Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia — also: English lavender
Reasonable evidence for mild anxiety relief (especially standardized oral oil) and relaxation.
A Mediterranean and European staple for calm, sleep, and fragrance since antiquity.
Aromatherapy and an oral standardized oil (silexan) show some benefit for anxiety; supports relaxation and sleep.
Linalool and linalyl acetate may modulate calming neurotransmission; some trials of oral lavender oil.
- Mild anxiety relief
- Relaxation/sleep support
Several trials of aromatherapy and oral silexan show modest anxiety benefit.
- Form matters (oral vs. aroma)
- Long-term data limited
- Skin irritation (neat oil)
- Sedation
- People on sedatives without advice
Skin irritation from undiluted oil; mild GI upset orally; debated, unproven hormonal concerns.
May add to sedatives.
Aroma/bath generally low risk; limited data on medicinal oral doses in pregnancy.
Hardy garden perennial; dry flower buds for tea/sachets.
Among the better-evidenced calming herbs — the standardized oral oil is the studied form.