Effect of inhaled peppermint essential oil aromatherapy on postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing laparoscopic gynecologic surgery

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the effect of inhaled peppermint essential oil (PEO) aromatherapy on postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in patients undergoing laparoscopic gynecologic surgery. METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial, 106 patients were assigned to either the PEO group or normal saline (NS) group. The PEO group received inhalational aromatherapy with 2% peppermint oil before induction, preoperatively, and immediately after extubation. The NS group received an identical intervention using 2 ml of 0.9% sodium chloride solution. RESULTS: Compared with the NS group, the PEO group had a significantly lower incidence of PONV within 24 h (52.8% vs. 73.6%; p = 0.043). The reduction was most notable during the first hour (45.3% vs. 73.6%; p = 0.047). The PEO group also demonstrated significantly improved anxiety scores at 0‐24 h and 24‐48 h, reduced pain catastrophizing, and decreased abdominal distension. CONCLUSION: Inhaled peppermint aromatherapy reduced the incidence of PONV, improved anxiety, decreased pain catastrophizing, and alleviated abdominal distension in patients undergoing laparoscopic gynecological surgery. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry. (Registration number: ChiCTR2400093289 Registration Date:2024‐12‐02).