Lavender for Anxiety: The Best Way to Use This Calming Herb (Part 1)

Lavender has long been known for its floral aroma and attractive purple color.

As well as looking and smelling lovely, lavender has a long history of being used in medicine. More recently, the plant is increasingly used to manage symptoms of anxiety.

The science

Lavender is renowned for its ability to create a relaxing atmosphere.

Lavender essential oil has been found to be effective in reducing:

• anxiety

• restlessness

• agitation

• disturbed sleep

• nervousness

• depressive symptoms

An older 2005 study showed that the aroma of lavender and orange reduced anxiety in dental patients.

Benefits

Lavender may have several beneficial effects that help ease anxiety, including:

• improved mood

• lower heart rate

• lower adrenaline levels

• regulated breathing

• improved sleep quality

Nervous system

Lavender has been shown to affect the parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system controls bodily processes associated with anxiety, such as heart rate, breathing rhythm, and hormone secretion.

Mental health

Research suggests that lavender may be of benefit as a complementary treatment for mild to moderate depression. Another study indicated that lavender has an anti-anxiety and anti-depressive effect. Oral lavender taken for 6 weeks was shown to improve the general mental health and quality of life in 50 patients with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Sleep

Lavender has long been considered a natural sleep remedy to improve sleep quality and treat insomnia.

Research from 2010 has shown that orally administrated lavender can assist with symptoms of restlessness and disturbed sleep. This can help with anxiety, as well as improve general well-being and quality of life.

Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety/lavender-for-anxiety

What are your thoughts on herbs and holistic methods to help manage mental health issues?

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Read Part 2!