Effects of consuming the Neurovegetative Regulating Infusion in an elderly female patient with comorbidities: a clinical case report

Abstract

Acute emotional distress in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities represents a clinical challenge in primary and home care settings. Phytotherapy, through the use of infusions with anxiolytic, sedative, and antispasmodic properties, constitutes a low-cost alternative with broad cultural availability. However, evidence regarding its safety and efficacy in vulnerable populations with a history of tinnitus and arterial hypotension is limited. We report the case of a 76-year-old female with a history of arterial hypotension, tinnitus, environmental allergies, asthma, intercostal neuralgia, and rheumatoid arthritis, who presented with an episode of acute emotional imbalance characterized by crying, facial flushing, distress, and a state of generalized malaise. An infusion composed of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.), linden (Tilia spp.), and dried orange peel (Citrus sinensis), sweetened with honey, was administered at a warm temperature. Ten minutes after ingestion, progressive relaxation, disappearance of facial flushing, and remission of the anxiety symptoms reported by the patient were observed. Subsequently, a transient episode of headache and exacerbation of tinnitus was documented, with blood pressure normalizing to the patient's baseline values in approximately 8 hours. The infusion used produced a clinically observable calming effect in the patient; however, a possible association between chamomile consumption and the transient exacerbation of tinnitus was identified, as well as a transient increase in blood pressure. We highlight the need to measure blood pressure before administering phytotherapy and to consider individual interactions with the medicinal plants used.