Lavender Oil Aids Recovery After Brain Surgery

A recent study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology highlights the potential benefits of lavender essential oil aromatherapy for patients recovering from brain surgery. Conducted at Sanbo Brain Hospital in China, the randomized controlled trial involved 42 patients with intracranial tumors who underwent surgery.
Patients in the intervention group received 10% lavender essential oil inhalation via nasal patches for seven consecutive nights post-surgery. Results showed significant improvements in sleep quality, particularly on the fourth postoperative day, with longer total and deep sleep durations compared to the control group. Additionally, lavender oil reduced sleep latency, sleep apnea severity, and frequency of awakenings.
The study also found that lavender oil inhalation shortened the duration of postoperative delirium, a condition marked by confusion and cognitive impairment. Anxiety levels were significantly reduced by the seventh postoperative day in the intervention group. However, no significant differences were observed in depression scores or MMSE cognitive assessments between the groups.
The therapeutic effects of lavender oil are attributed to its chemical compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which influence brain pathways linked to sleep and cognition. While the study suggests lavender oil is safe and effective for short-term postoperative use, further research is needed to explore its long-term benefits and safety.
This natural intervention offers a promising, non-pharmacological approach to enhance recovery after brain surgery, reducing reliance on medications with potential side effects.

Published: 8/12/2025