Herbal Supplements For A Healthier Life

Botanical & Identity

Botanical Name

Lavandula angustifolia

Common Names

Lavender, True Lavender, English Lavender

Plant Family

Lamiaceae (Mint family)

Part Used

Flowers (dried), Essential Oil (distilled)

Taste Profile

Aromatic, slightly bitter

Energetics

Cooling, drying, calming
Lavender

Summary & Classification

Short Summary

Lavender is one of the most widely used calming and antimicrobial herbs, known for its aromatic flowers and essential oil. It supports nervous system relaxation, improves sleep, reduces anxiety, and soothes skin inflammation when used topically or aromatically.

Herb Actions

antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, carminative, anxiolytic

Herbal Category

aromatic herbs, skin care

Medicine System

western, traditional european medicine, aromatherapy

Active Ingredients

Linalool
,
Linalyl Acetate
,
Cineole
,
Camphor
,
Flavonoids
,
Tannins
.

Chemistry & Effectiveness

Active Ingredients

Mechanism of Action

Lavender’s volatile oils influence GABA receptor activity, promoting calm and reducing anxiety. Linalool and linalyl acetate exhibit antimicrobial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory actions. Topical application reduces skin irritation and supports wound healing.

Modern Applications

Used for insomnia, nervous tension, anxiety, headaches, burns, acne, and digestive upset. Common in oils, teas, tinctures, and topical products.

Traditional Uses & Preparation

Traditional Uses

Used since ancient times in Roman baths, for wound cleaning, headaches, and as a strewing herb for air purification.

Preparation & Usage

Applied as essential oil, infused in oils, teas, compresses, or inhaled via diffusers. Often used in sleep pillows and bath soaks.

Recommended Dosage

Tea: 1 tsp dried flowers per cup, steeped 10 min, up to 3x/day; Essential oil: 2–4 drops topically diluted in carrier oil; Aromatherapy: diffuse 30–60 min intervals.

Safety & Warnings

Contraindications

Avoid applying undiluted essential oil to sensitive skin.

Drug Interactions

May enhance sedative medications; monitor for drowsiness.

Pregnancy & Lactation

safe

Side Effects

Rare: skin sensitivity, allergic reactions. Always dilute essential oil before use.

Scientific & Source Info

Scientific References

– Cavanagh, H.M.A. & Wilkinson, J.M. (2002). Biological activities of Lavender essential oil. – Koulivand, P.H. et al. (2013). Lavender and the nervous system.

Sourcing Notes

Use organic Lavandula angustifolia. Flowers should be harvested just before full bloom for peak oil content. Ensure essential oil is steam-distilled, pure, and free of additives.

Product Linkage

Used In Products

Skin Healing Cream100ml

Skin Healing Creams 100ml

R320.00