Evaluation of efficacy of Elaeagnus angustifolia flower essential oil inhalation in improving sexual function in women of reproductive age: A randomized, controlled clinical trial

Abstract Background: Normal sexual function is an important part of women's sexual and mental health. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of inhalation of Elaeagnus angustifolia essential oil on sexual Function of women of reproductive age. Materials and Methods: This study is a randomized, three-group clinical trial that was performed on 99 women referred to health centers in Mashhad. The first group used the essential oil by inhalation for 20 minutes three times a day for 4 weeks and the second group used the essential oil by inhalation 20 minutes before intercourse and the third group did not receive any intervention. Sexual function were assessed by FSFI questionnaire at baseline and after 4 weeks in all three groups. Results:The mean and SD age of women were 33.7±7.6. The mean score of sexual function before the intervention in the first and second intervention group and control group were 23±1.3, 23.3±6.4 and 23.1±3.6 (P=0.630) respectively that was not statistically significant(p=0.630). The mean score of sexual function after 4 weeks in the first and second intervention group and control group were 25.2±7.9, 28.2±4.9 and 23.1±3.5 (P<0.001) respectively. Also after 4 weeks in the second intervention group improved sexual function in all areas, but in the first intervention Group improved all areas except pain and sexual Satisfaction (P<0.001). Trial registration: The research project was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) with a code (IRCT20191203045589N1) and the ethics committee of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences with a code (IR.MUMS.NURSE.REC.1398.07) and first registration in 11/12/2019. Conclusion: Inhalation of Elaeagnus angustifolia oil, has had a beneficial effect on improving sexual function in women of reproductive age, so it can be used as an affordable herbal supplement to improve Sexual function in these women.