Abstract :
This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy of aromatherapy using essential oils in the treatment of postpartum depression (PPD). PPD is a common and debilitating condition that affects many women following childbirth, making the identification of effective treatments crucial. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted, including studies published in English from MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. Six RCTs, involving 694 participants, were included, examining various essential oils, such as lavender, rose otto, bergamot, and sweet orange, compared to placebo. Depression severity was assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). The results indicated a significant reduction in depression symptoms in the aromatherapy group compared to the placebo group (Mean Difference: -2.59, 95% CI -3.70 to -1.48, p=0.01). Subgroup analysis revealed that all essential oils—lavender, bergamot, sweet orange, and the combination of rose otto and lavender—effectively reduced depressive symptoms, with the rose otto and lavender combination showing the greatest effect (Mean Difference: -4.77, 95% CI -7.99 to -1.55). The heterogeneity between studies was low (I² < 75%). These findings suggest that aromatherapy using essential oils can be a valuable intervention in reducing postpartum depression symptoms. The combination of rose otto and lavender oil appears particularly effective, offering the potential for future therapeutic use in managing PPD.