Potential Risks of Lavender Herb
Before using lavender, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider to ensure its safety for the individual. Below, we outline the safety profile of this herb, along with precautions and potential side effects associated with its use:
Safety Profile of Lavender Herb
The following points summarize the safety of various forms of lavender:
- Oral Consumption: Lavender is generally considered safe when consumed in amounts typically found in food. Large amounts may also be safe, but can potentially cause side effects such as constipation, headaches, and increased appetite when taken orally.
- Essential Oil Safety: The essential oil of lavender can be toxic if ingested orally.
- Topical Application: Lavender oil is likely safe for skin application when mixed a few drops with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil. It is recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin to observe any reactions before full application.
It is important to note that lavender essential oil may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Discontinue use immediately if symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or headaches occur after application. To minimize the risk of reactions or allergies, avoid using undiluted oil on the skin, refrain from prolonged use of the same oil or mixture, and always read labels and instructions before use.
- Inhalation of Lavender Oil: Inhaling lavender oil is generally deemed safe. A few drops can be placed on cotton or tissue for inhalation.
- Safety for Pregnant and Nursing Women: There is insufficient information regarding the safety of lavender for pregnant or nursing women, thus it is advisable to avoid its use during these periods until more information is available.
- Safety for Children: The use of lavender oil in pre-pubescent boys may not be safe as it can disrupt hormonal balance, potentially causing a condition known as gynecomastia. The safety of lavender products for young girls is also not well established.
Precautions When Using Lavender Herb
Individuals with certain health conditions should approach lavender use with caution. These include:
- Those Undergoing Surgery: Lavender may interact with anesthetics and other medications, potentially slowing the central nervous system. It is advised to stop consuming lavender at least two weeks prior to surgery.
- Heart Patients: The effects of lavender on the nervous system can be harmful to individuals with heart conditions; thus, they should only use lavender after consulting their doctor or healthcare provider.
Drug Interactions with Lavender
Below are some medications that may interact with lavender:
- Hypotensive Medications: Lavender may lower blood pressure, posing a risk of excessive hypotension when taken with blood pressure medications. Caution is advised against consuming large amounts of lavender alongside these medications, including:
- Captopril
- Enalapril
- Losartan
- Valsartan
- Diltiazem
- Amlodipine
- Hydrochlorothiazide
- Furosemide
- Sedative Medications: Lavender has the potential to induce drowsiness. Some examples of sedatives that may interact with lavender include:
- Lorazepam
- Alprazolam
- Diazepam
- Midazolam
- Chloral Hydrate: This substance can induce drowsiness, and lavender may enhance its sedative effects.
- Barbiturates: These medications may also cause drowsiness, and combining them with lavender could increase this effect. Some barbiturates include:
- Amobarbital
- Butabarbital
- Mephobarbital
- Pentobarbital
- Phenobarbital
- Secobarbital
- CNS Depressants: Lavender can also heighten drowsiness when combined with CNS depressants. Examples include:
- Clonazepam
- Zolpidem
- Lorazepam
- Phenobarbital
Overview of Lavender and Its Benefits
Lavender (scientific name: Lavandula angustifolia) is a flowering plant belonging to the mint family, known for its distinctive fragrance. It is utilized as a flavoring agent in food and beverages and is also used in various industries, including soaps, cosmetics, perfumes, potpourri, and decorative arrangements. The flowers are often distilled to extract essential oil, and lavender is available in multiple forms such as oil, tea, capsules, or supplements.
The flowers of lavender contain several beneficial compounds, including anthocyanins, phytosterols, as well as sugars, minerals, and tannins. Additionally, lavender essential oil is recognized for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and has positive effects on the digestive and nervous systems.
For more information on the benefits of lavender, please refer to our article on the Benefits of Lavender Herb.