Essential Oils & Aromatherapy · Essential oil
Lavender Oil
Lavandula angustifolia Mill. · also called Lavender, English lavender, common lavender, French lavender
Lavender oil is the strong-smelling oil steam-distilled from the flowers of English lavender, a Mediterranean plant. It is used in diffusers, massage oils and cosmetics, and a capsule made from it has been tested for anxiety. One capsule product beat placebo for anxiety in several trials; for smelling or rubbing the oil the evidence is mixed. The main caution: never swallow the bottled oil, because a toddler was poisoned by a small amount, and the oil is a known skin allergen.
General information, not medical advice. Last substantive update · Not medically reviewed. A named clinician has not signed off on this page. How this page is made
About Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is best known as a calming scent. A capsule made from it has done better than placebo for anxiety in trials linked to its maker. For smelling the oil or using it in massage, the evidence is mixed and most trials are weak. Safety comes first: do not swallow the oil, it can cause skin allergy, and it is listed as toxic to pets.
What lavender oil is
Lavender oil is the common name for the essential oil of Lavandula angustifolia, the English or common lavender. The European Medicines Agency says it is obtained by passing steam through the flowering tops. GBIF lists the accepted name as Lavandula angustifolia Mill., in the mint family, Lamiaceae.
The oil is rich in linalool and linalyl acetate. Both turn into stronger allergens when they meet air.
Products labelled lavender can come from other species, and a result for one species or product does not carry over to another. Poison Control says it can be hard to know the species, strength or contaminants in an essential oil bottle.
What people use it for, and how strong the evidence is
Anxiety is the best-studied use, and the best result belongs to one capsule. Five placebo-controlled trials of the Silexan capsule (1,213 adults, 10 weeks) pooled to better anxiety scores than placebo. The authors are linked to the maker, and NCCIH notes small samples and a lack of independent funding.
For smelling the oil, a 2019 review of 37 trials found lower anxiety scores, but most trials had a high risk of bias. For sleep, reviews of aromatherapy report gains, but the one dummy-oil trial in postmenopausal women missed its main outcome. Two nursing-home trials found no help for agitation in dementia.
After surgery, reviews report lower pain scores and less nausea with lavender or other oils, with low certainty.
The research in one view
Most trials are small, short and self-reported, and a scent is hard to hide from a comparison group. Trials of the capsule are the most solid, but they test one product and are linked to its maker. NCCIH says more high-quality research is needed.
Studies of lavender for hair, skin and other popular claims were not found for this profile.
Bottled oil, capsule, herb and tea are different things
Results for the Silexan capsule do not show that bottled oil, scent or skin use works. A medicine-style capsule is not the same as swallowing essential oil from a bottle, which we do not advise. Lavender herb and lavender tea are separate products.
In 16 healthy volunteers the capsule had no clinically relevant effect on five liver enzymes. That does not cover other forms.
What regulators say
In the EU, lavender oil medicines are accepted for mild stress and tiredness and to aid sleep, in adults and children over 12. This is based on long-standing use, not on trials; the committee said the studies it looked at were too small to show an effect. At the time of its 2014 summary it found no major safety concerns and only very rare allergic reactions. People with open wounds, skin problems, high fever, severe infections or severe heart and circulation problems should not have full baths with lavender oil.
NCCIH (updated February 2025) says more research is needed. It lists headache or coughing from aromatherapy, allergic skin reactions, a theoretical sedative interaction, and little knowledge about pregnancy and breastfeeding.
At a glance
Traditional uses history, not proof
- Scent used in bath products, perfumes and aromatherapy (NCCIH).
- Lavender oil medicines accepted in the EU on long-standing use for mild stress, tiredness and to aid sleep (EMA).
- Promoted as an oral supplement for calming anxiety and stress (NCCIH).
Studied for research
- Anxiety, oral Silexan capsule, moderate
- Anxiety, smelled oil or massage, low
- Low mood and depression, capsule, low
- Sleep, smelled oil, low
- Mild stress and tiredness, traditional use, insufficient
- Pain and nausea after surgery, smelled oil, low
- Agitation in dementia, against
Main compounds
- Linalool, a main component
- Linalyl acetate, described as the main component
- Beta-caryophyllene, another main terpene
Common forms
- Essential oil (steam-distilled flowering tops)
- Oral capsule from lavender oil (Silexan, one manufactured product)
- Skin products, massage oils and fragranced cosmetics
- Lavender herb and tea (different products)
Research links: NCCIH: Lavender · EMA: Lavender oil herbal summary · Poison Control: Essential oils · ASPCA: Lavender · NIEHS: Essential oils · Capsule meta-analysis in anxiety (abstract) · Research Library · Genes & Biomarkers Library
What it is and its history
- Accepted scientific name
- Lavandula angustifolia
- Naming authority
- Mill.
- Common names
- Lavender (English); English lavender (English); Common lavender (English); French lavender (English)
- Family or group
- Lamiaceae (mint family), per GBIF. NCCIH says lavender is an aromatic evergreen plant native to the Mediterranean region, including France, Spain, Andorra and Italy.
- Classification
- Plantae > Tracheophyta > Magnoliopsida > Lamiales > Lamiaceae > Lavandula > Lavandula angustifolia
- Native range
- Mediterranean region including France, Spain, Andorra and Italy (NCCIH).
- Habitat
- Not checked.
- What it looks like
- Part used: Flowering tops are steam-distilled to make the oil (EMA). This page does not describe how to recognise the plant.
- Look-alikes and adulterants
- Name: Other lavender species and hybrids sold as 'lavender' oil; Note: Products labelled 'lavender' can come from other species, and a result for one species or product does not carry over to another. A source naming the other species was not read, so none is listed here.
- Sustainability and conservation
- Not checked (no IUCN or CITES source read).
Traditional use and history history, not clinical proof
| Tradition or era | Documented use | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Bath products, perfumes and aromatherapy | NCCIH says lavender's popular scent has commonly been used in bath products, perfumes and aromatherapy, and that it is promoted for calming anxiety and stress. | NCCIH |
| European herbal medicine | The EU herbal committee accepts lavender oil medicines for mild stress and exhaustion and to aid sleep on the basis of at least 30 years of use, 15 of them in the EU. | EMA HMPC public summary |
| Origin of the name | NCCIH says the name comes from the Latin verb 'lavare', meaning 'to wash'. Older history was not verified from a source. | NCCIH |
Traditional use shows how it was used. It does not show that it works or is safe today.
What is inside, and how it may work
What it contains and how those compounds act in cells and animals. Laboratory and animal mechanisms are not proven effects in people.
Main compounds
| Compound | Family | Where it is concentrated | Activity studied | Level of evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linalool PubChem 6549 | monoterpene alcohol | Steam-distilled oil from flowering tops Varies by oil; no typical value given. | A main component of lavender oil. Oxidized linalool is a known skin sensitizer. Did not inhibit the liver enzymes tested in test-tube work; the ASPCA names it as a toxic principle for pets in the plant. 34 11 18 31 | Laboratory |
| Linalyl acetate PubChem 8294 | monoterpene ester | Steam-distilled oil from flowering tops Described as the main component of lavender oil (Sköld 2008); amounts not given. | Oxidizes in air to stronger skin allergens; weakly inhibits CYP3A4 in test-tube tests; converts to linalool in liver preparations. 35 23 18 | Laboratory |
| Beta-caryophyllene PubChem 5281515 | sesquiterpene | Oil Named as one of three main terpenes in lavender oil; amount not given. | Oxidizes in air along with the other main terpenes. 36 11 | Laboratory |
Mechanisms, receptors and pathways
| Target or pathway | Gene or receptor | What was found | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Estrogen and androgen receptor activity | Estrogen receptor, androgen receptor | Lavender oil components showed estrogen-like and anti-androgen activity in human cell lines. The authors of one report say it is unknown whether the oil is strong enough in the body to cause effects. 21 14 32 | Laboratory research |
| Skin sensitization by air oxidation | Immune sensitization (contact allergy) | Oxidation of linalool and linalyl acetate forms hydroperoxides, the products with the highest sensitizing strength in mice. 23 11 | Animal / lab |
| Liver drug-metabolising enzymes | CYP3A4, CYP1A2 | Weak inhibition by lavender oil in human liver preparations; no relevant effect of the oral capsule on five CYP enzymes in 16 volunteers. 18 8 | In vitro and human |
Absorption, metabolism and elimination
- Absorption
- Not established in the sources read. Limited skin absorption of some components is cited as a reason the cell-line findings may not apply in the body (Braunstein 2023).
- Distribution
- Not established.
- Metabolism
- In human liver preparations linalool was metabolised quickly, and linalyl acetate converted to linalool.
- Elimination
- Not established.
- Bioavailability
- Not established.
Isolated compounds versus whole extracts
Bottled essential oil, the Silexan capsule, the dried flower and lavender tea are different products. The best anxiety trials are on the capsule; the safety cases are mostly skin products and a swallowed home fragrance. Results do not carry between them.
Nutritional composition
Lavender oil is not a nutrient. NCCIH says it is likely safe to consume lavender in the amounts typically used in foods, which is different from swallowing the oil.
1 moderate certainty5 low certainty2 not enough evidence1 evidence against
What was looked at
The 9 benefits and uses checked for Lavender Oil, each with how strong the evidence is. Tap one to open it.
- Anxiety (oral Silexan capsule, one manufactured product)Moderate certainty
- Anxiety (smelling the oil or massage with the oil)Low certainty
- Low mood and depression (oral Silexan capsule)Low certainty
- Sleep and insomnia (smelling the oil)Low certainty
- Mild stress and tiredness (traditional use, EU herbal committee)Not enough evidence
- Agitation in people with dementiaEvidence against
- Pain after surgery (smelling the oil)Low certainty
- Nausea after surgery (smelling the oil, with other oils)Low certainty
- Other uses NCCIH calls preliminary (menopause-related sexual problems, cough, topical use for depression)Not enough evidence
Lab markers tracked in the studies
Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA) scoreMontgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) scoreSleep quality scores (for example the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index)Counts of agitated behavioursPain score after surgeryPostoperative nausea severity
What is Lavender Oil good for?
The uses people ask about and how strong the evidence is for each. Read the certainty label first: the best result is for one capsule, not for bottled oil.
