Lavenders: Their Phytochemical Properties and Uses for Medical and Cosmetic Purposes
April 2024
Studysummary In this discussion of lavender products, the authors highlighted their traditional use for therapeutic purposes, aromatic qualities, and skincare applications, though lavender's medical efficacy remains unsupported by FDA approval and its primary mechanisms of action are not yet fully understood. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
Lavender, known for its carminative, sedative, and antidepressant properties, is a popular herb used in traditional medicine and the aromatic herb industry. Its essential oil, containing alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, beta-ocimene, camphene, camphor, limonene, pcymene, sabinene, and terpinenes, is used in aromatherapy and various beauty products, including shampoos, for its cleansing properties and pleasant scent. Lavender has been used to treat a range of conditions, from dizziness to hair loss, and to increase bile flow, treat varicose ulcers, and relieve carpal tunnel syndrome. However, the exact mechanism of action of lavender essential oils and its components is not fully understood, with studies suggesting effects on serotonergic neurotransmission and ionotrophic y-aminobutyric acid type A receptors. Despite its widespread use, lavender is not approved for medical use by the FDA and should not replace approved and prescribed drugs.
