Effect of Salvia officinalis scent on postmenopausal women’s sexual function and satisfaction: a randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION: Sexual function is one of the important aspects of quality of life which is often impaired after menopause. Given the side effects of hormone therapy on postmenopausal women, alternative treatments such as aromatherapy have won popularity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of aromatherapy using Salvia officinalis on the sexual function and satisfaction of postmenopausal women. METHODS: This was a double-blind randomized controlled trial conducted on postmenopausal women referring to health centers in Kermanshah, Iran, in 2018. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: Salvia officinalis (n = 32) and control (n = 32). Women in the intervention group received 2 drops of Salvia officinalis essential oil by inhalation twice a day for 5 consecutive days of a week continued for 6 weeks. The control group received almond oil in the same dosage and frequency. Sexual function and satisfaction were evaluated using the Lindberg sexual satisfaction questionnaire and the female sexual function index, respectively before the intervention and 6 weeks after it. RESULTS: After 6 weeks of intervention, the total mean scores of sexual function (28.8 ± 2.13 vs.17.9 ± 1.59 P < 0.001) and sexual satisfaction (71.53 ± 5.86 vs. 50.44 ± 10.41) were significantly higher in the Salvia officinalis group compared with the control group, respectively. CONCLUSION: The findings showed that aromatherapy using Salvia officinalis has a significant effect on improving sexual function and satisfaction in postmenopausal women. Therefore, given the prevalence of sexual disorders in postmenopausal women, aromatherapy using Salvia officinalis is recommended to be used for improving these disorders. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials; https://en.irct.ir/user/trial/50212/view (IRCT20160427027633N6), registered (12/08/2020).