Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Lavandula (lavender), particularly in the form of essential oil, has shown some scientific evidence supporting its use for tension headaches. Several randomized controlled trials and clinical studies have investigated lavender’s effects on headaches, especially when administered via inhalation or topical application. The proposed mechanism relates to lavender’s anxiolytic and sedative properties, likely mediated by modulation of GABAergic neurotransmission and reduction of muscle tension.

For example, a 2012 randomized controlled trial published in European Neurology (Sasannejad et al.) observed that inhalation of lavender essential oil led to a statistically significant reduction in headache severity among migraine sufferers compared to placebo. While this study focused on migraines, similar mechanisms may apply to tension-type headaches, which often share stress and muscle tension as contributing factors. Additionally, a 2016 review in Phytomedicine found moderate evidence supporting lavender aromatherapy for headache relief. However, the number of high-quality studies specific to tension-type headaches remains limited, and methodologies vary.

Traditionally, lavender has also been used for headache relief in various cultures, but scientific research forms the primary basis for its current use in this context. Most evidence suggests lavender is safe for short-term use when applied topically or inhaled. Nevertheless, further larger-scale and well-designed studies are needed to confirm efficacy and establish optimal dosing for tension headaches.

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