Essential oils to reduce nausea during cancer treatment infusions

Plain-English translation of NCT07126301 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated August 2026 · Translation generated September 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing whether aromatherapy essential oils—specifically peppermint, lavender, or ginger—can help reduce nausea and anxiety in people receiving outpatient chemotherapy infusions. You would inhale one type of essential oil (or a placebo) using a small personal inhalation device during your infusion appointments and for a few days afterward. The study wants to learn if this simple, natural approach works and if patients find it helpful.

Many people receiving chemotherapy experience significant nausea and anxiety during treatment, and current medications don't work for everyone. This trial explores whether aromatherapy could be a safe, affordable, and easy way to complement standard nausea and anxiety treatments during cancer care.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are 18 years of age or older
you have been receiving moderate- to high-risk chemotherapy for at least one cycle and have at least two more infusion appointments scheduled
you experienced nausea rated 3 or higher (on a scale of 0–10) during your last chemotherapy infusion
you can read and understand English and are willing to follow the study plan
you do not have an allergy or sensitivity to lavender, peppermint, ginger, or jojoba oils

You likely don't qualify if…

you have uncontrolled asthma, COPD, or other serious breathing conditions
you have had recent sinus infections, long COVID, or other conditions that affect your sense of smell
you have used aromatherapy products in the past 30 days
you have an active, uncontrolled psychiatric condition or mood disorder that could interfere with the study
you have a condition affecting your ability to follow directions, such as a stroke or brain metastasis

What participation looks like

If you join this study, you will be randomly assigned to inhale one of four oils (peppermint, lavender, ginger, or a placebo) using a small personal device during your chemotherapy infusion appointment. You will continue inhaling your assigned oil at least three times daily for four days after your infusion. You will do this during at least two of your chemotherapy appointments, and the research team will ask you questions about your nausea, anxiety, and satisfaction with the experience. You'll have a follow-up check-in about 25 days after your last study infusion.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Sep 2, 2026 · Not medical advice

Essential oils to reduce nausea during cancer treatment infusions

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(2 sites)