The Effect of Valerian Essential Oil Compared to a Control Group on Sleep Disturbances Resulting from Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of valerian essential oil compared to a control group on sleep disturbances resulting from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in patients referred to Salamatkade Rahe Sabze Salamat Clinic in the city of Tehran. Method: A clinical trial utilizing a pre-test post-test design with follow-up was conducted on 60 participants divided into valerian essential oil and control groups. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire assessed sleep disturbances before and after the intervention and during follow-up. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 software. Results: The results indicated a significant reduction in the mean score of sleep disturbances resulting from GAD (P<0.05, F = 4.407) in the valerian essential oil group during the post-test and follow-up compared to the pre-test in both the experimental and control groups. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, valerian essential oil may improve sleep disturbances resulting from GAD.