The effect of aromatherapy on pain in individuals with diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This study systematically analyzed the impact of aromatherapy on pain in individuals with diabetes. Methods: A search was performed in seven electronic databases based on the PICO-SD (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, Study Design) framework. The population (P) of interest was individuals with diabetes, and the intervention (I) included aromatherapy targeting pain reduction. The comparison (C) consisted of control groups that received no intervention, another intervention, or usual care. The outcome (O) measured was pain. The quality of the selected literature was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. In MIX 2.0 Pro, the pooled overall effect of pain was calculated using Hedge’s g and a random-effects model, and heterogeneity was calculated using the Q statistic and Higgin’s I2 values. Meta-regression and exclusion sensitivity analyses were performed. Results: Five articles and seven studies were included, showing a significant pooled overall effect of aromatherapy on diabetes-related pain (Hedge’s g = −1.83, 95% CI: −2.76 to −0.91). Meta-regression demonstrated that effectiveness in reducing pain was associated with studies conducted in West Asia, those with IRB approval, and those receiving funding. Additionally, interventions involving subjects under 60, lavender oil (vs. turpentine oil or blended oils), massage therapy (vs. topical application), fewer hours per session, and more repeated measurements (vs. pre/post measurements) were associated with pain reduction. Conclusion: Aromatherapy, especially with lavender oil, effectively manages diabetes-related pain. Short-duration massage application is also effective. A personalized selection of oil type and application method could optimize therapeutic outcomes for individuals with diabetes.