Natural Remedies for Fatigue and Sleep Disorders in Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and progressive condition that affects the central nervous system, characterized by inflammation, demyelination, and neuronal degeneration. With approximately 2.5 million people affected worldwide, MS predominantly occurs in women, typically manifesting between the ages of 20 and 40.
In addition to motor and sensory symptoms, patients face challenges such as fatigue, insomnia, cognitive deficits, and emotional disturbances, which significantly impact their quality of life.
Study
Among the debilitating symptoms of multiple sclerosis, insomnia, and fatigue are particularly problematic. Many patients use complementary and alternative therapies (CAT) to enhance their well-being.
Aromatherapy, which leverages the therapeutic effects of essential oils through inhalation, is one of the safest and most practical options available. In this context, lavender oil was selected due to its relaxing, anti-anxiety, and sedative properties, along with its low risk of side effects—making it an ideal candidate for alleviating sleep disturbances and reducing fatigue in individuals with MS.
Methodology
The study was designed as a randomized controlled trial conducted at a neurology clinic in Turkey, involving patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis who exhibited high levels of fatigue and sleep disturbances.
- Sample and Randomization:
Initially, 66 patients were recruited; by the end of the study, 63 had completed the protocol. Participants were divided into two groups using block randomization: an experimental group and a control group.
- Aromatherapy Intervention:
Patients in the experimental group applied lavender oil in the evening for 30 days. Specifically, 3 drops of lavender oil were placed on a cotton pad and positioned approximately 15–20 cm from the pillow, 30 minutes before bedtime.
- Outcome Assessment:
The effectiveness of the intervention was evaluated using standardized instruments such as the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), which were administered at the beginning of the study and at several follow-up points over the 4 weeks.
Results
The data revealed significant improvements in the group that received aromatherapy:
- Reduction in Fatigue:
FSS scores decreased markedly, indicating a substantial reduction in the perceived level of fatigue.
- Improvement in Sleep Quality:
PSQI scores showed significant improvement, confirming an enhancement in sleep quality among the treated patients.
- Comparison with the Control Group:
Patients who did not receive the treatment did not show any significant changes in the measured parameters.
The findings suggest that aromatherapy with lavender oil can serve as an effective complementary intervention for managing some of the challenges associated with multiple sclerosis.
Applying lavender oil 30 minutes before bedtime for 30 days significantly improved sleep quality and reduced fatigue in patients with MS. The observed benefits are likely attributable to active components in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which are known for their sedative and calming effects.
This approach is particularly appealing because it offers a non-invasive, cost-effective solution with minimal side effects, and can be easily integrated into routine nursing practices.
These results support the use of complementary methods in managing MS and underscore the importance of further research to determine the long-term effects of this therapy.
If you are interested in creating or manufacturing a product to alleviate the symptoms of multiple sclerosis:
Source: Kavuran, E; Yurttaş, A. “The Effect of Aromatherapy with Lavender Essential Oil on the Sleep and Fatigue Level of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis in Turkey: A Randomized Controlled Trial”, Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice 27(5)
