Pengaruh Aromaterapi terhadap Kecemasan dan Kadar Gula Darah Penderita Diabetes Melitus di Kota Bengkulu

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease caused by impaired insulin production or the body's inability to use insulin effectively (insulin resistance). In Bengkulu Province, DM is the leading cause of death among men (38.8%) and ranks third among women (59.9%). One of the common complications experienced by patients with DM is anxiety, which can trigger the release of stress hormones such as epinephrine and cortisol. The release of these hormones may increase blood glucose levels and worsen the patient's condition. This study aimed to examine the effect of aromatherapy on anxiety levels and blood glucose levels among patients with DM in Bengkulu City. The study involved 33 respondents selected using a simple random sampling technique. Anxiety levels and blood glucose levels were measured before and after the administration of aromatherapy for one month, given twice a week. This research employed a quasi-experimental design, using the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HRSA) to measure anxiety levels and a glucometer to measure blood glucose levels. Data analysis showed a significant relationship between aromatherapy administration and changes in anxiety levels as well as blood glucose levels (p = 0.000). In conclusion, regular aromatherapy can reduce anxiety and lower blood glucose levels in patients with DM, approaching normal values. The use of aromatherapy as a nursing intervention is recommended to help stabilize blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes mellitus.