Benefits, one by one
Each card is a research question, not a promise. Tap a goal to filter. Open a card to see the studies, doses and limits.
Anxiety (oral Silexan capsule, one manufactured product)
Moderate certaintyA standardized lavender oil capsule called Silexan beat placebo for anxiety in five trials of adults, pooled in a 2023 analysis. This is a medicine-style capsule, not bottled essential oil, and it does not show that smelling or rubbing the oil works.
6 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Five placebo-controlled trials (1,213 adults) over 10 weeks pooled; one 539-person trial compared the capsule with paroxetine and placebo; an older trial compared it with lorazepam without a placebo group.
Results
After 10 weeks the capsule beat placebo on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale and on self-rated anxiety. 60% of people on the higher capsule strength and 52% on the lower had at least a 50% fall in HAMA score, against 38% on placebo and 43% on paroxetine in the 539-person trial. Adverse events were similar to placebo; burping was the most reported side effect in related trials.
Effect sizes as reported
Responder rate ratio 1.34 (50% HAMA fall); much or very much improved rate ratio 1.51.
Why this rating
Several randomized double-blind trials that agree, but they all test one product, were run in one research programme, and are linked to its maker. NCCIH notes small samples and lack of independent funding and testing.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Who was studied
Adults with subthreshold anxiety, mixed anxiety and depression, or generalized anxiety disorder.
Limits
One manufactured product (Silexan); ten weeks; maker-linked trials; results do not carry over to bottled oil, scent or skin use.
Why researchers looked
Lavender is traditionally used for nerves and calm, and one company developed a capsule form for anxiety disorders.
Traditional use
Mild stress and exhaustion: accepted by the EU herbal committee on long-standing use, not on trials (EMA).
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not established in the human studies read. The papers we read describe efficacy only; no mechanism is claimed here.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Oral lavender oil capsules are a medicine-style product. Do not swallow essential oil from a bottle. See the Safety tab.
Anxiety (smelling the oil or massage with the oil)
Low certaintyA large 2019 review found lower anxiety scores after smelling lavender or having a massage with lavender oil. But most of the trials had a high risk of bias, and a scent is hard to hide from a comparison group. NCCIH says it is unclear whether lavender aromatherapy helps anxiety.
2 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
The review pooled 37 randomized trials (3,964 people). Inhalation: 1,682 people on any validated scale; massage: 448 people.
Results
Inhaled lavender lowered anxiety scores (Hedges g -0.73) and state anxiety on the Spielberger scale. Massage with lavender oil also lowered scores (g -0.66), but the authors say those trials cannot show the benefit comes from lavender itself and not the massage. Inhalation did not change systolic blood pressure.
Effect sizes as reported
Inhalation g -0.73 (95% CI -1.00 to -0.46); massage g -0.66 (-0.97 to -0.35).
Why this rating
The authors say most included trials had a high overall risk of bias and the designs were very varied. NCCIH says it is unclear whether aromatherapy helps anxiety.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Who was studied
Many settings: patients before procedures, people with anxiety, and others. Many different ways of delivering the scent.
Limits
High risk of bias; varied methods; blinding is hard with a scent; effects in the review may be partly expectation.
Why researchers looked
Lavender is the best-known calming scent, so many small trials test it in waiting rooms, hospitals and clinics.
Traditional use
Lavender scent has long been used in baths, perfumes and aromatherapy (NCCIH).
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Inhaling can cause headache or coughing (NCCIH). Skin use can cause allergy. See the Safety tab.
Low mood and depression (oral Silexan capsule)
Low certaintyIn two trials the capsule did better than placebo for mixed anxiety and depression, and for mild to moderate major depression. The gains were modest. This is again the one capsule product, not bottled oil.
3 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A 318-person trial in mixed anxiety and depression (70 days, placebo); a 498-person trial in mild or moderate major depression (56 days) with placebo and sertraline as comparators.
Results
Mixed anxiety-depression: HAMA fell 10.8 vs 8.4 points and MADRS 9.2 vs 6.1 points with capsule vs placebo. Major depression: capsule beat placebo by 2.17 MADRS points; sertraline beat placebo by 2.59 points. Burping was the main extra side effect.
Effect sizes as reported
MADRS difference vs placebo 2.17 points (95% CI 0.58 to 3.76) in major depression.
Why this rating
One trial per condition, short, a small gap from placebo, one product, and authors with ties to the maker. NCCIH calls the oral lavender research for depression preliminary.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Who was studied
Adults with mixed anxiety and depressive disorder or mild to moderate major depression.
Limits
Each result rests on a single trial. Not a substitute for care of depression: see a clinician.
Why researchers looked
Anxiety and low mood often occur together, so the capsule was also tested for mood.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not established in the abstracts read.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Depression is a serious illness: talk to a clinician before using anything instead of treatment.
Sleep and insomnia (smelling the oil)
Low certaintyReviews of aromatherapy (many scents together) found better sleep scores, and in older adults lavender on its own did best. But the one trial that tested lavender oil against a dummy oil in postmenopausal women found no clear difference on its main sleep score. NCCIH says it is unclear.
5 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A meta-analysis of aromatherapy in older adults; a 27-study meta-analysis of inhaled aromatherapy for insomnia with another illness (2,072 people); one 35-woman randomized trial of lavender oil against sunflower oil for 29 days.
Results
Older adults: sleep quality improved (SMD -1.02 overall, -1.39 for lavender alone). Insomnia with other illness: scores improved (mean difference -2.90). Postmenopausal women: no significant difference between lavender and sunflower oil on the main outcome (P=0.22); both groups improved with sleep-hygiene advice.
Effect sizes as reported
Older adults SMD -1.02 (95% CI -1.38 to -0.66); lavender-alone subgroup -1.39.
Why this rating
Pooled reviews mix scents and methods and include unblinded trials; the placebo-controlled trial was small and missed its main outcome.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Who was studied
Older adults; people with insomnia alongside other illness; postmenopausal women.
Limits
Not specific to lavender oil in most pooled results; short trials; scent expectation effects.
Why researchers looked
A relaxing scent at bedtime is one of the most common reasons people buy lavender oil.
Traditional use
EMA accepted lavender oil medicines to aid sleep on long-standing use, not trials.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Not shown to treat insomnia. Long-lasting sleep problems need a clinician.
Mild stress and tiredness (traditional use, EU herbal committee)
Not enough evidenceThe European Medicines Agency committee accepted lavender oil medicines for mild stress and tiredness and to aid sleep, in adults and children over 12. It did so because of long-standing use, not because trials proved it. It said the trials it looked at were too small to show an effect.
1 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No new human trials; a regulator summary.
Results
The committee found lavender oil showed a possible effect on anxiety, stress and insomnia but the number of patients per study was too low to establish an effect.
Why this rating
Regulatory acceptance on tradition is not proof of benefit; the committee said so.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Who was studied
Adults and children over 12 using EU-licensed lavender oil medicines.
Limits
The EMA summary dates from 2014. Applies to licensed medicines, not any bottle of essential oil.
Why researchers looked
A long record of use in Europe as a calming herbal product.
Traditional use
At least 30 years of use, 15 of them in the EU, was the EMA's test for traditional use.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not applicable.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
The EMA says people with open wounds, skin problems, high fever, severe infections or severe heart and circulation problems should not have full baths with lavender oil.
Agitation in people with dementia
Evidence againstTwo careful trials in nursing homes did not find lavender oil better than a dummy oil for agitation. Some reviews that pool many scents report benefit, but the better-controlled trials were negative.
2 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A 64-resident single-blind crossover trial using 30% lavender oil on the skin versus an inactive oil; a 49-resident crossover trial of lavender and lemon balm oils versus sunflower oil.
Results
The 64-resident trial found lavender no better than the control oil for agitated behaviour or mood. The 49-resident trial found no reduction in agitation compared with placebo for either oil overall.
Why this rating
Two small randomized trials with objective or standard scales both missed their main result.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Who was studied
Nursing-home residents with agitation, most with dementia.
Limits
Small trials; single settings; one used skin application and one a daily course.
Why researchers looked
Agitation is hard to treat, and caregivers look for gentle options.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Skin use on frail older people can cause allergy: see the Safety tab.
Pain after surgery (smelling the oil)
Low certaintyA 2025 review of 15 trials found that smelling lavender lowered pain scores after surgery. Evidence on needing less pain medicine was mixed. A 100-woman trial after caesarean section also found lower pain with lavender than with a distilled-water dummy.
2 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A review of 15 randomized trials in adults (cardiac and abdominal surgery mostly); one 100-woman randomized trial after caesarean.
Results
The review says lavender inhalation significantly reduced pain scores; three trials found less pain medicine use and three found no effect. In the caesarean trial, pain at rest was 23.8 with lavender vs 38.8 with placebo and pain after moving 40.1 vs 60.3; no adverse effects were reported.
Effect sizes as reported
Caesarean trial: p<0.001 for both pain outcomes.
Why this rating
Short follow-up (minutes), scent is hard to blind, the review gives no pooled size in its abstract, one-centre trial.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Who was studied
Adults after surgery; women after caesarean section.
Limits
Pain was checked soon after the scent. Not a replacement for pain care from the surgical team.
Why researchers looked
Pain after surgery is common and a scent is a low-risk add-on that nurses can offer.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Follow the surgical team's advice; sedative drugs and lavender may interact in theory (NCCIH).
Nausea after surgery (smelling the oil, with other oils)
Low certaintyA 2024 review found that aromatherapy lowered how severe nausea was after surgery. Ginger, lavender and peppermint oils were singled out. The fall in vomiting was not statistically significant, and the authors rated the evidence low in certainty.
1 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Eight randomized trials pooled in the meta-analysis; many oils together.
Results
Nausea severity fell (SMD -0.93, 95% CI -1.64 to -0.22). Vomiting episodes did not fall significantly. The authors say results should be read with caution because of heterogeneity and possible bias.
Effect sizes as reported
Nausea SMD -0.93 (-1.64 to -0.22).
Why this rating
The authors graded the certainty of evidence low.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Who was studied
Surgical patients.
Limits
Several oils pooled; lavender alone was not isolated in the abstract.
