Almost everyone knows the feeling: a tight chest, a racing mind, a day that won't let go. Lavender has a long reputation as a calming plant, and it turns out that reputation has real research behind it. Here is what the studies actually tested and found, in plain language.
The strongest research: a lavender oil capsule
The most rigorous lavender studies tested Silexan, a standardized lavender oil capsule taken by mouth and made from Lavandula angustifolia, English lavender. A 2023 meta-analysis combined all five double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials, with 1,213 adults, and found Silexan reduced anxiety significantly more than placebo after ten weeks (source). It has been authorized as a medicine in more than 20 countries (source).
It's important to be precise: those trials tested a specific capsule at a specific dose. They did not test candles, sprays, wraps or tea.
Lavender scent: stress and sleep
Most everyday lavender use is through scent. A review of 30 aromatherapy studies found improvements in sleep along with reduced stress, anxiety and fatigue (source). A 2025 meta-analysis of randomized trials found lavender essential oil improved adults' sleep quality (source). An earlier review called lavender's sleep benefit small to moderate and asked for larger trials (source), which is a fair note to keep in mind.
Simple ways to bring lavender into a stressful day
- A pause: a few slow breaths of lavender from a room spray or candle before you open your email.
- Warmth: a warm, weighted lavender neck wrap over your shoulders at the end of the day.
- An evening wind-down: dim lights, lavender scent and screens off for the last half hour before bed. Browse our aromatherapy and fragrance collection.
- Something to hold: for kids and grown-ups alike, a warm Xander Friend. Every one you buy sends one to a child in foster care.
Good to know
- Lavender is a comfort, not a replacement for care. If worry is affecting your sleep, work or relationships, talk with your doctor or a counselor.
- Never apply undiluted essential oil to skin, and ask your doctor before using concentrated lavender if you are pregnant, nursing, or take sedatives or other medicines.
- If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
About our lavender
We grow English lavender, the species used in this research, on our family farm in Michigan. Our lavender essential oils are USDA Certified Organic and come from certified organic growers.
Frequently asked questions
Does smelling lavender work like the capsules in the studies?
No. The anxiety trials tested an oral capsule. Scent studies are about aromatherapy, mainly for relaxation and sleep.
Can I use lavender with my medication?
Ask your doctor first, especially if you take sedatives or other prescription medicines.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Talk with your doctor about any health concerns.
