Allergies attributable to chamomile are uncommon, but persons with a history of allergies to the daisy family should use caution. There are more than 90 licensed preparations of chamomile available in Germany, attesting to its popularity in that country. Those receiving 100 milligrams of kava extract three times daily experienced a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms after only one week of treatment. No adverse reactions were observed. The researchers concluded that kava is beneficial for treating anxiety, tension and over-excitement.
Fragrances can have effects on psychological as well as physical functions.
In a recent study, a citrus fragrance was placed in a hospital room where 20 depressed male patients spent most of their time. As a result of exposure to the citrus fragrance, the intake of antidepressant medication was reduced for all the patients, and by the end of the trial, nine of the twelve patients in the test group no longer needed medication. All patients in the control group required their usual doses of antidepressants during the trial.