BACKGROUND:
Essential oils (EOs) have been considered as a potential alternative therapy for wound healing and scar reduction.
OBJECTIVE:
To provide a comprehensive review examining the effects of EOs on wound healing and scars.
DATA SOURCES:
PubMed, Cochrane, Ovid and Embase computerized searches were performed through June 2020.
REVIEW METHODS:
Two independent reviewers conducted data extraction reviewed by the senior author following the PRISMA protocol.
RESULTS:
Three manuscripts examining three different EO-containing topical agents were analyzed. Outcomes include: healing rate, erythema, pain, pruritus, patient discomfort, physician satisfaction, percent wound reduction, wound/scar surface perimeter area, and qualitative dermatological evaluation. All articles concluded that the EO-containing topical agents resulted in either superior or non-inferior outcomes in comparison to controls. Hypericum-Calendula oil obtained lower wound surface perimeter area. Erythema (p=.001) was significantly decreased by the peppermint EO-containing topical agent preparation. Physicians also reported greater satisfaction (p<.001) in wound appearance with use of the peppermint EO-containing topical agent.
<b><u>CONCLUSION:</u></b> A paucity of studies have examined EO use for wound healing and scar reduction. Treatment with EO-containing topical agents resulted in decreased erythema with increased physician satisfaction of wound appearance. Future studies should assess what level of purity is needed for improved results, and which EO, or combination of EOs is most beneficial.