Recruiting

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Aromatherapy for Alleviating Distress in Breast Cancer Patients Before Radiotherapy.

ASTER is a multi-part study that aims to prospectively establish evidence for the implementation of aromatherapy as complementary therapy within cancer care in the Singapore context. ASTER 2 study evaluates how extracts from Asian aromatic plants with familiar aromas introduced as inhalation therapy can alleviate distress in breast cancer patients scheduled to undergo radiotherapy (RT).

ClinicalTrials.gov IDNCT06766058

PhaseNA

Enrollment300

SponsorNational Cancer Centre, Singapore

Age21 Years – 99 Years

SexFEMALE

I'm interested View official listing

Conditions studied

Breast Cancer

About this study

Interventions

Other: Carrier oil — Inhaler stick containing 2 drops of carrier oil.
Other: Asian plant extract blend — Inhaler stick containing 2 drops of Asian plant extract blend.

Primary outcomes

The impact of Inhalation Aromatherapy Intervention on Distress. (Baseline (on CT Simulation Day), Before Intervention (on RT day), and After 20 minutes of Aromatherapy Intervention (on RT day).)
The impact of Inhalation Aromatherapy Intervention on Anxiety. (Baseline (on CT Simulation Day), After 20 minutes of Aromatherapy Intervention (on RT day).)
The impact of Inhalation Aromatherapy Intervention on Cortisol (stress hormones). (Before Intervention (on RT day), After 20 minutes of Aromatherapy Intervention (on RT day).)

Eligibility information

Inclusion Criteria: 1. Aged 21 years old and above 2. Confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer of any stage 3. Scheduled to undergo radiotherapy for the first time 4. Capable of providing informed consent Exclusion Criteria: 1. Physically or mentally incapable of providing verbal/written consent 2. Known or suspected hypersensitivity/allergy to essential oils or any components of the formulations 3. Airway hypersensitivity to fragrances, paint fumes or turpentine 4. Taking medications for anxiety (e.g. benzodiazepines) before radiotherapy 5. Pregnant, breastfeeding, or intending to conceive during study period

Study locations

National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, 168583 Singapore

Before you participate: Varda Clinical is an independent discovery tool, not the study sponsor or a medical provider. Eligibility can only be determined by the official study team. Discuss potential risks and benefits with a qualified healthcare professional.

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov. Record last refreshed by Varda Clinical: 2026-10-27.