Exploitation of aromatherapy in dementia-impact on pain and neuropsychiatric symptoms

Summary points • Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common causes of dementia. • Mitochondrial derangement may be involved in the pathogenesis. • A definite disease-modifying therapy is not available. • Nearly the whole population of patients develops neuropsychiatric symptoms. • Atypical neuroleptics are not safe and effective for the long term. • Essential oils have proven efficacy against neuropsychiatric symptoms. • Agitation is linked to unrelieved pain. • BEO has antinociceptive properties. • Aromatherapy with bergamot can be a novel strategy for neuropsychiatric symptoms management.