Why researchers looked
Nausea after anaesthesia is common and drug-free options are wanted.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Follow the surgical team's advice.
Other uses NCCIH calls preliminary (menopause-related sexual problems, cough, topical use for depression)
Not enough evidenceNCCIH describes single small studies: an oral lavender oil product for menopause-related sexual problems (72 women) and a lavender syrup for cough in COVID-19. It says skin application does not seem to help depression. None of this is enough to rely on.
1 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
One preliminary study of 72 postmenopausal women (oral product); one preliminary study of a lavender syrup. We read NCCIH's summary, not the studies.
Results
NCCIH says more reliable evidence is needed to confirm any effect for these.
Why this rating
Summary-only: we did not open the original studies.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no ways of using the oil.
Who was studied
Postmenopausal women; people with COVID-19.
Limits
Oral products, not bottled essential oil.
Why researchers looked
These are ideas that single small studies raised.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Do not swallow essential oil.
Connections to the rest of health
How Lavender Oil connects to the rest of our health knowledge graph. Every link says what kind of connection it is. A safety link (for example to the liver) is a warning, not a benefit. A study that merely mentions a topic never creates a benefit link.
Explore every connection: goals, body systems, organs, symptoms, genes
A. Wellness goals
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anxiety Support | Moderate certainty | Anxiety (oral Silexan capsule, one manufactured product): A standardized lavender oil capsule called Silexan beat placebo for anxiety in five trials of adults, pooled in a 2023 analysis. This is a medicine-style capsule, not bottled essential oil, and it does not show that smelling or rubbing the oil works. | 6 15 26 7 16 29 | |
| Calm Relaxation | Moderate certainty | Anxiety (oral Silexan capsule, one manufactured product): A standardized lavender oil capsule called Silexan beat placebo for anxiety in five trials of adults, pooled in a 2023 analysis. This is a medicine-style capsule, not bottled essential oil, and it does not show that smelling or rubbing the oil works. | 6 15 26 7 16 29 | |
| Stress Reduction | Moderate certainty | Anxiety (oral Silexan capsule, one manufactured product): A standardized lavender oil capsule called Silexan beat placebo for anxiety in five trials of adults, pooled in a 2023 analysis. This is a medicine-style capsule, not bottled essential oil, and it does not show that smelling or rubbing the oil works. | 6 15 26 7 16 29 | |
| Anxiety Support | Potential benefit | Low certainty | Anxiety (smelling the oil or massage with the oil): A large 2019 review found lower anxiety scores after smelling lavender or having a massage with lavender oil. But most of the trials had a high risk of bias, and a scent is hard to hide from a comparison group. NCCIH says it is unclear whether lavender aromatherapy helps anxiety. | 7 29 |
| Calm Relaxation | Potential benefit | Low certainty | Anxiety (smelling the oil or massage with the oil): A large 2019 review found lower anxiety scores after smelling lavender or having a massage with lavender oil. But most of the trials had a high risk of bias, and a scent is hard to hide from a comparison group. NCCIH says it is unclear whether lavender aromatherapy helps anxiety. Pain after surgery (smelling the oil): A 2025 review of 15 trials found that smelling lavender lowered pain scores after surgery. Evidence on needing less pain medicine was mixed. A 100-woman trial after caesarean section also found lower pain with lavender than with a distilled-water dummy. | 7 29 22 19 |
| Stress Reduction | Potential benefit | Low certainty | Anxiety (smelling the oil or massage with the oil): A large 2019 review found lower anxiety scores after smelling lavender or having a massage with lavender oil. But most of the trials had a high risk of bias, and a scent is hard to hide from a comparison group. NCCIH says it is unclear whether lavender aromatherapy helps anxiety. | 7 29 |
| Mood Balance | Low certainty | Low mood and depression (oral Silexan capsule): In two trials the capsule did better than placebo for mixed anxiety and depression, and for mild to moderate major depression. The gains were modest. This is again the one capsule product, not bottled oil. | 16 17 29 | |
| Better Sleep | Potential benefit | Low certainty | Sleep and insomnia (smelling the oil): Reviews of aromatherapy (many scents together) found better sleep scores, and in older adults lavender on its own did best. But the one trial that tested lavender oil against a dummy oil in postmenopausal women found no clear difference on its main sleep score. NCCIH says it is unclear. | 27 4 9 29 28 |
| Sleep Quality | Potential benefit | Low certainty | Sleep and insomnia (smelling the oil): Reviews of aromatherapy (many scents together) found better sleep scores, and in older adults lavender on its own did best. But the one trial that tested lavender oil against a dummy oil in postmenopausal women found no clear difference on its main sleep score. NCCIH says it is unclear. | 27 4 9 29 28 |
| Stress Reduction | Traditional use | Not enough evidence | Mild stress and tiredness (traditional use, EU herbal committee): The European Medicines Agency committee accepted lavender oil medicines for mild stress and tiredness and to aid sleep, in adults and children over 12. It did so because of long-standing use, not because trials proved it. It said the trials it looked at were too small to show an effect. | 28 |
| Calm Relaxation | Traditional use | Not enough evidence | Mild stress and tiredness (traditional use, EU herbal committee): The European Medicines Agency committee accepted lavender oil medicines for mild stress and tiredness and to aid sleep, in adults and children over 12. It did so because of long-standing use, not because trials proved it. It said the trials it looked at were too small to show an effect. | 28 |
| Calm Relaxation | Evidence against | Agitation in people with dementia: Two careful trials in nursing homes did not find lavender oil better than a dummy oil for agitation. Some reviews that pool many scents report benefit, but the better-controlled trials were negative. | 20 25 | |
| Digestive Support | Potential benefit | Low certainty | Nausea after surgery (smelling the oil, with other oils): A 2024 review found that aromatherapy lowered how severe nausea was after surgery. Ginger, lavender and peppermint oils were singled out. The fall in vomiting was not statistically significant, and the authors rated the evidence low in certainty. | 24 |
| Menopause Support | Not enough evidence | Other uses NCCIH calls preliminary (menopause-related sexual problems, cough, topical use for depression): NCCIH describes single small studies: an oral lavender oil product for menopause-related sexual problems (72 women) and a lavender syrup for cough in COVID-19. It says skin application does not seem to help depression. None of this is enough to rely on. | 29 |
B. Body systems
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nervous System | Biological association | Moderate certainty | Studied for: Anxiety (oral Silexan capsule, one manufactured product) Studied for: Anxiety (smelling the oil or massage with the oil) | 6 15 26 7 16 29 17 27 4 9 28 20 25 22 19 |
| Stress Mood | Biological association | Moderate certainty | Studied for: Anxiety (oral Silexan capsule, one manufactured product) Studied for: Anxiety (smelling the oil or massage with the oil) | 6 15 26 7 16 29 17 28 |
| Sleep Recovery | Biological association | Low certainty | Studied for: Sleep and insomnia (smelling the oil) | 27 4 9 29 28 |
| Pain Inflammation | Biological association | Low certainty | Studied for: Pain after surgery (smelling the oil) | 22 19 |
| Digestive System | Biological association | Low certainty | Studied for: Nausea after surgery (smelling the oil, with other oils) | 24 |
| Reproductive System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Other uses NCCIH calls preliminary (menopause-related sexual problems, cough, topical use for depression) | 29 |
| Respiratory System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Other uses NCCIH calls preliminary (menopause-related sexual problems, cough, topical use for depression) | 29 |
E. Health conditions
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contact dermatitis | Adverse effect or risk | Documented risk | Allergic skin reaction in clinic series and patch-test studies. Preparation or compound: Lavender oil, especially air-exposed oil |
1 2 12 11 |
| Prepubertal gynecomastia / premature thelarche | Very low certainty | A few case reports; cause unproven. Preparation or compound: Lavender (and tea tree) skin products |
14 21 13 | |
| Anxiety | Moderate certainty | Five placebo-controlled trials pooled; maker-linked. Preparation or compound: Oral Silexan capsule (not bottled oil) |
6 15 | |
| Anxiety | Potential benefit | Low certainty | 2019 review: lower scores, high risk of bias. Preparation or compound: Smelled lavender oil or massage |
7 |
| Insomnia | Potential benefit | Low certainty | Reviews report gains; the placebo-controlled trial missed its main outcome. Preparation or compound: Smelled aromatherapy, lavender alone in a subgroup |
27 9 |
| Agitation in dementia | Evidence against | Two small randomized trials were negative. Preparation or compound: Lavender oil on the skin or daily course |
20 25 |
I. Biomarkers
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA) score | Biological association | Moderate certainty | Measured in trials: decrease. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 15 26 6 |
| Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) score | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: decrease. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 17 16 |
| Sleep quality scores (for example the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: improve. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 27 9 |
| Counts of agitated behaviours | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: no change. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 20 |
| Pain score after surgery | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: decrease. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 19 22 |
| Postoperative nausea severity | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: decrease. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 24 |
J. Genes, receptors and enzymes
L. Active compounds
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linalool | Low certainty | Oxidation products are the strongest skin sensitizers in lavender oil. Preparation or compound: Oxidized linalool and linalyl acetate |
23 11 | |
| Linalool | Biological association | Laboratory | A main component of lavender oil. Oxidized linalool is a known skin sensitizer. Did not inhibit the liver enzymes tested in test-tube work; the ASPCA names it as a toxic principle for pets in the plant. Preparation or compound: Steam-distilled oil from flowering tops |
34 11 18 31 |
| Linalyl acetate | Biological association | Laboratory | Oxidizes in air to stronger skin allergens; weakly inhibits CYP3A4 in test-tube tests; converts to linalool in liver preparations. Preparation or compound: Steam-distilled oil from flowering tops |
35 23 18 |
| Beta-caryophyllene | Biological association | Laboratory | Oxidizes in air along with the other main terpenes. Preparation or compound: Oil |
36 11 |
Each connection is stored with the ingredient, the connected record, the kind of connection, the evidence status, the supporting studies, the preparation or compound involved, and a review date (last reviewed October 25, 2026).
Evidence at a glance: what the research found for 9 outcomes
Each outcome below is one thing researchers measured. Certainty is how far the evidence can be trusted, not how well it works. The full studies are on the next tab.
The evidence
The research centre for Lavender Oil. Every record here was checked against PubMed or the publisher's page; we never list a study we have not verified.
