Effects of Lavender Oil on Predator Odor Induced Anxiety in Rats
Faculty Sponsor
Alisha Epps, aepps@whitworth.edu
Patricia Bruininks, pbruininks@whitworth.edu
Session Type
Poster Presentation
Research Project Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to explore the effects of a potential treatment for anxiety because there is a need for treatments that are easily obtainable and inexpensive. The study tested the anxiolytic effects of lavender oil on rats experiencing severe anxiety induced by predator odor. The study used eight female rats. Four control rats were exposed to diffused water, while four experimental rats were exposed to diffused lavender oil. The rats' anxiety was induced using bobcat urine and was observed behaviorally in the open-field test. The anxiety responses were measured as rearing, defecating, climbing walls, freezing, grooming and spending time near walls. Administering lavender oil did not significantly reduce anxious behavior, unlike the conclusions from previous research. Further research should explore the potential for using essential oils as treatments.
Session Number
PS2
Location
HUB Multipurpose Room
Abstract Number
PS2-w
Effects of Lavender Oil on Predator Odor Induced Anxiety in Rats
HUB Multipurpose Room
The purpose of the present study was to explore the effects of a potential treatment for anxiety because there is a need for treatments that are easily obtainable and inexpensive. The study tested the anxiolytic effects of lavender oil on rats experiencing severe anxiety induced by predator odor. The study used eight female rats. Four control rats were exposed to diffused water, while four experimental rats were exposed to diffused lavender oil. The rats' anxiety was induced using bobcat urine and was observed behaviorally in the open-field test. The anxiety responses were measured as rearing, defecating, climbing walls, freezing, grooming and spending time near walls. Administering lavender oil did not significantly reduce anxious behavior, unlike the conclusions from previous research. Further research should explore the potential for using essential oils as treatments.
