J Korean Acad Nurs.  2011 Feb;41(1):26-35. 10.4040/jkan.2011.41.1.26.

A Comparison between Effects of Aroma Massage and Meridian Massage on Constipation and Stress in Women College Students

• Chung M
• Choi E

• KMID: 1007006
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4040/jkan.2011.41.1.26

Abstract

PURPOSE
This study was done to compare the effects of abdominal aroma massage and meridian massage on constipation and stress in college women with functional constipation.
METHODS
The participants were 38 college women, 18 were in the aroma group and 20 in the meridian group. The aroma massage was given using aroma oil which was a mixture of lemon, lavender, rosemary, and cyprus. The meridian massage was given at 9 accupoints which influence intestinal functions. The treatment was given 5 days a week for 4 weeks. A constipation severity score, weekly defecation frequency, and a stress response score were measured before and every week of 4 weeks of the experiment.
RESULTS
While there was no significant difference between two groups, there was a significant difference within the groups in the constipation severity (aroma group: 1st week, meridian group: except 4th week), defecation frequency (aroma group: 3rd week, meridian group: 2nd and 3rd week), and stress (aroma group: all weeks, meridian group: except 4th week) after different duration of experiment.
CONCLUSION
Based on these results, both abdominal massages relieved constipation and stress. Resorting to either types of massage will contribute to the reduction of use of stool softeners, suppositories, or enemas.

Keyword

Aromatherapy; Meridians; Massage; Constipation; Stress

MeSH Terms

Abdomen
*Acupressure
Acupuncture Points
Adult
*Aromatherapy
Constipation/nursing/*therapy
Female
Humans
*Massage
Questionnaires
Stress, Psychological/nursing/*therapy
Students/*psychology
Young Adult