Historically, lavender was used to mummify bodies in Egypt, in baths in Greece and Rome, and for antiseptic and mental health purposes.
Research on the Benefits of Lavender
No scientific studies have specifically examined the benefits lavender use for social anxiety disorder (SAD). In a 2000 systematic review of aromatherapy studies, Cook and Ernst reported that in general, aromatherapy is helpful in reducing anxiety and stress in the short-term. A 2012 review study also showed some evidence of the usefulness of lavender taken orally for anxiety. More research is needed to support the used of lavender for the treatment of SAD.
Usage
Lavender is usually used in the form of an essential oil as part of aromatherapy. You can inhale the scent, apply it to the skin, or perhaps the most effective way, is adding three to five drops of the essential oil to an ultrasonic aromatherapy diffuser. Dried lavender can also be used to make a tea or liquid extract. Lavender may also be taken in pill form. Lavender tea can be made by steeping 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves for 15 minutes in a cup of boiling water. In liquid extract form, no more than 60 drops of lavender should be taken in a day. Before ingesting lavender in liquid form, you should read the product label and discuss the dose with a qualified health care provider.
Who Shouldn’t Use It
There is not enough scientific evidence to safely recommend lavender for children younger than 18 years. Lavender taken by mouth has the potential to increase the risk of bleeding. If you suffer from a bleeding disorder, or are taking medication that may increase bleeding, use caution when taking lavender.
Medication Interactions
Lavender has the potential to increase the drowsiness caused by other treatments for SAD, such as Xanax (and other benzodiazepines) and St. John’s Wort (and other herbal supplements). The same effects may be seen with barbiturates, narcotics, seizure medications, and alcohol. Lavender may also increase the toxicity of antidepressant medications and herbs and supplements taken for depression. When taken with drugs such as aspirin, warfarin, ibuprofen, and naproxen lavender may increase the risk of bleeding. Check the package insert and speak with a healthcare professional or pharmacist about possible interactions.
Side Effects
Side effects are rare but may include the following:
A mild rashSun sensitivityChanges in skin pigmentationDrowsinessNauseaLoss of appetiteHeadacheConstipationConfusion (after ingesting large doses of lavender or perillyl alcohol, which is derived from lavender)
Associated Risks
Caution should be used when driving or operating heavy machinery if lavender is combined with medications causing drowsiness. Lavender essential oil can be poisonous if taken by mouth. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the production of herbs and supplements. Most herbs and supplements are not thoroughly tested, and there is no guarantee regarding the ingredients or safety of the products. Use of lavender over an extended period of time should be supervised by a qualified healthcare professional.
