Lavender Oil
Lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia): what NIH says about anxiety, sleep, aromatherapy and skin use, side effects, and the hormone-related questions raised by NIEHS.
Content last updated . This page has not been medically reviewed.
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Overview
Lavender is an aromatic evergreen plant native to the Mediterranean region. Its scent is widely used in bath products, perfumes and aromatherapy. It is also promoted as an oral supplement for calming anxiety and stress, and for aromatherapy and use on the skin. [1]Names and plant
Lavandula angustifolia, also called English lavender or common lavender. [1] GBIF accepts the name Lavandula angustifolia Mill. [2] Products labeled "lavender" can come from other species, so check the botanical name on the label.What the research shows (NIH summary)
NIH says that more high-quality research is needed to reach reliable conclusions. [1]| Use | What NIH says | Strength of evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Anxiety (a specific oral lavender oil product) | Studies have suggested it might be beneficial, but with limitations: small studies, a lack of independent funding and testing, and a lack of participant diversity. [1] | Limited |
| Depression symptoms | Preliminary reports of small studies suggest oral capsules or tea might reduce symptoms in some people, to be interpreted with caution. Topical lavender does not seem to have an effect. [1] | Preliminary |
| Menopause-related sexual dysfunction | One preliminary study of 72 postmenopausal women aged 50 to 65 suggested an oral lavender oil product might offer some relief. [1] | Preliminary |
| Aromatherapy (anxiety, stress, depression, some pain, sleep) | It is unclear whether it helps. Some people report improved quality of life. [1] | Unclear |
| Cough in COVID-19 | One preliminary study of a syrup; more reliable evidence is needed. [1] | Preliminary |
Forms
Lavender is sold as an essential oil, capsule, tea, and in cosmetics. The oral lavender oil capsule studied is a specific product, not the same as essential oil in a bottle. Do not swallow essential oil from a bottle. Ask a clinician about any oral lavender supplement.Safety
- Lavender is likely safe in the amounts typically used in foods. Oral products might be safe short term in the amounts tested, but may cause diarrhea, headache, nausea or burping. [1]
- Aromatherapy with lavender oil is considered possibly safe, but it may cause headache or coughing. [1]
- Products used on skin may cause allergic skin reactions in some people. [1]
- A few cases of breast tissue swelling have been reported in children who used topical products containing lavender. It is unclear whether lavender was responsible, since the condition has many causes. [1] NIEHS lab tests found lavender oil and some of its chemicals showed hormonal activity, and a 2019 clinical case described breast growth in prepubescent girls with continuous exposure to lavender-fragranced products that resolved when exposure stopped. [3]
- There are theoretical reasons lavender might interact with some sedative drugs or herbs, which matters before surgery. [1]
- Little is known about safety in pregnancy or breastfeeding. [1]
Pets
We found no sourced veterinary page for lavender oil that we could read. Do not use it on pets unless a veterinarian advises it. See pet safety.Frequently asked questions
Does lavender oil help you sleep?
NIH says it is unclear whether lavender aromatherapy improves sleep quality or insomnia. [1]
Does lavender oil help anxiety?
Studies of a specific oral lavender oil product suggest it might, but they are small and have limitations. For aromatherapy, NIH says it is unclear. [1]
References
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Lavender: Usefulness and Safety. Page last updated February 2025.
- GBIF Secretariat. GBIF Backbone Taxonomy. Names checked 2026-10-22 through the GBIF species match service.
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIH). Essential Oils. Last reviewed March 19, 2026.
Education, not medical advice. This page is for general information. It does not diagnose or treat any condition and is not a substitute for care from a qualified health professional. Natural does not automatically mean safe. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before changing your care, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition.