Lavender

Lavender is a flowering plant that is often used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages, as a scent in various products (such as cosmetics or cleaning products), and as an aromatherapy oil. It is also claimed to be beneficial as an herbal remedy for conditions such as hair loss, insomnia, and depression. Potential side effects of lavender include increased appetite, constipation, and headaches.

What Is Lavender?

Lavender is a flowering plant. It is used in a wide variety of products, such as foods, cosmetics, and cleaning products. It is also used medicinally as an herbal remedy, taken orally, used as an essential oil, or applied to the skin. It is claimed to be beneficial for a variety of different conditions, such as depression, insomnia, hair loss, and nervousness.
 
(Click Benefits of Lavender for more information on what lavender is used for, including additional lavender uses.)
 

How Does Lavender Work?

It is not known exactly how lavender may work. Lavender contains several different compounds that may have medicinal properties. Some of these compounds may have sedative, anti-spasm, anti-seizure, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving effects. Some compounds in lavender may also act like estrogens. Different parts of the lavender plant may contain different active compounds.
 

Is Lavender Effective?

It is not clear whether lavender really works for most uses.
 
(Click Does Lavender Work? for more information.)
 

Lavender Dosing Information

A standard lavender "dose" has not been established for any use.
 
(Click Lavender Dosage for more information.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
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