Evidence by outcome
Bars show how many studies we found for each outcome, not how well it works. People are added up across trials only (reviews are not added, to avoid double counting).
How we rate evidence
High certainty
Several well-run trials or reviews agree; further research is unlikely to change the picture much.
Moderate certainty
Good trials point the same way, but some doubt remains.
Low certainty
Small, short or inconsistent trials. The finding could change with better research.
Very low certainty
Very little or very weak human data. Treat as a possibility only.
Mixed findings
Trials or reviews disagree with each other.
Not enough evidence
Not enough human research to say either way.
Evidence against
Good research found no benefit, or found harm.
We take the reviewers' own risk-of-bias and GRADE statements where they exist, and otherwise judge from study size, design, consistency, directness and whether a product matches what is sold. Many publications do not make evidence high. Method note: We read the abstracts of 27 PubMed papers and the NCCIH, EMA, Poison Control, ASPCA and NIEHS pages, checked the plant name in GBIF and the compounds in PubChem. We did not find or read a LiverTox, LactMed or FDA statement.
Study library: every study we checked 36
| Study | Design | People | Product, dose, length | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barbaud 2023 Allergic contact dermatitis from essential oil in consumer products: Mode of uses and value of patch tests with an essential oil series. Results of a French study of the DAG. Contact Dermatitis · PMID 37403438 · DOI |
Multicentre case series |
42 42 patients with allergic contact dermatitis from their own essential oils (79% women, mean age 50) |
Essential oils on the skin; lavender was the most common oil Not reported here |
All 42 were sensitized to the oil they used, mainly lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), tea tree and ravintsara; two cases were due to helichrysum. Eight needed hospital care. 40% had not mentioned using essential oils and only 33% had received advice at purchase. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Patch-test results, mode of use Limitations: People already known to have allergy, so it shows that harm happens, not how often. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Bingham 2019 Contact allergy and allergic contact dermatitis caused by lavender: A retrospective study from an Australian clinic. Contact Dermatitis · PMID 30779160 · DOI |
Retrospective clinic database review (1993 2017) |
2178 2,178 patients patch-tested with lavender at a Victorian skin clinic |
Lavender (mostly lavender absolute in tests) Not reported here |
58 positive reactions in 49 people (2.2% of those tested). 27 were diagnosed with allergic contact dermatitis. Common sources were personal care products and essential oils. The authors call lavender an uncommon cause but important to consider. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Positive patch tests, diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis Limitations: A clinic population (people already suspected of allergy), not the general public. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Braunstein 2023 Are Prepubertal Gynaecomastia and Premature Thelarche Linked to Topical Lavender and Tea Tree Oil Use? touchREV Endocrinol · PMID 38187077 · DOI |
Narrative review |
12 12 children (8 boys, 4 girls) reported since 2007 |
Topical lavender and tea tree oil products oil Not reported here |
All 12 children improved after stopping the oils, and the oils and some components show estrogen-like and anti-androgen activity in cells. But limited skin absorption of some components, unknown oil content in the products, other exposures, and the fact that these conditions often clear by themselves mean the authors say cause cannot be concluded. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Evidence for cause Limitations: A narrative review by two authors. Funding and conflicts: One author reports being a defence expert for Johnson & Johnson in unrelated litigation. Read: abstract |
| Chen 2025 Inhalation aromatherapy for the treatment of comorbid insomnia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Psychiatry · PMID 40230824 · DOI |
Systematic review and meta analysis (PROSPERO CRD42023455278) |
2072 27 publications, 2,072 people with insomnia alongside another illness |
Inhaled aromatherapy (several herbs and oils) oil Not reported here varied · vs control |
Inhalation aromatherapy improved insomnia scores (mean difference -2.90, 95% CI -3.85 to -1.95), anxiety (-3.97) and depression (-9.58). The studies were heterogeneous, often unblinded, and lacked purity or potency testing. Insomnia score MD -2.90 (-3.85 to -1.95) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Insomnia symptoms, anxiety, depression Limitations: Not specific to lavender; heterogeneous; blinding problems; no independent testing of the oils. Funding and conflicts: No commercial or financial relationships declared. Registration: PROSPERO CRD42023455278 Read: abstract |
| Diaz 2016 Prepubertal gynecomastia and chronic lavender exposure: report of three cases. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab · PMID 26353172 · DOI |
Case reports |
3 Three boys with prepubertal gynecomastia and long-term lavender exposure |
Lavender (two used a lavender cologne, analysed in the lab) oil Not reported here chronic |
Three boys with prepubertal gynecomastia were chronically exposed to lavender; one cologne was analysed and contained lavender. The authors suggest looking for estrogenic exposures such as lavender in such children. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Presence of lavender; breast growth Limitations: Case reports only. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Dold 2023 Efficacy of Silexan in patients with anxiety disorders: a meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci · PMID 36717399 · DOI |
Meta analysis of 5 double blind placebo controlled trials |
1213 Adult outpatients with subthreshold anxiety, mixed anxiety and depressive disorder, or generalized anxiety disorder |
Silexan (a manufactured oral lavender oil capsule from Lavandula angustifolia, not bottled essential oil) flowering tops (oil) Not reported here 10 weeks · vs placebo |
After ten weeks Silexan beat placebo on the HAMA total score and on self-rated anxiety. Responder rate ratio (50% or more HAMA fall) was 1.34 and the rate ratio of much or very much improved on the CGI was 1.51. No significant differences in adverse events, serious adverse events or dropouts for adverse events. HAMA responder rate ratio 1.34; CGI much-improved rate ratio 1.51 Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA), self-rated anxiety, Clinical Global Impression, SF-36 Limitations: Only trials of one manufactured product; all five trials are linked to the maker's research programme. Funding and conflicts: Authors include an employee of Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH, which makes Silexan (affiliation listed in the record); several authors report consulting fees from Schwabe. Read: abstract |
| Donelli 2019 Effects of lavender on anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Phytomedicine · PMID 31655395 · DOI |
Systematic review and meta analysis (PRISMA, PROSPERO CRD42019130126) |
7993 65 randomized trials (7,993 people) and 25 non-randomized studies; 37 trials (3,964 people) in the pooled analysis |
Lavender in any form: inhaled oil, massage with the oil, oral Silexan oil Not reported here varied · vs any control |
Inhaled lavender lowered anxiety on any validated scale (Hedges g -0.73, 95% CI -1.00 to -0.46; 1,682 people). Oral Silexan lowered HAMA (mean difference -2.90; 1,173 people). Massage with lavender oil also lowered anxiety (g -0.66). Inhalation did not change systolic blood pressure. The authors say most trials had a high overall risk of bias and the inhalation trials were too varied to be sure. Inhalation: Hedges g -0.73 (-1.00 to -0.46) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Anxiety on validated scales Limitations: Low average quality; most trials high risk of bias; inhalation and massage trials very varied; massage trials cannot show the benefit is from lavender itself. Funding and conflicts: The review was not funded. Read: abstract |
| Doroshyenko 2013 Drug cocktail interaction study on the effect of the orally administered lavender oil preparation silexan on cytochrome P450 enzymes in healthy volunteers. Drug Metab Dispos · PMID 23401474 · DOI |
Randomized double blind two way crossover |
16 Healthy volunteers |
Silexan (a manufactured oral lavender oil capsule from Lavandula angustifolia, not bottled essential oil) flowering tops (oil) Not reported here 11 days · vs placebo |
Silexan had no clinically relevant effect on CYP1A2, 2C9, 2D6 or 3A4. For CYP2C19 one omeprazole measure fell outside the preset range, which the authors think is due to that drug's natural variability; their conclusion is no clinically relevant effect on all five enzymes. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Activity of five liver enzymes (CYP1A2, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 3A4) with test drugs Limitations: 16 healthy people on one product; not a test of every medicine or of inhaled or skin use. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Dos Reis Lucena 2021 Lavender essential oil on postmenopausal women with insomnia: Double-blind randomized trial. Complement Ther Med · PMID 33905827 · DOI |
Double blind randomized placebo controlled trial |
35 Postmenopausal women with insomnia (17 lavender, 18 placebo) |
Lavandula angustifolia essential oil, inhaled oil Not reported here 29 days · vs inhaled sunflower oil |
No significant difference between groups on the main outcome (P=0.22). Wake after sleep onset showed a tendency to improve (P=0.07). Both groups improved over time; the lavender group improved on several measures compared with its own baseline. The authors say weekly follow-up and sleep-hygiene advice were essential for both groups. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (primary); polysomnography, insomnia severity, anxiety, depression, menopausal symptoms Limitations: 35 women; main outcome not different from placebo; within-group changes are not proof of effect. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Registration: RBR-5q5t5z Read: abstract |
| Gastpar 2017 Silexan does not cause withdrawal symptoms even when abruptly discontinued. Int J Psychiatry Clin Pract · PMID 28319423 · DOI |
Randomized trial follow up phase (1 week) |
Adults with generalized anxiety disorder who finished a 10-week trial | Silexan (a manufactured oral lavender oil capsule from Lavandula angustifolia, not bottled essential oil) flowering tops (oil) Not reported here 1 week after stopping · vs placebo and paroxetine (tapered) |
Silexan was stopped abruptly. The median change in checklist score was 0.00 in all four groups, and no group showed withdrawal effects. The authors conclude there is no sign of dependency potential for this preparation. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Physician Withdrawal Checklist (PWC-20) Limitations: Follow-up of one trial, one week only, the same sponsor-linked research programme. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Hagvall 2008 Lavender oil lacks natural protection against autoxidation, forming strong contact allergens on air exposure. Contact Dermatitis · PMID 18759894 · DOI |
Laboratory chemistry, mouse assay and patch tests mouse / human patch test |
Lavender oil samples, mice, and patients already allergic to oxidized linalool | Lavender oil, fresh and air-exposed oil Not reported here |
The main terpenes (linalyl acetate, linalool, beta-caryophyllene) oxidized in the oil as fast as the pure compounds, and the oil's sensitizing strength rose with air exposure. Patients allergic to oxidized linalool reacted to air-exposed lavender oil. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Oxidation and skin sensitizing strength Limitations: Small mouse and patch-test experiments. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Hagvall 2016 Patch Testing with Main Sensitizers Does Not Detect All Cases of Contact Allergy to Oxidized Lavender Oil. Acta Derm Venereol · PMID 26671837 · DOI |
