DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF ESSENTIAL OIL-BASED NASAL INHALER FOR SLEEP WELLNESS

M. Kiranmai, K. Premitha Nayani, G. Gopi Krishna, P. Nazma, P. Reshma, A Sindhuja, P. Siva Krisha, P. Srinivasa Babu, N. Santhi Priya*

ABSTRACT

Sleep disorders have become a major health concern due to stress, anxiety, sedentary lifestyles, and prolonged screen exposure. Although conventional hypnotic drugs effectively manage insomnia, their long-term use is associated with adverse effects such as tolerance, dependence, cognitive impairment, and withdrawal symptoms. Consequently, there is growing interest in safer, natural alternatives. Aromatherapy, which uses volatile essential oils through inhalation, promotes relaxation and may improve sleep by stimulating the olfactory system and limbic region of the brain. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate a herbal nasal inhaler containing lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and mace (Myristica fragrans) essential oils for relaxation and sleep wellness. Virgin coconut oil and olive oil were used as carrier oils to enhance stability and minimize the evaporation of volatile components. Two formulations with different essential oil ratios were prepared using the absorption impregnation technique by saturating sterile cotton wicks and assembling them into portable nasal inhalers. The formulations were evaluated for organoleptic properties, Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC), leakage resistance, aroma retention, and short-term stability. Both inhalers exhibited a pleasant floral-spicy aroma, clear appearance, and uniform wick saturation. TLC confirmed the presence of characteristic phytoconstituents, verifying the authenticity of the essential oils. The inhalers remained leak-proof under different storage conditions, retained their fragrance throughout the 30-day study, and showed no phase separation or changes in appearance or odour. Overall, the herbal nasal inhaler demonstrated satisfactory quality, stability, and packaging integrity, indicating its potential as a convenient, economical, and natural aromatherapy product for promoting relaxation and supporting healthy sleep.

Keywords: Aromatherapy, Essential oils, Lavender oil, Mace oil, Nasal inhaler, Sleep wellness, Thin Layer Chromatography.