Abstract
Anxiety Disorder is characterized by emotional distress in the face of prospective situations, with Brazil having the highest prevalence, affecting 9.3% of the population. In this context, anxiety triggers psychosomatic symptoms and affects the immune system, contributing to various clinical conditions. Conventional pharmacological treatment presents side effects and physical and psychological complications, potentially leading to dependence on psychoactive substances. In this context, essential oils emerge as an alternative treatment, with aromatherapy being a therapeutic modality in Complementary Medicine. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the potential benefits of essential oils as anxiolytic agents, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the academic community. The literature review was conducted based on research already elaborated through the following databases: Google Scholar; Virtual Health Library (VHL), National Library of Medicine (PubMed), and EbscoHost, involving the terms: "anxiety disorder, essential oils, anxiolytics, aromatherapy." The search was conducted in October 2023. Regarding the results, essential oils were recognized as effective therapeutic agents for neuropsychiatric disorders, including anxiety. Aromatherapy, which utilizes these oils, demonstrates beneficial effects, alleviating anxiety and promoting well-being. Their benefits include antidepressant properties, and studies indicate neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory effects. Oils such as Lavender and Citrus Aurantium prove effective in reducing cortisol, blood pressure, and heart rate, providing stress relief. Aromatherapy is endorsed by the WHO and integrated into the public health system (SUS), but further research is needed to determine the optimal dosage. Thus, essential oils have demonstrated beneficial therapeutic potential in reducing neuropsychiatric disorders and anxiety, especially Lavender and Citrus Aurantium oils. Despite positive results, additional research is needed to establish ideal inhalation doses, confirm long-term efficacy, and consolidate their position as a safe and effective therapeutic option for neuropsychiatric disorders and anxiety
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Copyright (c) 2023 Gabriella Gonçalves Caixeta, Vanessa Pereira Tolentino , Natália de Fátima Gonçalves Amâncio , Juliana Lilis da Silva