Consecutive patch test study |
Patients with suspected allergic contact dermatitis | Oxidized lavender oil 6% in petrolatum, oxidized linalyl acetate and linalool oil Not reported here |
Oxidized lavender oil gave positive reactions in 2.8% of patients. Of those, 56% reacted to oxidized linalool and/or linalyl acetate and 52% to the fragrance markers in the baseline series, so testing the main allergens alone misses some cases. Oxidized lavender oil was among the oils with the highest rates of contact allergy. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Frequency of positive patch tests Limitations: Patients already referred for suspected allergy. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Hawkins 2020 The relationship between lavender and tea tree essential oils and pediatric endocrine disorders: A systematic review of the literature. Complement Ther Med · PMID 32147050 · DOI |
Systematic review of case series |
11 4 papers describing 11 children with prepubertal gynecomastia or premature thelarche |
Lavender and tea tree essential oils oil Not reported here |
The authors found reporting of the cases to be insufficient. They found no evidence to support a link for tea tree oil and little to no evidence to support a link for lavender oil, and call for epidemiological research. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Strength of evidence for a causal link Limitations: Only case series exist, so cause cannot be judged. Funding and conflicts: No conflicts of interest declared. Read: abstract |
| Henley 2007 Prepubertal gynecomastia linked to lavender and tea tree oils. N Engl J Med · PMID 17267908 · DOI |
Case report (3 boys) plus cell line tests human cases / cell lines |
3 Three healthy prepubertal boys with breast growth |
Skin products containing lavender and tea tree oils oil Not reported here repeated topical use |
Breast growth resolved soon after the products were stopped, and in cell lines both oils had estrogen-like and anti-androgen activity. The authors concluded repeated exposure probably caused the condition in these boys. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Breast growth; estrogen and anti-androgen activity in cell lines Limitations: Three boys; the products also contained tea tree oil, so lavender cannot be separated out; later reviewers disagree on cause. Funding and conflicts: NIH intramural support noted in the record. Read: abstract |
| Kasper 2014 Lavender oil preparation Silexan is effective in generalized anxiety disorder--a randomized, double-blind comparison to placebo and paroxetine. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol · PMID 24456909 · DOI |
Randomized double blind double dummy trial |
539 Adults with generalized anxiety disorder (DSM-5 criteria, HAMA 18 or more) |
Silexan (a manufactured oral lavender oil capsule from Lavandula angustifolia, not bottled essential oil) flowering tops (oil) Not reported here 10 weeks · vs placebo and paroxetine |
HAMA fell by 14.1 points (Silexan, higher strength), 12.8 (Silexan, lower strength), 11.3 (paroxetine) and 9.5 (placebo). Both Silexan groups beat placebo (p<0.01); paroxetine only showed a trend in the main analysis (p=0.10). Adverse-event rates for Silexan were similar to placebo and lower than paroxetine. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: HAMA total score change Limitations: Ten weeks; one manufactured product; sponsor-linked. Funding and conflicts: Authors include an employee of Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH, which makes Silexan (affiliation listed in the record); several authors report consulting fees from Schwabe. Read: abstract |
| Kasper 2016 Efficacy of Silexan in mixed anxiety-depression--A randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol · PMID 26718792 · DOI |
Randomized double blind placebo controlled trial |
318 Adult outpatients with mixed anxiety and depressive disorder |
Silexan (a manufactured oral lavender oil capsule from Lavandula angustifolia, not bottled essential oil) flowering tops (oil) Not reported here 70 days · vs placebo |
HAMA fell by 10.8 points with Silexan and 8.4 with placebo; MADRS fell by 9.2 and 6.1 points (p<0.001). Eructation (burping) was the only adverse event clearly more common with Silexan. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: HAMA and MADRS total score changes Limitations: One trial; one product; the abstract reports a one-sided test for the HAMA result. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Kasper 2025 Lavender oil preparation Silexan is effective in mild-to-moderate major depression: a randomized, placebo- and reference-controlled trial. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci · PMID 38558147 · DOI |
Randomized double blind double dummy trial |
498 Adults with mild or moderate major depression (MADRS 19-34) |
Silexan (a manufactured oral lavender oil capsule from Lavandula angustifolia, not bottled essential oil) flowering tops (oil) Not reported here 56 days · vs placebo and sertraline |
After 8 weeks Silexan beat placebo by 2.17 MADRS points (95% CI 0.58 to 3.76) and sertraline beat placebo by 2.59 points (1.02 to 4.17). Silexan also improved the Sheehan Disability Scale (difference 2.40). Both were well tolerated; eructation was the most frequent Silexan side effect. MADRS difference vs placebo 2.17 points (0.58 to 3.76) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: MADRS total score change Limitations: One trial of eight weeks; differences from placebo are small (about 2 points); authors have Schwabe consulting links. Funding and conflicts: Authors report consulting and speaker links with Schwabe (conflict statement); trial registered EudraCT 2020-000688-22. Registration: EudraCT 2020-000688-22 Read: abstract |
| Mondal 2023 In Vitro Metabolism and CYP-Modulating Activity of Lavender Oil and Its Major Constituents. Molecules · PMID 36677813 · DOI |
Laboratory (human liver microsomes and cells) in vitro (human liver preparations) |
Human liver preparations and cell assays | Lavender essential oil, linalool, linalyl acetate oil Not reported here |
Lavender oil weakly inhibited CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 in the test tube (IC50 12.0 and 21.5 ug/mL). Linalyl acetate inhibited CYP3A4 (IC50 4.75 ug/mL); linalool did not inhibit. Linalyl acetate turned into linalool in the liver preparations. The authors suggest little potential to change how medicines act. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Enzyme inhibition (CYP3A4, CYP1A2), PXR and AhR activation Limitations: Test-tube study only; not tested in people. Funding and conflicts: No conflict of interest declared. Read: abstract |
| Nouira 2024 Aromatherapy Using Lavender Oil Effectiveness on Pain and Anxiety After C-Section: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Epidemiol Glob Health · PMID 39400653 · DOI |
Randomized double blind placebo controlled trial |
100 Women after caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia (50 lavender, 50 distilled-water placebo) |
Lavender essential oil, inhaled oil Not reported here single session (outcomes after the intervention) · vs distilled water |
Afterwards, scores were lower in the lavender group than the placebo group for pain at rest (23.8 vs 38.8 on the scale used), pain after moving (40.1 vs 60.3) and anxiety (44.3 vs 46.8); p<0.001, <0.001 and 0.03. No adverse effects were reported in either group. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Pain at rest, pain after moving, anxiety Limitations: One centre, 100 women; the anxiety difference is small; scent is hard to blind even against water. Funding and conflicts: Authors declare no competing interests. Registration: NCT06387849 Read: abstract |
| O'Connor 2013 A randomized, controlled cross-over trial of dermally-applied lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) oil as a treatment of agitated behaviour in dementia. BMC Complement Altern Med · PMID 24219098 · DOI |
Randomized single blind cross over trial |
64 Nursing-home residents with dementia and frequent physically agitated behaviour |
Lavandula angustifolia essential oil, applied to skin (30% high-purity) oil Not reported here observed for 60 minutes after each application · vs inactive control oil |
Lavender oil was not better than the control oil at reducing agitated behaviours or improving mood. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Counts of agitated behaviours and observed mood Limitations: One setting; short observation; single application strength. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Registration: ACTRN12609000569202 Read: abstract |
| Ramsey 2019 Lavender Products Associated With Premature Thelarche and Prepubertal Gynecomastia: Case Reports and Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Activities. J Clin Endocrinol Metab · PMID 31393563 · DOI |
Case reports plus laboratory cell tests human cases / human cell lines |
4 Three girls with premature breast development and one boy with prepubertal gynecomastia, all exposed to lavender-fragranced products |
Lavender-containing products, and eight components of lavender and other oils in human cell lines oil Not reported here |
Breast growth went away in all four children when the products were stopped. Some components showed estrogen-like and anti-androgen activity in cells. The authors say it is unknown whether lavender oil is strong enough to cause these effects. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Breast growth after stopping products; estrogen and androgen receptor activity in cells Limitations: Four cases, no control group; cell tests do not prove an effect in the body. Funding and conflicts: Records note NIH intramural research support. Read: abstract |
| Ren 2025 Inhalation Aromatherapy With Lavender for Postoperative Pain Management: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Pain Manag Nurs · PMID 40187937 · DOI |
Systematic review of randomized trials (GRADE used) |
15 randomized trials in adults after surgery (mostly cardiac or abdominal) | Lavender essential oil, inhaled oil Not reported here pain checked at 5, 30 and 60 minutes · vs control |
Inhaled lavender significantly reduced postoperative pain scores in adults. Three trials reported less pain medicine use and three found no effect, so the authors call the evidence insufficient on pain-medicine use. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Postoperative pain score; analgesic use Limitations: The abstract gives no pooled number; short follow-up; scent is hard to blind. Funding and conflicts: No competing interests declared. Read: abstract |
| Sköld 2008 Autoxidation of linalyl acetate, the main component of lavender oil, creates potent contact allergens. Contact Dermatitis · PMID 18154552 · DOI |
Laboratory chemistry and mouse lymph node assay mouse / lab |
Lab samples and mice | Linalyl acetate (main lavender oil component), fresh and air-oxidized Not reported here up to 10 weeks of air exposure |
Air exposure formed hydroperoxides, an epoxide and an alcohol. Pure linalyl acetate was a weak sensitizer (EC3 25%); after 10 weeks of air exposure it was much stronger (EC3 3.6%). Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Oxidation products and sensitizing strength Limitations: Mouse and chemistry study of a single compound. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Wang 2024 Aromatherapy for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Tzu Chi Med J · PMID 38993833 · DOI |
Systematic review and meta analysis (GRADE used) |
11 studies, 8 randomized trials in the pooled analysis; surgical patients | Inhaled aromatherapy: ginger, lavender and peppermint among the oils oil Not reported here varied · vs control |
