Description
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Lavender, also known as Lavandula angustifolia, has been prized for centuries for its delightful scent and beautiful blooms. It has a long history of traditional use and was used as an antiseptic in ancient Arabian, Greek and Roman medicines.
Lavender has traditionally been valued for its calming, soothing and digestive properties. It is traditionally used to support nervous system wellbeing, relaxation and sleep, as well as healthy digestion and women’s wellbeing during menopause.
What Lavender May Support
Lavender has traditionally been used to support:
- Healthy relaxation and nervous system wellbeing, including anxiety, restlessness and low mood
- Healthy sleep and restful nights, particularly in cases of insomnia
- Headache and nervous tension
- Healthy digestive function, including indigestion, flatulence and colic
- Digestive strength and comfort
- Women’s wellbeing during menopause
- Emotional wellbeing associated with menopausal depression
Key Constituents
Lavender contains a range of naturally occurring compounds, including rosmarinic acid, coumarins, flavonoids, tannins, triterpenes and volatile oils. Its volatile oil contains constituents such as cineole, borneol, camphor, linalool, perillyl alcohol, linalyl acetate and caryophyllene epoxide.
Important Information
Lavender is traditionally considered dry and hot.
There are no known restrictions for external use during pregnancy. However, the safety of internal use during pregnancy has not been scientifically established.
No contraindications or cautions are known.
Caution is advised when using Lavender alongside barbiturates, benzodiazepines and other central nervous system depressant medicines. Monitoring is advised when used with antihypertensive medicines.
Lavender may be beneficial alongside antidepressant medicines, including imipramine, when used under medical supervision.
If you take prescription medicines, have an existing medical condition or are considering internal use during pregnancy, seek advice from a qualified healthcare practitioner before use.
For more detailed information about Lavender, including its traditional uses, constituents, research and clinical considerations, please see the full herbal monograph.
Read More: Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)_Summary
