THE topic of sleep seems to be permanently trending and the fact that we all need sleep to function means that it’s super important to make it a priority.
But there is a common herb that that may improve your sleep quality, particularly for those with anxiety related disorders.
The Lavender plant
Lavender is a perennial and evergreen plant and there are more than 40 types of the plant.
One that is common and used for medicinal purposes is Lavendula angustifolia.
Native to North Africa and the Mediterranean region, lavender now also grows throughout the United Kingdom as well as other parts of the world.
Almost wherever lavender grows, it grows abundantly. The plant spreads quickly, leading some people to think of it as a weed.
But the plant’s flowers, leaves and essential oil are all used as natural medicines.
How to take Lavender
Lavender is taken orally as a supplement, often to treat anxiety, depression , insomnia , as well as physical pain, including headache and toothache.
Lavender is used topically in lotions and creams for skin and hair treatments, as well as to treat wounds and pain.
It’s often used as an aromatherapy tool for sleep problems, to improve mood and relieve stress.
But lavender can also be brewed into teas and infusions.
A cup of warm Lavender tea a couple of hours before bedtime is a great way to help you wind down.
Alternatively you could try lightly spraying your pillow with Lavender or soaking in a hot bath before bed with a few drops of lavender essential oils and Epsom salts.
The benefits of Lavender for a better night’s sleep
Studies have shown lavender can have a variety of beneficial effects, including improved sleep quality and lowered anxiety.
Lavender oil is a popular aromatherapy choice for sleep and relaxation reports The Sleep Doctor.
Several studies show using lavender oil for aromatherapy can improve sleep quality, including in people with insomnia, depression, and anxiety.
Some people should take special precaution when considering using lavender
The following people should take special precaution when considering using lavender:
- Women who are pregnant and breast feeding: Women who are pregnant or breast feeding are advised not to use lavender, because there isn’t sufficient information establishing the safety of lavender for these women.
- People having surgery: Lavender has a slowing effect on the central nervous system. If lavender is used along with anesthetic or other surgery-related medications, the combination may cause the nervous system to slow down too much. It’s recommended not to use lavender for two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
- People with hormone-sensitive cancers: Lavender has been shown to affect the body’s hormones, specifically estrogen and testosterone. It’s not clear what affects lavender might have in people with hormone-sensitive cancers, and they are advised not to use lavender orally or topically.
Aromatherapy using lavender oil may also increase time spent in deep, slow-wave sleep.
Studies also show both oral lavender and inhaled lavender may reduce anxiety.
Some studies suggest oral lavender may work as effectively as anti-anxiety medications to improve anxiety.
Scientists have found similar types of results for lavender’s effectiveness in treating depression.
Lavender oil aromatherapy has been shown to reduce the physical and emotional signs of stress, lowering blood pressure and heart rate, and increasing feelings of relaxation and calm.
