Olfactory nerve safe care aromatherapy: a potential management of olfactory dysfunction in Covid-19 patients

Abstract

Olfactory dysfunction refers to a reduction or complete loss of the sense of smell and represents a clinically significant condition that substantially diminishes a patient's quality of life. In December 2019, a novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) emerged in Wuhan, China, and rapidly disseminated globally. On February 12, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) designated the resultant illness Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). A considerably high proportion of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 report anosmia as a prominent symptom; however, the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this manifestation remain incompletely understood. Current therapeutic approaches for COVID-19-associated anosmia include nasal irrigation, intranasal or systemic corticosteroids, and intranasal sodium citrate. Emerging treatment modalities under active investigation include tissue engineering and stem cell therapy; nonetheless, none of the existing or investigational treatments has demonstrated sufficient efficacy in resolving anosmia. In light of these therapeutic limitations, the Olfactory Nerve Safe Care Aromatherapy (ONSCA) inhaler is proposed as a promising adjunct for managing olfactory dysfunction. This product is designed to be both effective and convenient, enabling patients with anosmia to administer therapy at any time and in any setting. The formulation incorporates four primary aromatic compounds: fruity, flowery, spicy, and resinous, selected to optimally stimulate olfactory recovery. Collectively, the available evidence suggests that ONSCA holds considerable promise as an effective and accessible solution for COVID-19-associated olfactory dysfunction.