Lavender oil is an essential oil extracted from the flowers of the lavender plant, and it has been used for centuries for its calming and soothing properties. In recent years, lavender oil has gained popularity for its potential health benefits when used topically. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using lavender oil topically and review the scientific evidence behind them.
Pain Relief
Lavender oil has analgesic properties that can help to alleviate pain when applied topically. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine found that topical application of lavender oil was effective in reducing pain intensity and improving mobility in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Another study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2014 found that lavender oil was effective in reducing pain and inflammation in animal models of arthritis.
Anxiety Reduction
Lavender oil is also known for its anxiolytic properties. A 2012 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that lavender oil aromatherapy reduced anxiety levels in patients undergoing open-heart surgery. A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Psychiatry in Clinical Practice found that topical application of lavender oil was effective in reducing anxiety levels in patients with generalized anxiety disorder.
Improved Sleep
Lavender oil has been shown to improve sleep quality when applied topically. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Nursing Research found that topical application of lavender oil improved sleep quality and reduced anxiety levels in patients in an intensive care unit. Another study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2015 found that lavender oil aromatherapy improved sleep quality in patients with insomnia.
Wound Healing
Lavender oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that make it an effective treatment for wounds. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Wound Care found that topical application of lavender oil reduced the healing time of pressure ulcers in elderly patients. Another study published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology in 2015 found that lavender oil was effective in inhibiting the growth of bacteria that can cause skin infections.
Skin Health
Lavender oil has been shown to have a positive effect on skin health when applied topically. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that topical application of lavender oil improved skin barrier function and reduced inflammation in animal models of dermatitis. Another study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2013 found that lavender oil was effective in reducing acne lesions in human subjects.
In conclusion, lavender oil has several potential health benefits when used topically, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, improved sleep, wound healing, and improved skin health. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these benefits, the existing scientific evidence supports the use of lavender oil as a natural remedy for a variety of health concerns. When using lavender oil topically, it is important to choose a high-quality, pure oil and dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin.
