Aromatherapy and a wearable TENS device for chronic nausea in adults
Official title: AROMA-NT: Assessment of the Mechanisms of Action of Inhaled Essential Oils and Wearable TENS Unit Device on Nausea
Run by Ohio State University · NCT07720336 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests two inhaled essential oil products and a wearable TENS device to see how they relate to nausea and anxiety in adults with long-standing symptoms.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 250 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Ohio State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Columbus, Ohio) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 17, 2024 |
| Main results expected | May 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | July 22, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07720336 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18 years or older with chronic nausea for more than 6 months and at least moderate anxiety (GAD-7 ≥ 10).
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with recent cancer treatment, significant liver disease, dialysis dependence, recent gastrointestinal surgery, recent stroke, pregnancy, or skin conditions near the ReliefBand site may not experience benefit or may be excluded for safety reasons.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This prospective study explores whether inhaled essential oils (QueaseEASE and STILL) and a wearable TENS device (ReliefBand) are linked to changes in chronic nausea and related factors such as anxiety, sleep, pain, and autonomic symptoms. Participants first undergo a 2-week baseline assessment, then use the essential oils for 12 weeks and complete symptom surveys. Afterward, they use the ReliefBand device for another 12 weeks with ongoing questionnaires to identify potential pathways influencing chronic nausea. The study focuses on mechanisms and associations rather than treatment efficacy, comparing each intervention period to baseline. Eligible adults are those with chronic nausea and at least moderate anxiety, with several exclusion criteria to ensure safety and interpretability.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If the interventions are associated with favorable changes, they could inform non-prescription strategies to manage chronic nausea and anxiety.
How similar studies have gone: Prior uses of aromatherapy and wearable TENS for nausea exist, but this study emphasizes mechanistic associations rather than efficacy.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Age 18 years or older. Chronic nausea for more than 6 months. Nausea on 3 or more days during the previous week. Severe or very severe nausea. At least moderate anxiety as defined by a Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) score of 10 or greater. Able to read and understand English. Willing and able to complete study procedures and questionnaires Exclusion Criteria: Currently receiving treatment for cancer. Decompensated cirrhosis, including cirrhosis with ascites, variceal bleeding, or hepatic encephalopathy. Currently receiving dialysis. Gastrointestinal surgery within the previous 3 months. Stroke within the previous 3 months. Currently pregnant (self-reported). Symptoms consistent with carpal tunnel syndrome based on the Kamath-Stothard questionnaire. Inflammation, irritation, infection, or other significant skin disease near the wrist at the intended site of ReliefBand application. Latex allergy, due to natural rubber latex contained in the ReliefBand wrist strap
Where it's running
-
Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Columbus, Ohio, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Subhankar CHAKRABORTY, MD, Ph.D. — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: SUBHANKAR CHAKRABORTY, M.D., Ph.D.
- Email: Subhankar.chakraborty@osumc.edu
- Phone: 614-293-6255'
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.