.

One study published in the American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Care found that aromatherapy helped hospice patients decrease pain, anxiety and depression, and promote an increased sense of well-being. (6) The study measured the responses of 17 cancer hospice patients to humidified lavender essential oil used in 60-minute aromatherapy sessions. Following aromatherapy sessions, results reflected a positive change in blood pressure and pulse, along with reduced symptoms of pain and emotional upset.