Respiratory: COPD, respiratory congestion, anti-inflammatory, possibly asthma, ear infections

Cardiovascular: Hypertension

Gastrointestinal: Indigestion, heartburn, canker sores, gas, nervous stomach, constipation, colic, cramps, rectal pain

Musculoskeletal: Mild muscle relaxer, joint pain

Glucose: May help protect against hyperglycemia

Skin: Helps to heal insect bites, burns, minor cuts, inflammatory conditions, possibly acne, hair loss (in combination with thyme, rosemary, and cedarwood), healing, cold sores, and eczema.

Immunity: May help boost immunity

Genitourinary:  Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea) may increase estrogen and decrease testosterone, vaginal pain (?)

Neurologic: Restlessness, insomnia,  migraines (apply oils to temples), dementia, post-herpetic neuralgia after shingles (used as aromatherapy)

Mental Health: Restlessness, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and stress may reduce agitation in dementia (inhaled and oral preparations)

Other: Fall prevention in the elderly and infirm may help increase appetite. Pain reduction - especially after surgery (inhaled), insect repellent

                                                         *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Excess use may cause constipation and headaches. Skin irritation sometimes occurs when topically applied, and appetite increases, possibly gynecomastia (breast enlargement) in men, a potential hormone disruptor (contains phthalates)

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Significant pollen allergies (avoid tea). It may interact with antianxiety drugs and other herbs that cause drowsiness, making you even more sleepy. You may want to avoid it if you take blood pressure-lowering medications or herbs.

FORMS: Commonly oils, tea, oral tablets and capsules

Recommended Products

• Aura Cacia® Lavender (Order through Fullscripts link here)

• DoTERRA® Lavender 

• Young Living® Lavender 

I only recommend herbal and supplement brands that meet high standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing. Some links—like those Fullscripts, Life Extensions and Nature Made—are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. It helps support this free site. Many products also offer discounts, fast shipping, and helpful reviews.

Dosage

As directed on the product label.

Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Traditional herbal practices describe the use of lavender in capsule, tea, essential oil, or extract form. Modern commercial products vary widely in strength and formulation, so traditional amounts may not apply to current products. Many people use lavender for relaxation, sleep support, mood balance, or general wellness, but evidence varies and product strengths differ significantly.

Lavender oil is commonly used in diffusers, topical preparations, and massage oils. Some consumer health sites also describe traditional uses such as applying diluted oil to the skin or using lavender preparations for calming support. These reflect historical and consumer practices rather than standardized clinical recommendations.

For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to herbal dosing on the Epocrates website.

Traditional Use (General Information Only)

Lavender has been used traditionally for calming support, sleep, mood balance, and general wellness. Traditional practices describe the use of lavender flowers in teas, oils, balms, and later standardized extracts. These uses are based on historical and consumer experience rather than strong clinical evidence.

These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.