Lavender contraindications and side effects

Contraindications of lavender We have been asked the following about lavender: What are the effects of lavender? Do you have lavender contraindications? What are the side effects of lavender?

Let’s see the answers to these questions:

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General features

Lavender belongs to the Lamiaceae, or mint family, and is therefore linked to more than 7,200 species of primarily aromatic plants, such as basil, rosemary, sage, thyme, and oregano.

Lavender bushes are about three feet (1 m) tall and can grow almost as wide. They are made up of many opposite foliage spikes ending in violet-blue flowers. Fresh or dried, its flowers are the most coveted part of the plant, harvested for its high concentration of volatile oil and other nutrients.

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Historic information

Hailing from the rocky, temperate shores of the western Mediterranean, lavender was domesticated more than 2,500 years ago, where it first spread from Egypt north to Greece and Rome.

Early Christians infused the flower with great religious significance, and it remained a symbol of holy love for millennia. In medieval times, the herb was commonly used to scent clothing to the extent that washerwomen were known as «lavenders.» It was also the scent of choice for kings for centuries, arriving in England in the 17th century and becoming an integral part of British and colonial culture soon after.

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Lavender Benefits

Most of lavender’s medicinal value is derived from the volatile oil found in its flower petals, which, when distilled in a essential oilare considered an important first aid remedy thanks to their antibacterial effects.

Traditionally, lavender has been used primarily for:

disinfection of wounds and scratches. When applied topically, this plant shows antibacterial effects.

Soothing headaches. It can be rubbed on the skin and used as a sedative agent.

Induce sleep and tranquility. Thanks to its aroma relaxing, this herb has sedative properties. Hence, it is considered a remedy against insomnia. Place a few drops of lavender essential oil on your pillow every night for a restful sleep.

Relieve digestive symptoms. Lavender can soothe indigestion .

Promote Hair Growth While more studies are needed to truly determine these results, preliminaries lead us to believe that lavender may help hair grow. For those suffering from hair loss or anyone who longs for long, lush locks, the results of lavender, especially its oil, in hair growth and animal studies point to potential success.

Relieve pain and migraines Lavender plays an important role in helping to reduce headaches, muscle pain, back pain, among others. Essential oils have long played a role in the natural treatment of headaches, mainly due to their sedative nature, and in trials and tests, lavender hasn’t missed a beat and has been found to be hugely beneficial for calming headaches. the headache.

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How does it work

Lavender contains many organic compounds and active ingredients, most of which can be found in its volatile oil. This oil contains more than 40 different components, including linalyl acetate, cineole, and nerol, which together provide antispasmodic, antiseptic and antibacterial. Its fragrance is also believed to be sedative, while the tannins, courmarins, and flavonoids offer antioxidant capabilities. Mild carminative properties are also present.

Antibacterial properties are also present in calendula, while passion flower and lemon balm they may provide similar sedative benefits.

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Side effects and contraindications

Contraindications of lavender #1 Do not take during pregnancy and lactation Lavender should not be used by women who are pregnant or nursing or by children.

Lavender contraindications #2 Allergies You may have symptoms such as breathing difficulties, throat irritation, and a skin rash.

Contraindications of lavender #3 Avoid in case of surgery Lavender tea or its oil-like products are not safe for people undergoing surgery. This is because it might slow down the central nervous system when used along with anesthesia and other medications taken before and after surgery. Knowing this, it is best to discuss with your doctor what you can and cannot eat before and after the operation. In most cases, you will be asked to stop drinking lavender tea or using any lavender products at least two weeks before your scheduled surgery.

Lavender Contraindications #4 Drug Interactions Lavender tea may interact with sedatives or medications that cause drowsiness. Therefore, it is recommended not to consume it especially if you have to drive a car or handle heavy equipment.

Lavender contraindications #5 It can cause gynecomastia; inflammation of the breast tissue in men or boys, caused by an imbalance of the hormones testosterone and estrogen. There is a study by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences published in 2007, on the use of lavender and gynecomastia in pre-pubescent boys. Three young children developed gynecomastia while using products containing this plant.

The children stopped using the products and the gynecomastia symptoms disappeared. It is unknown whether the oils cause similar endocrine-disrupting effects in prepubescent girls, adolescents, or women.

Due to the delicate nature of lavender essential oil, it is recommended to be selective when buying it. It is important to use only quality, pure oil and to avoid synthetic oil entirely.
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