Lavender helps to recover faster after surgery

The patients were divided into two groups: one group was given patches with 10% lavender oil overnight for seven days after surgery, the other group did not receive aromatherapy. 60 compounds have been identified in the oil, including linalool and linalyl acetate, substances known for their soothing and hypnotic effects.

The results showed that on the fourth day, patients from the aromatherapy group slept longer and deeper, fell asleep faster, woke up less often, and had fewer episodes of sleep apnea. They also had a shorter duration of delirium, a state of confusion and impaired perception that often occurs after surgery. By the seventh day, the level of anxiety decreased, especially in women.

Researchers believe that the effect of lavender accumulates with repeated sessions, and its active ingredients can affect the nervous system through aromatic pathways, regulating sleep and cognitive functions. No side effects have been recorded, but scientists note the need for larger and longer-term studies to confirm the safety and effectiveness of the method.

Such a simple and safe approach can complement traditional rehabilitation, improving the quality of recovery and the psychological state of patients after neurosurgery.