Thank you Alliance of International Aromatherapists (AIA) for funding my study!
For more details about my study, please see
https://www.petrichorapothecary.com/post/a-quick-primer-on-eds-and-the-study-criteria
and
https://www.petrichorapothecary.com/post/recruiting-for-an-ehlers-danlos-syndrome-aromatherapy-study
Aromatherapeutics are a viable option for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome symptom management
Abstract
According to the National Institutes of Health, “pain affects more Americans than diabetes, heart disease and cancer combined”. Uncontrolled pain is debilitating, and can lead to secondary conditions such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) causes joint dislocations, can affect internal organs, and leads to significant pain. The current (inadequate) methods for relieving EDS-related pain are limited to opioid medications and management of dislocations.
Many EDS sufferers are unable to function in normal life, leading to full medical disability status. EDS sufferers are likely to experience anxiety and depression, and management of these secondary conditions is important for quality of life.
Aromatherapy may be an effective and safe method of controlling the pain and inflammation experienced by EDS sufferers. Studies showing the ability of essential oil and aromatic extracts to interact with pain-related cell receptors and nociceptors suggest that essential oils can directly reduce pain. In addition, inhalation of specific essential oils has been shown to relieve stress and anxiety. Identifying an aromatherapy protocol for EDS-related pain and anxiety will increase quality of life.