Before considering the internal use of lavender, it is essential to understand that this information is for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
The dangers of ingesting undiluted lavender essential oil
It is crucial to understand that undiluted lavender essential oil, as typically sold for aromatherapy or topical use, is not intended for internal consumption and can be highly toxic. Essential oils are extremely concentrated plant extracts, and ingesting even a small amount can cause severe internal damage. This is a common misconception that can lead to serious health complications.
Undiluted essential oils do not mix with water, meaning that if you add them to a drink, the oil will not disperse. Instead, it will cling to the surfaces of your mouth and throat, causing burns and irritation to the sensitive mucous membranes. The liver and other organs can also be overwhelmed by the high concentration of compounds, potentially leading to poisoning. Symptoms of essential oil poisoning can range from gastrointestinal distress like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain to more severe neurological effects such as confusion, blurred vision, and seizures. Children are particularly vulnerable to essential oil toxicity.
Safe and studied methods for internal lavender use
For those who want to experience the internal benefits of lavender, such as for anxiety or sleep disturbances, there are specific, safe, and clinically studied methods. These involve using standardized, oral formulations rather than DIY mixtures with essential oils.
Pharmaceutical-grade oral capsules
One of the most well-research and reliable ways to take lavender oil internally is via pharmaceutical-grade oral capsules. These products contain a specific, standardized lavender oil preparation, such as Silexan® (Lavela WS 1265), which has been clinically proven to be safe and effective for internal use. These capsules are enteric-coated to prevent gastrointestinal irritation and deliver the oil to the intestines for proper absorption. Products containing Silexan® are available without a prescription and are a suitable option for those seeking the anxiolytic and calming effects demonstrated in scientific studies.
Herbal preparations
Another very safe and traditional way to consume lavender internally is through herbal preparations made from the culinary-grade flowers of the Lavandula angustifolia plant, also known as English lavender. Unlike essential oils, these preparations use the less-concentrated whole plant material.
Safe Herbal Lavender Options:
- Lavender Tea: Brew one to two teaspoons of dried culinary lavender buds in a cup of boiling water for about five to ten minutes. The resulting tea offers a much lower and safer concentration of beneficial compounds than essential oil.
- Culinary Applications: Small amounts of culinary lavender buds can be used to add flavor to foods like baked goods, honey, or lemonade. It is important to use only lavender varieties designated for culinary use, as others contain higher levels of camphor, which can taste bitter and be less desirable.
Comparison of internal lavender methods
To clarify the differences, here is a comparison of safe internal methods versus the unsafe practice of ingesting undiluted essential oil.
| Feature | Pharmaceutical-Grade Oral Capsules (e.g., Silexan®) | Culinary Lavender Tea | Undiluted Lavender Essential Oil |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formulation | Precisely dosed, enteric-coated softgels with standardized lavender oil. | Loose-leaf or bagged dried culinary-grade lavender flowers. | Highly concentrated liquid extract. |
| Safety for Ingestion | Safe. Clinically studied and manufactured specifically for internal use under controlled dosage. | Safe. Diluted, low concentration of active compounds derived from the whole plant. | Extremely Hazardous. Not intended for internal use; can cause burns and toxicity. |
| Active Compounds | Standardized concentration of key compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate. | Lower, variable concentration of compounds extracted via steeping. | Very high, concentrated dose of volatile compounds. |
| Efficacy | Clinically proven for anxiety and sleep issues in studies. | Offers gentle calming effects, though less potent than capsules. | No proven therapeutic benefits internally; only risks. |
| Side Effects | Rare, but can include mild aromatic burps, nausea, or headache. | Generally none, unless allergic. | Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, neurological symptoms, and burning. |
Important considerations and warnings
Before incorporating any form of lavender internally, especially medicinal-strength supplements, it is wise to consult a healthcare provider. This is particularly important for certain populations:
- Medication Interactions: Lavender can cause sleepiness and might interact with medications that have similar effects, such as sedatives and antidepressants. It may also increase the effects of blood-thinning drugs.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Safety information for internal lavender use during pregnancy and lactation is limited. It's best to avoid oral preparations unless advised by a doctor.
- Allergies and Sensitivities: Individuals with allergies to lavender or with sensitive skin should exercise caution.
- Underlying Conditions: People with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast or prostate cancer, should avoid lavender supplements due to potential hormonal effects.
Conclusion
While lavender offers proven benefits for relaxation and anxiety, the question of how to take lavender oil internally requires careful consideration of safety. The most critical takeaway is to never ingest undiluted lavender essential oil. Doing so carries a significant risk of toxicity and internal damage. For therapeutic effects, the scientifically validated method is to use pharmaceutical-grade oral supplements like Silexan®. For a milder, gentler approach, traditional herbal teas made from culinary-grade lavender flowers are a safe and effective alternative. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, and prioritize safety above all else, as the potential risks of improper ingestion far outweigh any purported benefits.
