Lavender tea, brewed from the fragrant purple buds of the Lavandula angustifolia plant, has garnered attention for its potential health benefits. While research specifically on lavender tea is still emerging, studies on lavender extracts and oil suggest a range of positive effects, from calming nerves to improving sleep and skin health. This article delves into the potential benefits of lavender tea, exploring the science behind these claims and offering practical advice on incorporating this soothing beverage into your daily routine.
The Essence of Lavender Tea
Lavender tea is made by steeping the purple buds of the Lavandula angustifolia plant with hot water. This herbal infusion has been used for centuries in traditional folk medicine to cure illnesses. The plant itself is an evergreen native to the Mediterranean region, bearing fragrant lavender buds that blossom into small purple flowers. The sweet fragrance of lavender is widely used in aromatherapy and skincare products. Lavender tea is naturally caffeine-free and offers a comforting aroma, making it a popular choice for relaxation.
Potential Benefits of Lavender Tea
While more research focusing specifically on lavender tea is needed, existing studies on lavender extracts and oil preparations suggest several potential benefits:
1. Mood Enhancement and Anxiety Relief
Lavender is widely recognized as an aromatherapy agent and supplement for its calming properties. Some research indicates that compounds in lavender may stimulate activity in specific brain areas, influencing the transmission of impulses between brain cells, which can boost mood and produce a calming effect.
Studies: A 2020 study involving 60 older adults found that drinking two cups of lavender herbal tea twice daily for two weeks led to more significant reductions in anxiety and depression compared to a placebo. Similarly, a 2015 study with 80 new mothers revealed that those who drank one cup (250 mL) of lavender tea daily for two weeks, while appreciating its aroma, reported less fatigue and depression than those who did not consume the tea. However, the benefits appeared to diminish after four weeks, suggesting that the calming effects are most pronounced early on.
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Oolong Lavender Tea: For an added boost, consider oolong lavender tea. Oolong's secret weapon in the energy department is its caffeine and amino acid L-theanine. Although the drink doesn’t have as much caffeine as a cup of coffee, oolong’s L-theanine helps slow the absorption of caffeine. Research shows that L-theanine in oolong stimulates the alpha waves in your brain, the feel-good hormones in your brain. One extensive research done on 12 men revealed that those who drank oolong had more energy than those who only drank water.
2. Improved Sleep Quality
The calming effect of lavender on the body may contribute to improved sleep quality. While specific studies on lavender tea's direct impact on sleep are limited, research on other forms of lavender is promising.
Studies: A 2025 study examined the effects of lavender oil aromatherapy on fatigue and sleep quality in 100 people undergoing chemotherapy who also had hematological malignancies. Participants who inhaled lavender essential oil for 20 minutes before bedtime for five nights experienced significantly less fatigue and better sleep quality compared to those who inhaled a placebo solution. A 2015 study involving 158 new mothers in the postpartum period indicated that those who took 10 deep breaths of lavender fragrance four days a week for eight weeks had significantly better sleep quality than those in the placebo group.
Practical Application: Based on these findings, enjoying a cup of lavender tea before bed may promote better sleep. Lavender chamomile tea is best for reducing sleep and stress.
3. Relief from Menstrual Cramps
Abdominal cramping is a common symptom experienced before or during menstruation. A 2021 review found that lavender oil aromatherapy was particularly effective in relieving feelings of discomfort, such as menstrual cramping, especially when combined with abdominal massage.
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Study: A study was conducted on 200 young adult women in Iran. They were encouraged to smell lavender for 30 minutes daily during the first three days of their menstrual cycle. Appreciating the aroma while drinking lavender tea may help reduce menstrual pain.
Potential Benefits: While there are no studies on the ingestion of lavender in tea or supplements for menstrual cramps, drinking lavender tea and appreciating its scent may offer some relief.
4. Skin Health Support
Lavender oil has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and pro-aging effects.
Studies: A 2025 study found that the topical application of lavender oil may enhance skin cell health, function, and number, reduce oxidative stress, boost skin cell recovery and wound healing, and strengthen the skin barrier. A 2025 test-tube study revealed that combining lavender essential oil with lavender hydrosol helped reduce levels of Escherichia coli (E. coli), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans.
Practical Application: These results suggest that certain forms of lavender may promote skin healing and support overall skin health. Lavender tea also has antimicrobial properties.
