Lavender against anxiety and restlessness: what does the evidence say?

Lavender is a classic. The scent is associated with relaxation, and the plant appears in oils, tea and capsules.

For a standardised lavender extract in capsule form, there is reasonable research indicating a positive effect for mild restlessness. The evidence for simply smelling lavender oil is much weaker.

As an aid to relaxation, lavender can be pleasant. For persistent anxiety, it is not a substitute for the help of a GP or psychologist.