Essential Oil for Diabetic Neuropathy Pain

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic Neuropathy is nerve damage due to metabolic disorders associated with DM. 30-50% of DN patients experience pain, most often spontaneous burning pain in the feet. DN pain is a condition of concern, having a negative impact on quality of life, morbidity, and mortality.

Objective: To further analyze the efficacy and safety of Effleurage Massage with herbal Essential Oil to reduce peripheral limb pain in DPN patients.

Methodology: A randomized three-group controlled trial with a pre-post design was conducted on 30 diabetic neuropathy patients. The patients were randomly allocated into the herbal Essential Oil group (n = 10), reflexology massage group (n = 10), and hydrotherapy group (n = 10). Patients in the intervention group used 2.5 cc of 3% herbal oil on their feet as a gentle massage for 10 minutes every night before bed for a month. Data collection was done using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4).

Findings: This study showed that foot health in diabetic patients with neuropathy who received Effleurage Massage with herbal Essential Oil had fewer pain complaints compared to foot exercises and massage without herbal Essential Oil.