The effects of Citrus aurantium and lavender aromas on nausea and vomiting of pregnancy in nulliparous pregnant women: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Background: Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP) is common complaints in pregnant women. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the effects of Citrus aurantium (orange blossom [OB]) and lavender essential oils on the severity of NVP in nulliparous pregnant women. Methods: A single-blinded clinical trial was conducted in 165 nulliparous women with NVP. A demographic and pregnancy-related information form and the Rhodes index of nausea, vomiting, and retching (RINVR) were used to collect data. Participants were assigned into three groups of 55 to receive lavender oil, OB oil, or a placebo. The oils were inhaled by the participants for 4 days when they felt nauseous. The severity of NVP was measured at baseline and at the end of the study. Data analysis was performed using the Chi-square, paired t-test, analysis of variance, and Bonferroni post hoc test. Results: Mean RINVR scores (i.e., mean total vomiting, nausea, and retching scores) did not significantly differ in the three groups at baseline (P = 0.477). However, mean posttest RINVR scores decreased significantly in the OB and lavender aromatherapy groups (P < 0.001), whereas it did not change significantly in the placebo group (P = 0.989). Conclusion: Lavender and OB essential oils were effective in reducing NVP. Nurses and midwives may therefore recommend pregnant women to use either OB or lavender oil to alleviate their NVP.