Oral essential oil therapy for managing patients with acute pharyngotonsillitis in primary care setting: a real-world experience

BACKGROUND: Acute pharyngotonsillitis (APT) is a common medical condition, usually caused by a viral infection. Nevertheless, inappropriate antibiotic use is widespread. Oral essential oil therapy (OEOT) may be valuable in managing mild-moderate diseases, including APT. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of OA in managing patients with APT in a primary care setting.METHODS: The study included 97 APT patients followed by primary care doctors. Oleobiotic Salud Respiratoria (manufactured by Pranarom International S.A.) containing five essential oils (oregano, cinnamon, lemon, eucalyptus, and pine) was used at two dosages and compared with oral Penicillin V. Patients were stratified into three groups accordingly. Treatments lasted five days. Sore throat, general conditions, and body temperature were assessed daily for ten days. The satisfaction of patients and doctors was also considered. Safety considered adverse events.RESULTS: The two dosages of OEOT and antibiotics significantly (P