The impact of aromatherapy on glossophobia among medical students: A study on cortisol levels and stress reduction

Glossophobia (fear of public speaking, presentation anxiety) is an anxiety disorder characterized by extreme fear and anxiety about public speaking. Glossophobia is a very common phobia worldwide, reportedly affecting 75% of the population. This study aims to examine the effects of different aroma inhalations (Thyme and Juniper) on public speaking anxiety, and salivary cortisol hormone levels in university students. The sample of the research consisted of a total of 104 university students, male and female, between the ages of 18-20. In the first step, cortisol hormone levels were determined using the ELISA technique in the saliva samples taken from the university students included in the study. The average salivary cortisol hormone level and public speaking anxiety levels of the university students participating in the study showed a positive and statistically significant relationship (p=0.001). There is a significant negative correlation between the participants' public speaking anxiety and post-thyme oil status at a 99% confidence level and a 1% significance level, r=-.318. When public speaking anxiety and juniper oil were analyzed, a significant negative relationship was found at r=-.290, a 99% confidence level, and a 1% significance level. It was also concluded that inhalation of 2% thyme essential oil in individuals with high glossophobia is both safe and beneficial in reducing anxiety levels.