Evidence supporting the use of: Lavender
For the health condition: Nervousness

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has been traditionally used for centuries to alleviate symptoms of nervousness, anxiety, and stress, often in the form of aromatherapy, teas, or essential oils. In recent decades, scientific interest has grown, leading to a meaningful body of clinical research that supports its anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties. Several randomized controlled trials have shown that oral supplementation with standardized lavender oil preparations, such as Silexan, can significantly reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and subthreshold anxiety, with efficacy comparable to certain pharmaceutical anxiolytics but with fewer side effects.[1][2]

The mechanism by which lavender is thought to exert its calming effects involves modulation of neurotransmitter activity, particularly through inhibition of voltage-dependent calcium channels and alterations in serotonin receptor binding. Inhalation of lavender aroma has also been shown in some clinical and laboratory studies to reduce autonomic arousal, lower heart rate, and improve subjective feelings of calmness.[3]

While most evidence supports a mild to moderate effect, and while not all studies have shown benefit, the overall data suggest that standardized lavender oil preparations are both safe and effective for mild to moderate nervousness and anxiety. However, more research is needed to determine optimal dosing, long-term safety, and efficacy across broader populations.

[1] Kasper S. et al., "Silexan in generalized anxiety disorder: Randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial," Int J Neuropsychopharmacol, 2014.
[2] Woelk H., Schläfke S., "A multi-center, double-blind, randomized study of the lavender oil preparation Silexan in comparison to lorazepam for generalized anxiety disorder," Phytomedicine, 2010.
[3] Koulivand PH, et al., "Lavender and the Nervous System," Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013.

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