lavender oil

Lavender oil is an essential oil derived from the flowers of the lavender plant (primarily Lavandula angustifolia and related species). It is widely used as an herbal product and dietary supplement for its calming effects and potential therapeutic benefits. The primary mechanism of action is believed to involve modulation of neurotransmitter activity in the central nervous system—particularly through GABAergic pathways—resulting in anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and sedative effects. Additionally, lavender oil exhibits antibacterial and antifungal properties. It has been studied for use in conditions such as anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety), insomnia/sleep disturbances, alopecia areata (hair loss), postoperative pain management, headache/migraine relief, mild depression symptoms associated with anxiety or stress-related disorders, gastrointestinal discomfort related to stress/anxiety (such as irritable bowel syndrome), skin infections/irritations including acne or eczema when applied topically or inhaled via aromatherapy[1][2][3][4][5][8]. However, evidence supporting these uses varies in quality; most studies are small or have methodological limitations. A proprietary oral formulation called Silexan has been evaluated for anxiety at doses of 80–160 mg/day[8]. The FDA does not approve lavender oil as a pharmaceutical drug; it is regulated as a dietary supplement.

Brand names

doTERRA Lavender OilTisserand Lavender OilWoolzies Lavender OilAroma Magic Lavender OilEden Gardens Lavender OilSky Organics Lavender Oil

Other names

lavenderlavender essential oilLavandula angustifoliaLavandula officinalisEnglish LavenderFrench LavenderGarden LavenderSpanish LavenderSpike Lavender