Application of clinical aromatherapy in the treatment of vaginal infections

Abstract

Application of natural essential oils of diverse therpeutical effects constitutes clinical aromatherapy. Among well-established biological and pharmacological activities of essential oils, their beneficial antibacterial and antifungal effects are reported from in vivo and in vitro studies on vaginal microbiome. At present, however, there is lack of reports on relation among microorganisms in vaginal smear, tested essential oils and physical and emotional health of female proband. Objective of the study was: (1) the influence analysis of applied aromatherapueitcal preparations on quantita-
tive and qualitative profile of pathogenic vaginal microbiome and (2) the analysis of physical state and psychological well-being of proband woman. While gynaecological examination exhibited symptoms of bacterial and/or fungal infection of vulva and vagina, vaginal swab test taken from posterior vaginal fornix was used for microbiological examinations Within framework of performed aromatograms, identified facultative microorganisms of E. coli-var. and Candida sp. were subjected
to essential oils. Obtained results aided preparation of aromatherapeutic formulations of different applications: both topical (vaginal mucosa and cervical canal) and vaginal treatments. Final examinations certified effective antibacterial and antifungal influence of aromatherapeutic formulations, therein dedicated natural essential oils on imbalance of vaginal microbiome and on significant reduction of discomfort as well as psychical condition of proband woman.