Aromatherapy reduced nausea severity (SMD -0.93, 95% CI -1.64 to -0.22) but the fall in vomiting episodes was not statistically significant (SMD -0.81, -1.98 to 0.37). Ginger, lavender and peppermint were singled out in subgroups. The authors rated the certainty of evidence as low because of heterogeneity and possible bias. Nausea severity SMD -0.93 (-1.64 to -0.22) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Postoperative nausea severity and vomiting episodes Limitations: Low-certainty evidence; many oils pooled; lavender not tested alone in the abstract. Funding and conflicts: No conflicts of interest declared. Read: abstract |
| Watson 2019 A randomised controlled trial of Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia) and Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis) essential oils for the treatment of agitated behaviour in older people with and without dementia. Complement Ther Med · PMID 30670268 · DOI |
Randomized counterbalanced crossover trial |
49 Nursing-home residents with agitation (39 with dementia, 10 without) |
Lavender and lemon balm essential oils oil Not reported here 2 weeks each with 2-week washouts · vs sunflower oil placebo |
There was no reduction in agitation with either oil compared with placebo, in either group. Within subgroups the oils seemed to act in opposite directions (lemon balm helped residents without dementia, lavender helped one agitation score in dementia), which the authors report as a difference between groups. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Neuropsychiatric Inventory and Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory Limitations: Small; subgroup findings are exploratory. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Woelk 2010 A multi-center, double-blind, randomised study of the Lavender oil preparation Silexan in comparison to Lorazepam for generalized anxiety disorder. Phytomedicine · PMID 19962288 · DOI |
Multicentre double blind randomized comparison |
Adults with generalized anxiety disorder | Silexan (a manufactured oral lavender oil capsule from Lavandula angustifolia, not bottled essential oil) flowering tops (oil) Not reported here 6 weeks · vs lorazepam (no placebo group) |
HAM-A fell by 11.3 points (45%) with Silexan and 11.6 points (46%) with lorazepam, from about 25 at the start. The authors conclude Silexan was as effective as lorazepam and note no sedation in their study. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: HAM-A total score Limitations: No placebo group, so it cannot show either treatment beat placebo; the abstract does not give the number of people. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Xu 2024 Effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality in older adults: A meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) · PMID 39654196 · DOI |
Meta analysis of randomized trials |
Older adults in randomized trials of aromatherapy (several scents and methods) | Aromatherapy of several kinds; lavender alone in a subgroup oil Not reported here under 4 weeks in the strongest subgroup · vs control |
Overall, sleep quality improved (SMD -1.02, 95% CI -1.38 to -0.66). The subgroup with lavender as the only scent did better (SMD -1.39, -2.06 to -0.72), as did non-inhaled use (SMD -1.73) and courses under 4 weeks. The authors say the effect on anxiety needs more evaluation. Sleep quality SMD -1.02 overall; -1.39 lavender alone (-1.38 to -0.66) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Sleep quality Limitations: Many scents and methods pooled; subgroup results are less reliable than the main result. Funding and conflicts: No conflicts of interest declared. Read: abstract |
| n/a 2014 EMA Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC): Lavandulae aetheroleum, herbal medicinal product, public summary (page read 2026-10-25; page shows last updated 16/06/2014) n/a · Source |
Regulator herbal overview n/a |
n/a | n/a |
Lavender oil is obtained by passing steam through the flowering tops of Lavandula angustifolia Mill. The HMPC concluded, on the basis of long-standing use, that lavender oil medicines can be used for relief of mild symptoms of mental stress and exhaustion and to aid sleep, in adults and children over 12. The conclusion rests on traditional use because clinical trial evidence is insufficient: studies were too small to establish an effect. At the time there were no major safety concerns, with few and mild side effects including very rare allergic reactions. People with open wounds, skin problems, high fever, severe infections or severe heart and circulation problems should not have full baths with lavender oil. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Traditional use and safety Read: full-text |
| n/a 2025 NCCIH (US National Institutes of Health): Lavender, Usefulness and Safety (page read 2026-10-25; page says Last Updated: February 2025) n/a · Source |
Regulator / government health page n/a |
n/a | n/a |
Says an oral lavender oil product might help anxiety (including anxiety with depression), with small samples and a lack of independent funding and testing. It is unclear whether lavender aromatherapy helps anxiety, stress, depression, some types of pain, sleep quality or insomnia. Oral products might be safe short term; side effects include diarrhea, headache, nausea or burping. Aromatherapy is considered possibly safe but may cause headache or coughing. Topical products may cause allergic skin reactions. A few cases of breast tissue swelling in children are reported but it is unclear lavender caused them. There are theoretical reasons lavender might interact with some sedative drugs or herbs, which matters before surgery. Little is known about safety in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Evidence summary and safety Read: full-text |
| n/a 2026 Poison Control (US): Essential oils, poisonous when misused (page read 2026-10-25) n/a · Source |
Poison centre education page n/a |
n/a | n/a |
Describes an 18-month-old boy who swallowed a small amount of lavender extract used as a home fragrance, became extremely drowsy and confused about three hours later, had an abnormal EEG, and was back to normal in about 6 hours (cited from Landelle et al., 2008; that paper was not read). Says aspirating an essential oil can cause pneumonia, children have thin skin and immature livers, essential oil products are not well regulated so species, concentration and contaminants can be unknown, essential oils may interact with medications, and diluting in a carrier oil is the best way to avoid a bad reaction on skin. Advises keeping bottles locked away from children and pets. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Poisoning risk Read: full-text |
| n/a 2026 ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Lavender (toxic and non-toxic plants listing, page read 2026-10-25) n/a · Source |
Veterinary poison centre plant listing n/a |
n/a | n/a |
Lists lavender (Lavendula angustifolia, as spelled on the page) as toxic to dogs, cats and horses. Toxic principles named: linalool and linalyl acetate. Signs: nausea, vomiting (not in horses) and loss of appetite. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Pet toxicity of the plant Limitations: Listing is for the plant; the page does not describe diffused or concentrated oil. Read: full-text |
| n/a 2026 NIEHS (US National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences): Essential Oils (page read 2026-10-25) n/a · Source |
Government research programme page n/a |
n/a | n/a |
Says lavender and tea tree oil may act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, that clinical research found a possible link between topical essential oil use and breast tissue growth in prepubertal boys, and that NIEHS scientists tested the pure oils and eight components (including linalool and linalyl acetate) on human cell lines in test tubes and found a range of hormonal activities. Notes that essential oil composition varies within a plant species. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Hormone-activity research Limitations: Cell-line work; the page does not give a causal conclusion for children. Read: full-text |
| n/a 2026 GBIF Backbone Taxonomy: Lavandula angustifolia Mill., species key 2927305 (GBIF match API, read 2026-10-25) n/a · Source |
Registry or database n/a |
n/a | n/a |
Accepted species name Lavandula angustifolia Mill., family Lamiaceae, order Lamiales, kingdom Plantae (match type exact). Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Accepted name and family Read: full-text |
| n/a 2026 PubChem: Linalool, CID 6549 (PUG REST API, read 2026-10-25) n/a · Source |
Chemical registry n/a |
n/a | n/a |
Linalool, C10H18O, molecular weight 154.25, IUPAC name 3,7-dimethylocta-1,6-dien-3-ol. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Identity Read: full-text |
| n/a 2026 PubChem: Linalyl acetate, CID 8294 (PUG REST API, read 2026-10-25) n/a · Source |
Chemical registry n/a |
n/a | n/a |
Linalyl acetate, C12H20O2, molecular weight 196.29, IUPAC name 3,7-dimethylocta-1,6-dien-3-yl acetate. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Identity Read: full-text |
| n/a 2026 PubChem: (-)-Caryophyllene (beta-caryophyllene), CID 5281515 (PUG REST API, read 2026-10-25) n/a · Source |
Chemical registry n/a |
n/a | n/a |
Caryophyllene, C15H24, molecular weight 204.35. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Identity Read: full-text |
What we do not know yet
- What the evidence supports: the capsule is moderate for anxiety; scent and sleep are low; dementia agitation is against.
- No trial of plain bottled lavender oil swallowed or put on the skin for anxiety was found.
- No oil-specific veterinary source for cats or dogs.
- No study of pregnancy, breastfeeding or newborns.
- No LiverTox, LactMed or FDA statement was read.
How new research is added
New studies are found by a saved PubMed search and are placed in a review queue. A person reads each one before it is added.
Lab markers
What changed in blood or saliva tests during trials. A changed number is not the same as feeling or being healthier, and we give no "normal ranges".
Other 6
Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA) score
Decrease in trials
A clinician-rated score of anxiety severity; higher means more severe.
Moderate certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Main outcome in the capsule trials.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
A symptom score, not a lab marker, but widely used in anxiety trials.
Safety implication
A fall in score does not show the oil is safe for everyone.
Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) score
Decrease in trials
A clinician-rated score of depression severity.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Main outcome in the depression trials.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Small gaps from placebo in single trials.
Safety implication
Not applicable.
Sleep quality scores (for example the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index)
Improve in trials
Self-reported questionnaires about how well people slept.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Main outcome in sleep trials.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Self-reported and open to expectation effects.
Safety implication
Not applicable.
Counts of agitated behaviours
No change in trials
Observers counted how often residents showed physically agitated behaviour.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
To test lavender oil for dementia agitation.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Objective counting, but one small trial.
Safety implication
Not applicable.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 | No difference between lavender oil and the control oil in the frequency of agitated behaviours or in mood. |
Pain score after surgery
Decrease in trials
A self-rated number for how much pain someone feels.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Main outcome in the surgery trials.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Self-rated and measured soon after the scent.
Safety implication
Not applicable.
Postoperative nausea severity
Decrease in trials
A rating of how bad nausea is after an operation.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Safety
What studies and official sources say about side effects, medicines and who should check first. Each point shows what kind of evidence it comes from.
