Essential Oil Inhalation and Acute Stress Response in Healthy Adults (NCT07473544) | Clinical Trial Compass
Active — Not RecruitingNot Applicable
Essential Oil Inhalation and Acute Stress Response in Healthy Adults
United States200 participantsStarted 2026-03-10
Plain-language summary
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluates the acute physiological and subjective responses to essential oil inhalation in healthy adults. Participants are assigned to inhale either an essential oil or a placebo via an aroma stick during standardized laboratory procedures designed to induce temporary psychosocial stress (Trier Social Stress Test - Group version) and during a guided relaxation session.
Physiological responses, including heart rate, heart rate variability, and electrodermal activity, are measured using a wearable sensor. Subjective stress and affect are assessed using validated questionnaires and visual analog scales. The purpose of this study is to characterize short-term autonomic and self-reported responses associated with essential oil inhalation under controlled experimental conditions. This study is exploratory and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any medical condition.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 45 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
Age 18-45 years, inclusive
Able to read, write, and understand English
Willing and able to provide informed consent
Willing to attend two in-person study visits
Generally healthy, as determined by medical history and screening review
Exclusion Criteria:
Known asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), significant lung disease, heart disease, or other medical condition that may compromise safety or data integrity
Pregnancy or pregnancy within the past 90 days
Known allergy or sensitivity to essential oils or study placebo materials
Current smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, or use of recreational drugs
Regular use of essential oils applicable to the study phase (\>3 times per week for ≥2 weeks within the past month) without a minimum 1-month washout
Unwillingness to abstain from alcohol for at least 72 hours prior to each study visit
Failure to meet inclusion criteria
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Change in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) Stress Area Under the Curve (AUC)
Timeframe: Baseline through 30 minutes post-stressor recovery (Study Visit 1)