What Are the Benefits of Lavender Oil? What Is It Used For?

Lavender oil is a highly popular and versatile essential oil used in aromatherapy. Obtained through the distillation of the lavender plant, lavender oil supports relaxation and can contribute to conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Lavender oil is a product that can be used for many different purposes. In addition to its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiseptic, and antimicrobial properties, it also has antispasmodic, analgesic, and sedative effects. Due to its benefits, lavender oil can be a treatment alternative for many health issues, but it is important to remember the significance of dosage and patient history in herbal products. Tolerance levels, allergic history, and effective dosage can vary for each individual.

What Is Lavender Oil Used For?

Lavender oil, used since ancient times, may help alleviate certain symptoms caused by various health problems. While some of these benefits are supported by various studies, caution should be exercised as research continues regarding some benefits of lavender oil. Some of the conditions that lavender oil may contribute to include:

• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Hair loss
• Headaches
• Side effects from chemotherapy
• Acne
• Burns
• Eczema and dry skin
• Wound healing
• Mood-related problems

What Are the Benefits of Lavender Oil?

Lavender oil is a highly popular essential oil, claimed to have many different benefits. Anxiety, a condition known for causing worry, is one of the areas where lavender oil may help. Although there are not yet large-scale clinical studies, various research results have identified lavender oil's potential supportive properties for anxiety (5).

One of the studies on the benefits of lavender oil pertains to its effects on insomnia. Along with proper sleep hygiene practices, the use of lavender oil may show supportive properties in alleviating insomnia problems in some individuals.

Lavender oil is also an essential oil that can contribute to the fight against depression. Various studies have indicated that the use of lavender oil may help support mood in cases of mild to moderate depression (5).

What Are the Benefits of Lavender Oil for Hair?
Lavender oil may have various benefits for hair health. It is an essential oil that can stimulate hair growth. Hair treated with lavender oil may grow faster and appear thicker. The application of lavender oil to the scalp can help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi on the scalp due to its antimicrobial properties. This can contribute to alleviating problems such as itching and dandruff caused by infectious processes on the scalp.

What Are the Benefits of Lavender Oil for Skin?
The use of lavender oil on the skin may offer many different benefits. Reducing acne lesions, supporting skin tone, and contributing to the reduction of wrinkles are just a few of the benefits lavender oil can provide for normal skin health.

Lavender oil is known for its antibacterial and antifungal effects, which can inhibit the growth of bacteria in the applied areas. Thus, its use on the skin surface is expected to support open pores and reduce inflammation, helping to prevent acne breakouts. When using lavender oil for acne problems, it is recommended to dilute it with another carrier oil based on the advice and knowledge of a physician, then apply it to the skin, followed by cleansing the area with clean water.

Eczema is a skin problem that can occur in many areas of the body. With the development of this problem, the affected skin area may appear dry, itchy, and flaky. These lesions, usually identified as mild to moderate, can sometimes show a chronic course in various areas of the body in some individuals, so caution is advised. Lavender oil is also an essential oil that can contribute to skin lesions in psoriasis, known as the skin condition (2). Its application can help cleanse the skin and alleviate complaints such as redness and irritation.

Lavender oil can also have a positive effect on wound healing. Various studies conducted using animals indicate that the group using lavender oil may experience a shorter wound healing time (4). Another study has determined that applying topical lavender essential oil can support collagen production, positively affecting wound healing (4).

How to Use Lavender Oil?

Direct application of essential oils on the skin can negatively affect skin health. Therefore, it is very important to mix these types of oils with a carrier oil before use. Depending on the intended use, lavender oil can be mixed with argan, coconut, or other various oils for application. Generally, after the dilution process, the oil mixture is applied to the skin using fingers or cotton pads. It should be noted that hand hygiene must be thoroughly maintained before application.

In addition to being applied to the skin, lavender oil can also be used as steam for various facial problems, such as acne. Care should be taken to avoid excessive hot steam exposure to the face during these types of applications.

There is no established recommended dosage for lavender oil. Generally, considering the principles of aromatherapy application, it is advised that essential oil applications be performed in conjunction with massage. Essential oils should be used with the knowledge and recommendations of your healthcare provider. It is important to be aware that these products should never be ingested.

What Are the Risks of Lavender Oil?

Lavender oil is not currently recognized as a medicinal product within general medical practices. Therefore, it is advised to consult with healthcare professionals before use and to obtain information about potential risks and side effects. It should be remembered that essential oils can exhibit toxic properties if ingested, which is one of the most common misuse cases. Symptoms of ingestion and potential poisoning may include difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Some individuals may exhibit sensitivity to lavender oil. While lavender oil is generally considered safe for use on the skin, it can cause irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals. Symptoms such as a burning sensation, redness, and the appearance of small red lesions can occur in the event of an allergic reaction. If such symptoms occur, it is recommended to discontinue the use of the essential oil immediately and seek medical attention.

Although rare, literature indicates that repeated use of lavender oil in prepubescent boys may lead to a condition known as prepubertal gynecomastia, characterized by feminization of breast tissue (6).

Another group that should exercise caution with essential oil use is pregnant women. Particularly during the first trimester, which refers to the first three months of pregnancy, it is advisable to be aware that essential oil use may have toxic effects on the fetus (2).

It is quite natural for many individuals to enjoy the fragrant aroma of lavender oil. However, it should be noted that there is currently no approval for the medical use of these oils, and the data obtained is still in the early stages. Lavender oil can have supportive properties in managing various conditions, particularly in skin and hair health. Reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and cleansing the skin surface are just a few of the benefits of this oil. It is recommended to consult healthcare professionals to determine if lavender oil is suitable for your use, particularly for application on the hands, face, and legs. We wish you healthy days.