Main points to know 4
- Do not swallow lavender essential oil. A toddler became very drowsy and confused after a small amount.. Poison Control describes an 18-month-old who swallowed a small amount of lavender extract used as a home fragrance and became extremely drowsy and confused within about three hours. He recovered in about six hours. The same page warns that breathing an essential oil into the lungs while swallowing can cause pneumonia, and that children have thin skin and immature livers. Keep bottles out of sight and reach of children and pets. The capsule studied in anxiety trials is a manufactured medicine-style product, not bottled oil. Case report 30 29
- Lavender oil is a known skin allergen, and old, air-exposed oil is worse.. In a French series, all 42 people with allergic contact dermatitis from their own essential oils were sensitized to the oil they used, mostly lavender, tea tree and ravintsara; 8 needed hospital care. In an Australian skin clinic, 2.2% of 2,178 patch-tested patients reacted to lavender. Lab work shows lavender oil has no natural protection against air oxidation, and the oxidation products are much stronger allergens than fresh oil. NCCIH says skin products with lavender may cause allergic reactions. Poison Control says to stop at once if a rash appears and to wash the oil off. Case series 1 2 23 11 12 29 30
- Cats, dogs and horses: the lavender plant is listed as toxic.. The ASPCA lists lavender as toxic to dogs, cats and horses, naming linalool and linalyl acetate and the signs nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. That listing is for the plant. We found no source on diffused or concentrated oil, so keep oils away from pets and ask a vet. Regulatory 31
- Breast growth in a few children: reported, but cause is unproven.. Case reports since 2007 describe a few boys with breast tissue growth and a few girls with early breast development who used products with lavender (and sometimes tea tree) oil; it went away when products were stopped. In cell tests some components showed estrogen-like and anti-androgen activity. A 2020 systematic review of four papers (11 cases) found little to no evidence for a link with lavender and called the reporting insufficient. NCCIH and NIEHS describe the reports and say cause is unclear. Ask a paediatrician before using lavender products on children. Case series 14 21 5 13 3 32 29
Side effects 5
| Effect | How often | Severity and recovery | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allergic skin reaction (contact dermatitis) Clinic populations, so these are not general-public rates. Fresh oil also sensitizes; air-exposed oil more so. | 2.2% of 2,178 patch-tested clinic patients (Australia); 2.8% reacted to oxidized lavender oil in a consecutive patch-test series of patients with suspected allergy | mild to severe (8 of 42 needed hospital care in the French series) Usually clears when the product is stopped; not stated in the abstracts | Case series 2 12 1 |
| Headache or coughing when the oil is smelled NCCIH lists these for aromatherapy. | Not established | mild Not stated | Regulatory 29 |
| Diarrhea, headache, nausea or burping with oral lavender products These apply to oral lavender products such as the capsule, not to swallowing essential oil from a bottle. | Burping was the only adverse event clearly more common than placebo in the mixed anxiety-depression trial (318 people). | mild Not stated | RCT 29 16 17 |
| Drowsiness and confusion after swallowing Original paper (Landelle 2008) not read. | One toddler case described by Poison Control | serious in a toddler; recovered in about 6 hours Recovered, EEG normal the next day | Case report 30 |
| No withdrawal after stopping the capsule Capsule product, GAD trial follow-up, one week only. | None seen in a one-week follow-up | n/a n/a | RCT 10 |
Liver
We did not find liver injury described for lavender oil in the sources we read. A LiverTox record was looked for and not found, so none was read. Poison Control says children may be more sensitive because of immature livers. 30
How often. Not established.
This is a safety connection. It is not evidence that Lavender Oil supports liver health.
Medicines and supplements 4
| With | Why it matters | Importance | Evidence | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedative medicines and herbs, and anaesthesia sedatives | Theoretical: lavender may add to sedation. | NCCIH says there are theoretical reasons lavender might interact with some sedative drugs or herbs, which matters before surgery. No case or trial was found in the sources read. | Theoretical Not enough evidence 29 | Tell the surgical team and your pharmacist about any lavender product before an operation. |
| Medicines handled by liver enzymes (CYP1A2, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 3A4), oral capsule liver-enzyme-medicines | In 16 healthy volunteers taking the capsule for 11 days, no clinically relevant effect on these enzymes was found with five test drugs. | The study reassures for the capsule only; it did not test every medicine, bottled oil, or inhaled or skin use. | RCT Low certainty 8 | Ask a pharmacist if you take regular medicines. |
| Medicines handled by CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 (test-tube result) liver-enzyme-medicines | Lavender oil weakly inhibited CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 in human liver preparations; linalyl acetate inhibited CYP3A4; linalool did not. | Test-tube only. The authors suggest little potential to change how medicines act. | Laboratory research Very low certainty 18 | Not a reason for action, but mention lavender products to a pharmacist. |
| Other medicines (general warning for essential oils) general | Not specific to lavender. | Poison Control says essential oils may interact with medications. | Regulatory Not enough evidence 30 | Ask a pharmacist. |
Who should check first 5
| Situation | Advice | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Swallowing essential oil, especially by or near children | Do not swallow. If a child or pet may have swallowed any essential oil, call poison control (US: 1-800-222-1222) or your emergency number. | Case report 30 |
| Open wounds, skin problems, high fever, severe infections or severe heart and circulation problems (full baths with lavender oil) | The EMA says these people should not have full baths with lavender oil. | Regulatory 28 |
| Known allergy to lavender or fragrance, or a history of reacting to essential oils | Avoid. About half of the people who reacted to oxidized lavender oil in one series also reacted to fragrance markers. | Case series 1 12 |
| Children | The EMA limits its lavender oil medicines to adults and children over 12. Ask a paediatric clinician before any lavender product on a child, especially skin products used often. | Regulatory 28 29 30 |
| Before surgery or while taking sedatives | Mention it to your team: a sedation interaction is possible in theory. | Theoretical 29 |
Overdose, product quality and regulators
Summary. Toxicity is described by one toddler poisoning case (Poison Control) and by the ASPCA plant listing for pets. No lethal amount is established in the sources read and none is stated here.
Amounts. No safe amount is established, and this page gives none.
Onset and course. In the toddler case, signs began about three hours after swallowing and settled in about six hours.
Repeated use. Repeated skin use has been linked to allergy and to the children's breast-growth case reports.
Animal data. Pets: lavender plant listed as toxic to dogs, cats and horses (ASPCA). Oil-specific veterinary guidance was not found.
Toxic parts. The oil is the concentrated form. Linalool and linalyl acetate are the principles the ASPCA names for pets.
Not read. The original toddler paper (Landelle 2008), veterinary papers on oil in cats and dogs, and any asthma or lung studies were not read.
Essential oil products are not well regulated, so what is in the bottle can differ from the label. Lavender oil also oxidizes with air.
Unknown species, strength and contaminants. Poison Control says it can be hard to know what species of plant, what concentration of active ingredient, or whether contaminants are in an essential oil bottle. 30
Oxidation on air exposure. Lavender oil's main terpenes (linalyl acetate, linalool, beta-caryophyllene) oxidize in air at the same rate as pure compounds, and the oil becomes a stronger skin sensitizer as it does. 11 23
Composition varies. NIEHS says an essential oil's chemical composition may vary within the same plant species. 32
| Body | Action | Date |
|---|---|---|
| EMA Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC) (European Union) | Lavender oil (Lavandulae aetheroleum) medicines can be used, on the basis of long-standing use, for relief of mild symptoms of mental stress and exhaustion and to aid sleep, in adults and children over 12. Trials were too small to establish an effect. No major safety concerns at the time. Not for full baths with open wounds, skin problems, high fever, severe infections or severe heart and circulation problems. source | 2014-06-16 |
| NCCIH (US National Institutes of Health) (United States) | States that more high-quality research is needed; oral lavender might be safe short term; aromatherapy possibly safe but may cause headache or coughing; topical products may cause allergic reactions; theoretical sedative interactions; little known in pregnancy and breastfeeding. source | 2025-02 |
| Poison Control (US) (United States) | General essential-oil warning with a lavender toddler case: keep out of reach of children and pets; stop and wash off if a rash appears. source | n/a |
| NIEHS (US) (United States) | Says lavender and tea tree oil may act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals and describes the cell-line research on their components. source | n/a |
When to get medical help
- If a child or pet may have swallowed any essential oil, call poison control straight away (US: Poison Help 1-800-222-1222) or your local emergency number. Do not make them vomit.
- Trouble breathing, collapse, a seizure, or being very hard to wake: call emergency services at once.
- Choking or coughing while swallowing oil, then fever or breathing trouble later (possible oil in the lungs): get medical help.
- A spreading rash, blistering, swelling of the face or lips after using a lavender product: stop, wash the area, and get medical help.
Stop using the product and contact a clinician or emergency service. In the US, Poison Control is 1-800-222-1222.
General information only, not medical advice. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before use, especially with medicines, in pregnancy or with a health condition. See the Natural Remedy Safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is lavender oil safe to swallow?
No. We do not advise swallowing essential oil from a bottle. Poison Control describes a toddler who became extremely drowsy and confused after swallowing a small amount of lavender extract. The capsule tested in anxiety trials is a manufactured medicine-style product, not bottled oil. If a child or pet may have swallowed any essential oil, call poison control (US: 1-800-222-1222) or your emergency number.
Does lavender oil help anxiety?
Does lavender oil help you sleep?
Can lavender oil cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. It is a known skin allergen. In an Australian clinic, 2.2% of patch-tested patients reacted to lavender, and in a French series of people allergic to their own essential oils, lavender was the most common cause. Air-exposed oil is a stronger allergen. Stop at once if a rash appears and wash the oil off.
Is lavender oil safe for children?
Ask a paediatric clinician first. The EMA limits its lavender oil medicines to adults and children over 12, and Poison Control notes children have thin skin and immature livers. A few cases of breast tissue growth in children have been reported with lavender products, though cause is unproven.
Does lavender oil cause breast growth in boys?
A few cases of breast growth in boys, and early breast development in girls, have been reported with lavender and tea tree products, and it went away when they were stopped. In cell tests some components showed estrogen-like activity. A 2020 systematic review found little to no evidence for a link with lavender, and a 2023 review says cause cannot be concluded.
Is lavender oil safe for cats and dogs?
The ASPCA lists the lavender plant as toxic to dogs, cats and horses, with nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. We found no source on diffused or concentrated oil, so keep oils out of reach of pets and ask a vet.
Is lavender oil safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Unknown. NCCIH says little is known about its safety in pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Ask your midwife or doctor.
Does lavender oil interact with medicines?
