Lavenders: Their Phytochemical Properties and Uses for Medical and Cosmetic Purposes

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.