The Effect of Lavender Inhalation on Sleep Quality in Individuals with Coronary Heart Disease: A Randomized Controlled Study

Objective: Sleep disorders frequently manifest in individuals with coronary heart disease (CHD). Evaluating sleep quality in these patients is crucial for devising effective healthcare interventions. This study aimed to assess the impact of long-term *home-based* lavender inhalation on sleep quality among individuals diagnosed with CHD. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial involving two groups was conducted in the cardiology clinics of a university hospital in 2023. Sixty-four patients (32 in the experimental group and 32 in the control group) were enrolled. Data collection utilized the Personal Information Form and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The experimental group received lavender oil inhalation for one month. The PSQI was administered to both groups at the study's commencement and conclusion (pre-test and post-test, respectively). Results: A statistically significant difference was observed between the pretest and posttest PSQI scores in the experimental group (p=0.000). Furthermore, the posttest PSQI mean scores of the experimental group were found to be significantly lower than those of the control group (p=0.004). Conclusions: Lavender inhalation demonstrated an enhancement in sleep quality among patients with CHD. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first randomized controlled study to evaluate sleep quality in CHD patients through a one-month lavender inhalation program conducted entirely at home. These findings contribute to the literature and are recommended for health practices. However, considering limitations such as its single-center design, it is important that the findings are supported by studies in broader populations and over longer durations.