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5. Pain Relief
Lavender essential oil has pain-relieving or analgesic properties. It can help reduce pain during headaches like migraine. A study suggested that inhaling lavender essential oil can be a safe way to treat migraine headaches. Lavender tea has anti-inflammatory properties. These can help with pain from muscle and joint inflammation. This makes it a great addition to chiropractic treatments.
6. Digestive Health
Lavender tea could soothe our stomachs and boost overall health. It might reduce inflammation and help us relax. Its ability to ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and other stomach problems is promising. Lavender tea has special compounds that relax and calm us. These include coumarin, linalool, β-ociminene, and eucalyptol. They might lessen inflammation and ease stomach issues. Lavender tea can also stop spasms in the stomach. This is good news for those with irritable bowel syndrome or other stomach problems.
7. Heart Health
Lavender oolong tea can help protect you from the torments of heart disease. A study showed that 600 of 1507 research subjects who drank tea regularly decreased their hypertension risk by as much as 46%.
8. Diabetes Management
Extensive oolong studies have been done on diabetic rats. One such study revealed that oolong tea reduced blood plasma glucose significantly from 229 to 162.2 mg/dL. Lavender in the tea also helps fight diabetes as it reduces stress. Too much stress can increase the risk of type-2 diabetes, evidence shows.
9. Weight Loss
Oolong tea’s catechins, the plant antioxidants filled with potent antioxidants, boost the body’s metabolism. Science shows catechins in tea, especially the EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate, aid in weight loss.
How to Make Lavender Tea
Making lavender tea is a simple process, whether you use store-bought tea bags or brew your own with loose lavender buds.
Using Tea Bags: Steep a store-bought lavender tea bag in a cup (250 mL) of hot water for a few minutes.
Using Loose Lavender Buds: Pour 1 cup (250 mL) of hot water over 1/2 teaspoon of loose lavender buds. Let it steep for a few minutes to allow the flavors and beneficial compounds to infuse into the water.
Personalization: Add half a teaspoon of honey and one or two drops of lemon juice.
Other ways to Use Lavender
Topical Application: For topical use, mix a few drops of lavender oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before gently massaging it into your skin. Perform a patch test to check for any adverse reactions before applying liberally.
Aromatherapy: For aromatherapy, place a few drops of lavender oil on a cotton ball or tissue and inhale. Alternatively, use an essential oil diffuser.
Lavender essential oil is also used in aromatherapy and massage. It’s also good for anxiety and stress. Lavender is used in potpourri, sachets, and as a natural air freshener.
Precautions and Side Effects
While lavender tea is generally considered safe, it's important to be aware of potential precautions and side effects.
Potential Side Effects: Some individuals may experience diarrhea, headache, burping, or nausea after consuming lavender products like tea or supplements. Aromatherapy with lavender oil may cause coughing or headaches. In rare cases, drinking lavender tea has been linked to an abnormally rapid heartbeat.
Skin Sensitivity: Applying undiluted lavender oil to the skin may cause irritation and inflammation. Always dilute it properly with a carrier oil.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of lavender oils and teas for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals is not fully established. Consult with a healthcare professional before use.
Drug Interactions: Due to its potential effects on the nervous system, consult a healthcare professional before using lavender tea or essential oils if you have an underlying health condition or are taking medications. Lavender may interact with some sedatives, but more research is needed to confirm this. Limited research has examined the effects of lavender tea on blood pressure. However, some research suggests that lavender aromatherapy may help relieve high blood pressure. Lavender tea might change how some medicines work, like blood thinners.
Supplement Quality: Lavender extracts are available in oil and supplement forms, but there are no standardized doses for supplements. This means the type, quantity, and quality of the ingredients listed on the product label may differ from what’s actually in the product.
The Significance of Lavender Tea in Wellness Routines
Lavender tea is a valuable addition to a wellness routine, offering benefits for both the mind and body. Its calming properties can improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation.
Combining with Other Therapies: Lavender tea can be used in conjunction with other wellness practices, such as chiropractic care and massage services, to enhance overall health. Float tank therapy, which promotes relaxation and stress reduction, can be enhanced by incorporating lavender aromatherapy.
Importance of Mental Clarity: Regular consumption of lavender tea can promote mental clarity and focus, making it a valuable addition to your daily routine.