Lavender Oil for Anxiety: Benefits and Side Effects

When life feels overwhelming and stress and anxiety creep in, many people turn to natural remedies in the hope of finding calm. One such remedy that’s gained popularity over the years is lavender oil. You might have heard of it being used in spa treatments, sleep sprays, and supplements. But does lavender help with anxiety, and is it actually effective? 

This blog post explains how lavender oil works for anxiety, its benefits, how to use it safely, and any possible side effects you should be aware of.  

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new essential oil treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions or allergies.

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Lavender oil is an essential oil extracted from the flowers of the lavender plant, Lavandula angustifolia. It’s well known for its soothing fragrance, often described as floral, clean, and slightly herbal. You’ll find it in everything from pillow sprays and massage oils to capsules and skincare products.

Traditionally, it’s been used to promote relaxation, reduce inflammation, ease pain, and support sleep. More recently, researchers have explored its role in mental health, particularly in helping those struggling with stress, anxiety, and nervous tension.

Lavender’s calming effects are thought to come from its interaction with the brain’s chemical messengers, especially those involved in mood regulation. Compounds in the oil, like linalool and linalyl acetate, are believed to affect the limbic system, the part of your brain that controls emotions.

This might help explain why relaxation techniques involving lavender (such as inhaling the scent or applying it topically) often result in a noticeable sense of calm and wellbeing. It’s also why many people use lavender oil for stress and anxiety as part of their daily wellness routine.

Let’s explore how this fragrant oil might help you feel more at ease:

Several studies have shown that consuming lavender essential oil, whether through aromatherapy or oral supplements, can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms. It’s particularly useful for generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) and mild stress-related symptoms.

People often report feeling more centred and less overwhelmed after using lavender regularly. One notable clinical trial even found that oral lavender for anxiety worked as well as some anti-anxiety medications, but with fewer side effects.

Anxious thoughts and poor sleep often go hand in hand. Lavender’s relaxing properties may help quiet the mind at bedtime, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

This is where lavender blends beautifully into nighttime routines, diffusing it in your bedroom, adding it to a bath, or using a lavender-infused pillow spray can help your body and brain unwind naturally.

Anxiety doesn’t just affect your thoughts; it can also cause physical symptoms like muscle tension, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath. Lavender's calming effects may help soothe these reactions.

Massaging diluted lavender oil onto your temples, chest, and wrists could provide quick, gentle relief. It's also useful in massage therapy, where the combination of touch and scent enhances overall relaxation.

There’s evidence to suggest that lavender can have a subtle antidepressant effect. While it’s no substitute for professional mental health care, using lavender oil regularly may help lift your mood and improve emotional balance.

This makes it a helpful companion not just for anxiety, but also for low mood and emotional burnout.

If you’re wondering how to use lavender essential oil for anxiety, here are some simple and effective ways to add it to your routine.

Inhaling the scent is one of the fastest ways to experience lavender’s calming effects. Try:

Many people feel a difference within minutes of inhalation, though consistent use tends to offer longer-lasting effects.

You can dilute lavender essential oil in a carrier oil like almond, coconut, or jojoba oil, then apply it to the skin. This is ideal for:

Be sure to perform a patch test first, especially if you have sensitive skin.

If you're using it topically, some of the best places to apply it are:

Just remember to dilute it properly in a carrier oil before applying to the skin.

For more consistent results, you might consider lavender capsules or supplements. These typically contain a standardised amount of oil (often known as Silexan) and are used under guidance from a healthcare provider

Lavender oil tablets are often taken daily, and results may be noticed within a few weeks. Always read the label and talk to your doctor before starting a new supplement.

If you're using oral lavender, the recommended doses range from 80 to 160 mg of lavender oil per day. But this can vary depending on the brand and your personal needs. Always follow dosage instructions carefully and consult a medical professional if you’re unsure.

Lavender is generally safe when used as directed, but like all remedies, it isn’t completely risk-free. Here are some things to consider.

You should avoid lavender oil or consult a professional before use if:

When in doubt, always check with a medical expert before starting a new supplement or essential oil, especially if you plan to use lavender oil for stress and anxiety long term.

If you’re fascinated by the benefits of lavender oil, why not turn your interest into a skill? At Centre of Excellence, we offer an Aromatherapy Diploma Course that explores different essential oils, blending techniques, safety precautions, and how to apply your knowledge at home or professionally. As a special offer, you can access the Aromatherapy Diploma Course for just £29!