NCCIH says there are theoretical reasons it might add to sedative drugs or herbs, which matters before surgery. In 16 healthy volunteers the capsule had no clinically relevant effect on five liver enzymes, and test-tube work found only weak effects. Tell your pharmacist and your surgical team about lavender products.
Does lavender oil help with pain or nausea after surgery?
What does the European Medicines Agency say about lavender oil?
It accepts lavender oil medicines for mild stress and tiredness and to aid sleep, in adults and children over 12, on the basis of long-standing use rather than trials. It said the studies it looked at were too small to show an effect. People with open wounds, skin problems, high fever, severe infections or severe heart and circulation problems should not have full baths with lavender oil.
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Editorial transparency
- Written by
- AlternativeMed editorial team. Research compiled with AI assistance, then checked against PubMed records.
- Medical review
- None. This page has not been reviewed by a physician or pharmacist.
- First published
- 2026-10-25
- Last substantive update
- 2026-10-25
- How we research
- We read the abstracts of 27 PubMed papers and the NCCIH, EMA, Poison Control, ASPCA and NIEHS pages, checked the plant name in GBIF and the compounds in PubChem. We did not find or read a LiverTox, LactMed or FDA statement.
- How we rate evidence
- See "How we rate evidence" in the Evidence tab.
- Independence
- No product is promoted on this page. No affiliate links are shown. Studies linked to the maker of the Silexan capsule are labelled.
Sources 36
Each source was opened and checked. Where we read only the abstract, it says so. The small numbers in the text point here.
- Barbaud A, Kurihara F, Raison-Peyron N, et al. Allergic contact dermatitis from essential oil in consumer products: Mode of uses and value of patch tests with an essential oil series. Results of a French study of the DAG.. Contact Dermatitis. 2023. PMID 37403438. DOI 10.1111/cod.14377. (abstract)
- Bingham LJ, Tam MM, Palmer AM, et al. Contact allergy and allergic contact dermatitis caused by lavender: A retrospective study from an Australian clinic.. Contact Dermatitis. 2019. PMID 30779160. DOI 10.1111/cod.13247. (abstract)
- Braunstein EW, Braunstein GD. Are Prepubertal Gynaecomastia and Premature Thelarche Linked to Topical Lavender and Tea Tree Oil Use?. touchREV Endocrinol. 2023. PMID 38187077. DOI 10.17925/EE.2023.19.2.9. (abstract)
- Chen HB, Zhang YD, Qin Y, et al. Inhalation aromatherapy for the treatment of comorbid insomnia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.. Front Psychiatry. 2025. PMID 40230824. DOI 10.3389/fpsyt.2025.1485693. (abstract)
- Diaz A, Luque L, Badar Z, et al. Prepubertal gynecomastia and chronic lavender exposure: report of three cases.. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab. 2016. PMID 26353172. DOI 10.1515/jpem-2015-0248. (abstract)
- Dold M, Bartova L, Volz HP, et al. Efficacy of Silexan in patients with anxiety disorders: a meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials.. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2023. PMID 36717399. DOI 10.1007/s00406-022-01547-w. (abstract)
- Donelli D, Antonelli M, Bellinazzi C, et al. Effects of lavender on anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis.. Phytomedicine. 2019. PMID 31655395. DOI 10.1016/j.phymed.2019.153099. (abstract)
- Doroshyenko O, Rokitta D, Zadoyan G, et al. Drug cocktail interaction study on the effect of the orally administered lavender oil preparation silexan on cytochrome P450 enzymes in healthy volunteers.. Drug Metab Dispos. 2013. PMID 23401474. DOI 10.1124/dmd.112.050203. (abstract)
- Dos Reis Lucena L, Dos Santos-Junior JG, Tufik S, et al. Lavender essential oil on postmenopausal women with insomnia: Double-blind randomized trial.. Complement Ther Med. 2021. PMID 33905827. DOI 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102726. (abstract)
- Gastpar M, Müller WE, Volz HP, et al. Silexan does not cause withdrawal symptoms even when abruptly discontinued.. Int J Psychiatry Clin Pract. 2017. PMID 28319423. DOI 10.1080/13651501.2017.1301488. (abstract)
- Hagvall L, Sköld M, Bråred-Christensson J, et al. Lavender oil lacks natural protection against autoxidation, forming strong contact allergens on air exposure.. Contact Dermatitis. 2008. PMID 18759894. DOI 10.1111/j.1600-0536.2008.01402.x. (abstract)
- Hagvall L, Christensson JB. Patch Testing with Main Sensitizers Does Not Detect All Cases of Contact Allergy to Oxidized Lavender Oil.. Acta Derm Venereol. 2016. PMID 26671837. DOI 10.2340/00015555-2319. (abstract)
- Hawkins J, Hires C, Dunne E, et al. The relationship between lavender and tea tree essential oils and pediatric endocrine disorders: A systematic review of the literature.. Complement Ther Med. 2020. PMID 32147050. DOI 10.1016/j.ctim.2019.102288. (abstract)
- Henley DV, Lipson N, Korach KS, et al. Prepubertal gynecomastia linked to lavender and tea tree oils.. N Engl J Med. 2007. PMID 17267908. DOI 10.1056/NEJMoa064725. (abstract)
- Kasper S, Gastpar M, Müller WE, et al. Lavender oil preparation Silexan is effective in generalized anxiety disorder--a randomized, double-blind comparison to placebo and paroxetine.. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol. 2014. PMID 24456909. DOI 10.1017/S1461145714000017. (abstract)
- Kasper S, Volz HP, Dienel A, et al. Efficacy of Silexan in mixed anxiety-depression--A randomized, placebo-controlled trial.. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2016. PMID 26718792. DOI 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2015.12.002. (abstract)
- Kasper S, Volz HP, Möller HJ, et al. Lavender oil preparation Silexan is effective in mild-to-moderate major depression: a randomized, placebo- and reference-controlled trial.. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2025. PMID 38558147. DOI 10.1007/s00406-024-01783-2. (abstract)
- Mondal G, Dale OR, Wang YH, et al. In Vitro Metabolism and CYP-Modulating Activity of Lavender Oil and Its Major Constituents.. Molecules. 2023. PMID 36677813. DOI 10.3390/molecules28020755. (abstract)
- Nouira M, Souayeh N, Kanzari SA, et al. Aromatherapy Using Lavender Oil Effectiveness on Pain and Anxiety After C-Section: A Randomized Controlled Trial.. J Epidemiol Glob Health. 2024. PMID 39400653. DOI 10.1007/s44197-024-00305-6. (abstract)
- O'Connor DW, Eppingstall B, Taffe J, et al. A randomized, controlled cross-over trial of dermally-applied lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) oil as a treatment of agitated behaviour in dementia.. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2013. PMID 24219098. DOI 10.1186/1472-6882-13-315. (abstract)
- Ramsey JT, Li Y, Arao Y, et al. Lavender Products Associated With Premature Thelarche and Prepubertal Gynecomastia: Case Reports and Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Activities.. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2019. PMID 31393563. DOI 10.1210/jc.2018-01880. (abstract)
- Ren Y, Xiang Y, Li Z, et al. Inhalation Aromatherapy With Lavender for Postoperative Pain Management: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.. Pain Manag Nurs. 2025. PMID 40187937. DOI 10.1016/j.pmn.2025.03.005. (abstract)
- Sköld M, Hagvall L, Karlberg AT. Autoxidation of linalyl acetate, the main component of lavender oil, creates potent contact allergens.. Contact Dermatitis. 2008. PMID 18154552. DOI 10.1111/j.1600-0536.2007.01262.x. (abstract)
- Wang JY, Huang HY, Chu WO, et al. Aromatherapy for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting: A systematic review and meta-analysis.. Tzu Chi Med J. 2024. PMID 38993833. DOI 10.4103/tcmj.tcmj_240_23. (abstract)
- Watson K, Hatcher D, Good A. A randomised controlled trial of Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia) and Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis) essential oils for the treatment of agitated behaviour in older people with and without dementia.. Complement Ther Med. 2019. PMID 30670268. DOI 10.1016/j.ctim.2018.12.016. (abstract)
- Woelk H, Schläfke S. A multi-center, double-blind, randomised study of the Lavender oil preparation Silexan in comparison to Lorazepam for generalized anxiety disorder.. Phytomedicine. 2010. PMID 19962288. DOI 10.1016/j.phymed.2009.10.006. (abstract)
- Xu K, Wang S, Ji Q, et al. Effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality in older adults: A meta-analysis.. Medicine (Baltimore). 2024. PMID 39654196. DOI 10.1097/MD.0000000000040688. (abstract)
- n/a. EMA Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC): Lavandulae aetheroleum, herbal medicinal product, public summary (page read 2026-10-25; page shows last updated 16/06/2014). n/a. 2014. (full-text)
- n/a. NCCIH (US National Institutes of Health): Lavender, Usefulness and Safety (page read 2026-10-25; page says Last Updated: February 2025). n/a. 2025. (full-text)
- n/a. Poison Control (US): Essential oils, poisonous when misused (page read 2026-10-25). n/a. 2026. (full-text)
- n/a. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Lavender (toxic and non-toxic plants listing, page read 2026-10-25). n/a. 2026. (full-text)
- n/a. NIEHS (US National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences): Essential Oils (page read 2026-10-25). n/a. 2026. (full-text)
- n/a. GBIF Backbone Taxonomy: Lavandula angustifolia Mill., species key 2927305 (GBIF match API, read 2026-10-25). n/a. 2026. (full-text)
- n/a. PubChem: Linalool, CID 6549 (PUG REST API, read 2026-10-25). n/a. 2026. (full-text)
- n/a. PubChem: Linalyl acetate, CID 8294 (PUG REST API, read 2026-10-25). n/a. 2026. (full-text)
- n/a. PubChem: (-)-Caryophyllene (beta-caryophyllene), CID 5281515 (PUG REST API, read 2026-10-25). n/a. 2026. (full-text)
Where to buy
Check the label first. Whatever you buy, look for these:
- The botanical (Latin) name on the label and 100% pure oil
- A dark glass bottle and a batch number
- Essential oils are strong: dilute for skin, and do not swallow unless a qualified professional directs it
- Keep away from children and pets
Talk to a pharmacist or doctor before you start any supplement, especially if you take medicines. See the Safety tab for interactions.
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