Safety of lavender oil in the treatment of perineal trauma

Jones, Catriona

Abstract

Essential oil therapy in wound care is gaining increasing popularity. This largely consumer-driven trend is currently being incorporated into the care of postnatal women experiencing perineal discomfort. Anecdotal evidence suggests that some midwives recommend the use of perineal pads pre-spotted with an essential oil blend containing lavender oil. Currently, the topical use of essential oils as a complementary therapy for perineal wound management is not underpinned by empirical evidence. A review of the existing literature on lavender oil In wound care has been conducted in an attempt to explore the safety of current practices. This review highlights that currently there remains limited evidence to support the direct topical use of pure lavender oil as an effective and safe treatment or comfort measure upon the perineum.

Citation

Jones, C. (2009). Safety of lavender oil in the treatment of perineal trauma. British Journal of Midwifery, 17(9), 567-570. https://doi.org/10.12968/bjom.2009.17.9.43888

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Feb 1, 2009
• Online Publication Date: Sep 27, 2013
• Publication Date: Sep 1, 2009
• Journal: British Journal of Midwifery
• Print ISSN: 0969-4900
• Publisher: MA Healthcare
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 17
• Issue: 9
• Pages: 567-570
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.12968/bjom.2009.17.9.43888
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/400183
• Publisher URL: https://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/abs/10.12968/bjom.2009.17.9.43888