Lavender Oil (Oral)
A specially prepared oral lavender oil for clinically proven anxiety and stress relief without sedation.
Also known as: Silexan • Lavandula angustifolia
Overview
While lavender is famous for its calming aroma, a specific preparation of lavender oil designed for oral use, known as Silexan, has emerged as a powerful anxiolytic. This is not the same as aromatherapy essential oil. Silexan is a standardized extract of Lavandula angustifolia flowers. It works by modulating calcium channels in the brain, which reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, resulting in a calming effect without causing drowsiness or dependence.
Key Benefits
Reduces Generalized Anxiety
Clinical trials show Silexan is as effective as some benzodiazepines and SSRIs for treating generalized anxiety disorder, with a much better safety profile.
Improves Sleep Quality
By reducing anxiety and restlessness, it helps improve sleep duration and quality without acting as a direct sedative.
Non-Drowsy and Non-Addictive
Unlike many anxiety medications, Silexan does not cause significant sedation, cognitive impairment, or carry a risk of dependence.
Dosage & How to Take
The clinically studied dose is one 80mg softgel per day. Some studies use up to 160mg per day.
| Purpose | Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Generalized Anxiety Disorder | 80-160mg/day | Taken as a single daily dose. |
| Restlessness and Agitation | 80mg/day | Effects are typically seen within two weeks. |
Best Time to Take
Can be taken at any time of day, with or without food. Consistent daily use is important.
With or Without Food
Not required.
Forms & Bioavailability
| Form | Absorption | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silexan Softgels | High | Anxiety | This is the specific, patented, and clinically validated preparation. Do not ingest regular lavender essential oil. |
Side Effects & Safety
Common
- Lavender-flavored burps (eructation) are the most common side effect.
Rare
- Mild nausea or digestive upset.
Contraindications
- Known allergy to lavender. Do NOT ingest aromatherapy-grade lavender oil.
Interactions
Silexan has a very favorable safety profile and is not known to have clinically relevant drug interactions.
Scientific Research
A multi-center, double-blind, randomised study of the Lavender oil preparation Silexan in comparison to Lorazepam for generalized anxiety disorder
Silexan was shown to be comparable to lorazepam in its effectiveness for GAD, with a much more favorable safety profile.
Food Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications. The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.