|
On this page
| | 
|
|
Introduction
This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb lavender--common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Lavender is native to the Mediterranean region. It was used in ancient Egypt as part of the process for mummifying bodies. Lavender's use as a bath additive originated in Persia, Greece, and Rome. The herb's name comes from the Latin lavare, which means "to wash."
Common Names--lavender, English lavender, garden lavender
Latin Names--Lavandula angustifolia
Top
What It Is Used For
- Historically, lavender was used as an antiseptic and for mental health purposes.
- Today, the herb is used for conditions such as anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, and depression.
- Lavender is also used for headache, upset stomach, and hair loss.
Top
How It Is Used
- Lavender is most commonly used in aromatherapy, in which the scent of the essential oil from the flowers is inhaled.
- The essential oil can also be diluted with another oil and applied to the skin.
- Dried lavender flowers can be used to make teas or liquid extracts that can be taken by mouth.
Top
What the Science Says
- There is little scientific evidence of lavender's effectiveness for most health uses.
- Small studies on lavender for anxiety show mixed results.
- Some preliminary results indicate that lavender oil, combined with oils from other herbs, may help with hair loss from a condition called alopecia areata.
Top
Side Effects and Cautions
- Topical use of diluted lavender oil or use of lavender as aromatherapy is generally considered safe for most adults. However, applying lavender oil to the skin can cause irritation.
- Lavender oil is poisonous if taken by mouth.
- When lavender teas and extracts are taken by mouth, they may cause headache, changes in appetite, and constipation.
- Using lavender with sedative medications may increase drowsiness.
- Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
Top
Sources
Lavender. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed on December 28, 2006.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Miller). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed on December 28, 2006.
Lavender flower. In: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, MA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:226-229.
Top
For More Information
Visit the NCCAM Web site and view:
NCCAM Clearinghouse
Toll-free in the U.S.: 
1-888-644-6226
TTY (for deaf and hard-of-hearing callers): 1-866-464-3615
E-mail:
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
CAM on PubMed
Web site: nccam.nih.gov/camonpubmed/
NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
Web site: ods.od.nih.gov
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
Lavender and Tea Tree Oils May Cause Breast Growth in Boys
Top
This publication is not copyrighted and is in the public domain. Duplication is encouraged.
NCCAM has provided this material for your information. It is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your primary health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with your health care provider. The mention of any product, service, or therapy in this information is not an endorsement by NCCAM.
NCCAM Publication No. D366
March 2007
Top
