Evidence supporting the use of: Lavender
For the body system: Parasympathetic Nervous System

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Synopsis

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

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has a long history of traditional use for relaxation and calming, but there is also scientific evidence supporting its potential effects on the parasympathetic nervous system, which governs "rest and digest" functions. Several studies indicate that lavender, particularly its essential oil, may promote relaxation and reduce markers of sympathetic nervous system activity, indirectly supporting parasympathetic dominance.

Clinical research has demonstrated that inhalation of lavender essential oil can reduce anxiety, lower heart rate, and decrease blood pressure—physiological signs associated with increased parasympathetic activity. For example, a 2012 randomized controlled trial published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that lavender aromatherapy significantly decreased anxiety and improved mood in patients undergoing dental procedures, suggesting modulation of autonomic nervous system balance.

Furthermore, a systematic review in Phytomedicine (2019) concluded that both oral supplementation and aromatherapy with lavender oil could reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress, likely through interaction with neurotransmitter systems (e.g., GABAergic pathways) that influence autonomic function. However, while evidence supports lavender's calming effects, direct measurement of increased parasympathetic nervous system activity in humans is limited; most studies infer effects based on physiological markers.

In summary, both traditional use and a growing body of scientific evidence support lavender’s role in promoting relaxation and potentially supporting the parasympathetic nervous system, though more direct research is warranted.

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