10 Health Benefits Of Lavandula Angustifolia (English Lavender)

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, has health benefits such as reducing anxiety and stress, promoting better sleep, and easing pain.

Its calming effects are due to its high content of linalool and linalyl acetate, which have a sedative and anti-inflammatory effect.

By using lavender essential oil in aromatherapy or applying it topically, people can alleviate symptoms of insomnia, anxiety disorders, and even migraines, leading to improved mood, reduced fatigue, and enhanced quality of life.

This article explains in details the 10 best health benefits of Lavandula angustifolia.

1. Reduces anxiety and stress

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, reduces anxiety and stress because of its calming properties.

The aromatic oils present in the plant have a soothing effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing feelings of overwhelm. Inhaling the scent or applying it topically can help to calm the mind and body, making it an effective natural remedy for managing anxiety and stress.

Regular use has also been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce symptoms of depression.

2. Improves sleep quality

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, improves sleep quality because of its calming and sedative properties.

The essential oils present in the plant, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, promote relaxation and reduce anxiety levels. As a result, individuals are able to fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly throughout the night.

Additionally, English lavender has been shown to decrease stress hormones like cortisol, making it easier to drift off into a restful slumber.

3. Alleviates headaches

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, alleviates headaches because of its potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The essential oils present in this herb, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to relax tense muscles, reduce pain sensitivity, and ease inflammation in the brain, which are common contributing factors to headaches.

Additionally, lavender's calming effects on the nervous system can help regulate stress hormones that often trigger or exacerbate headache episodes.

4. Soothes skin irritations

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, soothes skin irritations because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The plant's essential oils contain linalool and linalyl acetate, which work together to calm redness and swelling, reducing the appearance of acne, eczema, and other skin conditions.

Additionally, English lavender has a gentle, non-irritating formula that won't disrupt the skin's natural pH balance, making it an effective and soothing treatment for sensitive skin.

5. Heals wounds and burns

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, heals wounds and burns because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The essential oil in the plant, linalool, has been shown to inhibit bacterial growth, reducing the risk of infection and promoting a healthy healing environment.

Additionally, the oil's antioxidant properties help to soothe and calm damaged tissue, reducing inflammation and pain associated with wounds and burns.

6. Relieves muscle tension

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, relieves muscle tension because its unique blend of compounds, including linalool and linalyl acetate, has a profound impact on the nervous system.

When inhaled or applied topically, these fragrant oils can calm the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety that often contribute to muscle tightness.

As a result, English lavender helps to relax tense muscles, promoting flexibility and easing discomfort associated with sore joints and muscles.

7. Combats fungal infections

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, combats fungal infections because of its unique essential oil composition.

The oil contains linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to exhibit antifungal properties. These compounds inhibit the growth of various fungi, including Candida albicans, a common cause of opportunistic infections.

Additionally, lavender's antimicrobial effects can help prevent fungal colonization, making it a natural remedy for treating and preventing fungal-related diseases.

8. Repels insects

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, repels insects because of its unique chemical composition.

The plant contains a high concentration of volatile oils, particularly linalool and camphor, which have been shown to deter insects from approaching or feeding on it. These oils disrupt the insects' sense of smell and taste, making it unappealing for them to come near.

Additionally, the fragrance of lavender is often overwhelming for many insects, causing them to seek alternative sources of food or shelter.

9. Eases digestive issues

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, eases digestive issues because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

The oil extracted from its flowers can help reduce inflammation in the gut, alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and soothe stomach cramps and spasms.

Additionally, English lavender's calming effects on the nervous system may also contribute to its ability to ease digestive discomfort, promoting a sense of relaxation and reducing stress-related digestive issues.

10. Lowers blood pressure

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, lowers blood pressure because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds.

The plant's essential oils, including linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to possess potent vasodilatory properties, relaxing the blood vessels and improving circulation.

This reduction in peripheral resistance helps to lower blood pressure, making English lavender a natural remedy for hypertension and cardiovascular health.