Research Reports and Program Examples

This resource page highlights VA-sponsored aromatherapy evidence reviews, published research, and publicly available examples of aromatherapy programs within Veterans Health Administration settings.

Reports

Freeman M, Ayers CK, Peterson C, Kansagara D. Aromatherapy and Essential Oils: A Map of the Evidence. Washington, DC: Evidence Synthesis Program, Health Services Research and Development Service, Office of Research and Development, Department of Veterans Affairs; 2019. VA ESP Project #05-225. VIEW FULL REPORT

VA Health Services Research & Development. Aromatherapy and Essential Oils: A Map of the Evidence. Management Brief No. 167. February 2020.

Allen J, Shekelle PG, Booth M. Aromatherapy to Reduce Stress in Nurses: A Pilot Study. Journal of Holistic Nursing. Published online July 15, 2026. doi:10.1177/08980101261467532. The study was conducted with nurses across 11 Greater Los Angeles VA clinical sites using personal aromatherapy inhalers.  VIEW FULL REPORT

Program Examples

Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital. Aromatherapy. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Updated March 27, 2026. The page states that personal aromatherapy patches are available and directs Veterans to speak with nursing staff.

Another VA program implementation example is Nebraska-Western Iowa VA, which specifically describes aromatherapy delivered through inhalers, sticks, tabs, and clothing patches.