Lavender products may help with anxiety and depression by interacting with the nervous system to promote relaxation, potentially by affecting serotonin and calcium channels, and may increase parasympathetic tone which calms the body’s stress response. Evidence supports lavender’s anxiolytic effects through aromatherapy, oral consumption, or topical massage, with some studies showing benefits comparable to standard treatments for mild to moderate depression.
Nervous System Regulation
Lavender is thought to calm the nervous system by affecting the parasympathetic nervous system, which regulates processes like heart rate, breathing, and hormone secretion.
Neurochemical Effects
Active compounds in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, may reduce activity in brain areas and neurotransmitter systems involved in mood and anxiety, including voltage-gated calcium channels and the serotonin system.
Aromatherapy
Inhaling lavender essential oil sends signals to the brain's emotional center, the amygdala, which can reduce feelings of nervousness and anxiety.
Aromatherapy
Using lavender essential oil in a diffuser can help reduce anxiety and improve mood.
Oral Consumption
Taking specific oral formulations of lavender (like Silexan) has been shown to be effective in managing anxiety and improving mood, potentially with comparable effects to some antidepressant medications for mild to moderate cases.
Massage
Massaging with lavender oil, especially in foot baths, has demonstrated a significant anxiolytic effect, according to a review article on ScienceDirect.
Studies and meta-analyses have confirmed the significant anti-anxiety effects of lavender through various methods of administration.
Lavender has been shown to be a beneficial complementary treatment for mild to moderate depression, with some studies finding similar effects to antidepressant drugs like fluoxetine.
Lavender's calming effects also contribute to improved sleep quality, which is beneficial for both anxiety and depression.
*Important Considerations*
The effectiveness of lavender products can vary depending on the specific product formulation (e.g., essential oil, oral supplement) and the method of delivery.