Effects of Stress-reducing Aromatherapy

Physiologic and Expectancy Effects of Stress-reducing Aroma in Older Adults

The study purpose is to evaluate efficacy of stress-reducing aromatherapy and learn about how aromatherapy works.

The study purpose is to evaluate efficacy of stress-reducing aromatherapy and learn about how aromatherapy works by comparing participants' physiologic responses to laboratory challenge tasks with and without experiencing aromatherapy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• in good physical and cognitive health
• reporting moderate level of stress
• able to perceive aromas
• able to understand and follow study instructions

Exclusion Criteria:

• taking medications affecting central nervous system (CNS) function or physiologic measures (e.g. steroids or neuroleptics)
• reporting smell sensitivities or allergies
• smoking presently or in the past less than one year prior to enrollment