Benefits of Lavender

There are many purported benefits of lavender, some with more supporting evidence than others. When used as an herbal remedy, lavender is often claimed to be useful for conditions such as insomnia, restlessness, upset stomach, and migraines. Other claimed benefits of lavender (when applied to the skin) include pain relief, hair growth in people with alopecia areata, and improved circulation.

 

Lavender Benefits: An Overview

Lavender is often used as a scent or flavoring agent for various products. It is also used medicinally (as an herbal remedy). When taken orally, lavender is sometimes claimed to be beneficial for the following conditions:
 
  • Depression
  • Restlessness
  • Insomnia
  • Loss of appetite
  • Gas
  • Upset stomach, nausea, or vomiting
  • Migraines
  • Toothaches
  • Sprains
  • Nerve pain
  • Acne
  • Cancer
  • Menstrual problems.
     
When applied to the skin, lavender is claimed to be beneficial for the following conditions:
 
  • A specific type of hair loss known as alopecia areata
  • Pain
  • Circulation problems.
     
Lavender is also said to work as an insect repellent and to promote overall psychological well-being when applied to the skin.
 
When inhaled (as aromatherapy), lavender is said to be beneficial for the following conditions:
 
There is little scientific evidence that lavender is beneficial for most uses (see Does Lavender Work? for more information). As with many alternative and complementary therapies, claims for the benefits of lavender are sometimes exaggerated, and such claims must be evaluated critically.
 
(Benefits of Lavender Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;