Herbal Medicine Fact Sheets
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March 18, 2024

The Benefits of Lavender Tea: A Soothing Sip for Mind and Body

Written By
Dr. Rachel Magerman ND
Medically Reviewed by
Updated On
January 17, 2025

Lavender tea is a popular herbal beverage today due to its warming, floral aroma, and many traditional uses. Lavender is well known to promote relaxation and stress relief and has been used in many cultures and generations. In this article, we will dive into the historical uses, current properties, how and when to use, and safety of this popular herb. 

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Historical Use of Lavender

Lavender has been used in traditional practices for thousands of years due to its calming and stress-relieving effects. There are several varieties of this plant, however, the most common is known as English Lavender, L. angustifolia. Lavendula angustifolia (Lavender) is native to the Mediterranean Sea and southern Europe through Middle and Eastern Africa. Lavender is rich in volatile oils and has been used for aromatherapy for centuries (2). 

Lavender has been used since the Middle Ages as a bath additive and to make perfumes. In Tibetan practices, lavender was used to support mental well-being. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), lavender has been used to support relaxation, skin health, and digestive comfort (2). 

The Top 5 Benefits of Lavender Tea

While there are many benefits, here are the top 5 you might find interesting:

Here are top 5 benefits of lavander tea.

1. Stress and Anxiety Reduction

Lavender has been used for its calming properties to help manage stress and anxiety for centuries in traditional practices. Lavender essential oil contains compounds that may have relaxing effects. Several studies have been conducted to investigate the properties of Lavender on the nervous system and its potential to support relaxation. Research suggests that oral consumption of lavender may help improve sleep quality and general well-being in those experiencing stress. The study also indicated that Lavender might help manage anxiety similarly to some medications (20).  

2. Sleep Improvement

Lavender is widely known for its potential to support sleep quality. In a study conducted on those with mixed anxiety disorder, taking lavender before bed helped improve both the quality and duration of sleep. It is important to note that those in the study did not report any side effects compared to those taking a benzodiazepine before bed. More research suggests that lavender can be helpful for those tapering off pharmaceuticals for sleep support (20). 

3. Digestive Health

Lavender has been traditionally used to support digestive comfort due to its soothing effects. Lavender may help relax smooth muscle tissue, which can aid in managing indigestion, gas, and bloating. Lavender is often considered for those experiencing digestive discomfort associated with stress and anxiety. (2, 46)

4. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects

Lavender essential oil contains compounds that may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which have shown potential benefits in managing discomfort. Studies have suggested that the use of lavender may help manage pain. Another study used lavender oil topically, which showed a decrease in blood pressure, heart rate, and discomfort (20, 34).  

5. Skin Health

Lavender is a widely known herbal remedy to support skin health. Due to its anti-microbial properties, several studies have examined the efficacy of lavender on skin health. The properties of lavender are due to a high content of linalool and linalyl acetate. The results of the studies suggest that lavender may support wound healing and reduce topical inflammation. Furthermore, the properties of lavender essential oil may be effective in managing acne (17, 32).

How to Brew Lavender Tea

Preparing lavender tea is a simple and fun way to enjoy the traditional uses of lavender. To make a simple cup of lavender tea at home you can steep 2 tsp of dried lavender flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 15 minutes. To enhance the flavor, 1 tsp of honey can be added if desired (2). 

Since lavender is a bitter and drying herb, it can be mixed with other herbs to make a more balanced tea. For additional nervous system relaxation, the addition of Chamomile or Milky Oats is a fantastic formula to ease a burnt-out nervous system. Milky oats are used in cases of chronic anxiety and stress. Chamomile is another aromatic herb used for relaxation and digestive comfort (3,39). 

Incorporating Lavender Tea into Your Wellness Routine

Lavender tea can be consumed at any time of the day; however, it is often enjoyed at night due to its relaxing effects. Lavender tea can be a great drink to unwind from the day or connect with friends. If the tea is not your favorite, lavender essential oil can be diffused throughout the home to promote peace and relaxation. (20)

Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects

Lavender tea and essential oil are generally considered safe both internally and externally when used correctly. Regarding the essential oil of lavender for topical use, it is best to dilute the pure essential oil into a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or olive oil. It has been reported that topical use of lavender may induce allergic skin reactions in a few individuals. It is not recommended to ingest lavender essential oil internally due to the possibility of irritating the mucous membranes of the throat, tongue, and digestive system (23, 24). 

Common side effects of lavender tea may include headaches, chills, nausea, vomiting, and increased appetite. It is advised for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding to avoid both internal and topical application of lavender. There is no research noting any interactions between lavender and pharmaceutical medications. However, since lavender promotes central nervous system relaxation, it is advised not to mix this herb with narcotics such as oxycodone or benzodiazepines (24). 

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Key Takeaways

Incorporating lavender into your everyday routine is a gentle way to support relaxation from stress and anxiety.

Lavender may offer support for sleep, digestive comfort, and skin health.

Considering that stress is an everyday aspect of life, lavender is a herb that many people might find beneficial.

Awareness of side effects, contraindications, and interactions with medication discussed today, lavender can be a great addition to a balanced lifestyle. 

The information in this article is designed for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. This information should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting a doctor. Consult with a health care practitioner before relying on any information in this article or on this website.

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References

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Rachel Magerman
Author
Dr. Rachel Magerman ND
Naturopathic Doctor
Medically Reviewed by
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