A critical review on clinical evidence of the efficacy of lavender in sleep disorders

Abstract

Sleep disorders are one of the most prevalent psychiatric diseases. Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder amongst the general population. It is also one of the most frequent complaints in primary healthcare centers. Lavender is called "the broom of the brain" in different oriental traditional medicines. It is one of the most used plants for patients with sleep disorders. This study reviews what is currently known about the use of lavender for sleep disorders in patients with different diseases, from cancers and end-stage renal disease to neurological-psychiatric diseases (e.g., depression, dementia, and autism), respiratory, cardiac, and metabolic diseases.Additionally, its most used administration route is the inhalation of its essential oil (i.e., aromatherapy) alone or in combination by massage. Some limitations of the reviewed literature were discussed briefly. Overall, this critical review provides promising evidence of the lavender efficacy for sleep disorders in a wide variety of populations and diseases. However, further clinical studies with robust design and longer durations of intervention are necessary for more evidence-based judgment on its effect on sleep problems and to investigate its mechanism of action.

“Like one part of a puzzle” — individualized aromatherapy for women with gynecological cancers in aftercare: results from a qualitative-focused mixed-methods study

“…Regarding the effectiveness of lavender for therapeutic purposes, research is inconclusive [ 43 ]. However, recent reviews summarize promising evidence for lavender use against sleeping disorders [ 44 , 45 ]. Empirical research on the efficacy of lavender against neuropathic pain is limited; however, basic research on mice [ 46 ] and in patients with diabetes [ 47 ] has been demonstrated.…”

Innovative Encapsulation Strategies for Food, Industrial, and Pharmaceutical Applications

“…[121] Techniques are crucial in improving stability, shelf life, and bioavailability of bioactive valuable compounds. Encapsulation systems, including SD, coacervation, emulsification, encapsulation in lipid carriers, and sol-gel encapsulation, have been developed to address the challenges associated with the volatile and sensitive nature of these compounds [122][123][124][125][126][127][128] Each encapsulation technique has distinct advantages and disadvantages, which determine its suitability for specific applications. SD is a commonly used and economical process, generating particles with a narrow size distribution; however, it may lead to reduced bioactivity due to exposure to high temperatures.…”

“…Techniques are crucial in improving stability, shelf life, and bioavailability of bioactive valuable compounds. Encapsulation systems, including SD, coacervation, emulsification, encapsulation in lipid carriers, and sol‐gel encapsulation, have been developed to address the challenges associated with the volatile and sensitive nature of these compounds [122–128] …”

Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Patients With Idiopathic Inflammatory Demyelinating Diseases of the Central Nervous System: A Cross-Sectional Study in Thailand

“… 9 , 10 Several recent studies indicate that patients with various diseases have explored clinical applications involving different dietary supplements and complementary medicine. 11 , 12 , 13 Therefore, many patients may adopt complementary and alternative medications (CAM) to achieve their individual desires.…”