Evidence supporting the use of: Lavender
For the health condition: Bites and Stings

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has a long history of traditional use for soothing bites and stings. Folk medicine commonly employed lavender oil for insect bites, minor burns, and skin irritations due to its perceived calming, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. While scientific studies on lavender's efficacy specifically for bites and stings are limited, some in vitro and animal research supports its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions, which could theoretically help prevent infection and reduce swelling or discomfort after a bite or sting. Traditional application involves diluting lavender essential oil and applying it topically, often to alleviate itching or promote skin healing.

A few small studies have shown that lavender oil may reduce skin irritation and possess mild analgesic effects. For example, one study indicated lavender essential oil had anti-inflammatory properties in animal models. However, robust clinical trials in humans focusing on bites and stings are lacking. The evidence, therefore, remains largely anecdotal and is rooted in historical use rather than modern clinical validation. Some official herbal pharmacopeias and aromatherapy texts continue to recommend lavender for insect bites as part of broader skin-soothing protocols.

In summary, while lavender's use for bites and stings is primarily justified by tradition and supported by some preliminary laboratory evidence, there is insufficient high-quality scientific data to strongly endorse its effectiveness for this specific purpose.

More about lavender
More about Bites and Stings