Effects of Geranium Aromatherapy Massage on Premenstrual Syndrome: A Clinical Trial

Abstract

Introduction: This study evaluated the effects of geranium aromatherapy massage on premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Methods: A total of 120 female students with diagnosed PMS were randomly divided into three groups as control group, aromatherapy massage group, and massage group. Essential oil of geranium 2% in almond oil and sweet almond oil were used in aromatherapy massage group and massage group, respectively. Aromatherapy massage protocol was run for 8 weeks.

Results: The study revealed that aromatherapy massage decreased the PMS physical and mental symptoms and massage therapy decreased the PMS physical and mental symptoms too (P < 0.001); however, this decrease was more in aromatherapy massage group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions: This study recommends aromatherapy massage, as a complementary treatment, to improve PMS.

Keywords: Aromatherapy, geranium, massage, premenstrual syndrome