When most people think of an aromatic smell and fragrance, like those found in soaps, sachets, and shampoos, lavender comes to mind. However, it’s much more than just a fragrance – its an herb that acts as a natural remedy to a variety of different ailments and conditions.

Some medical conditions that lavender is believed to help treat includes insomnia, depression, mood disturbances, and anxiety disorders. All of this centers around the research that has shown that lavender creates a soothing, calming effect.

Clinical studies performed on humans have shown that the essential oil that is derived from lavender can provide many of the benefits to treating the medical conditions above – particularly insomnia. In some ancient folklore, pillows that were filled with lavender flowers helped those that were unable to fall asleep – do exactly that — sleep.

There is now evidence in the scientific community that has hinted that a type of aromatherapy involving lavender may be able to slow the activity of the nervous system, which improves quality of sleep and encourages relaxation in the body. It also lifts the mood. These same studies have suggested that massages with oils, lavender in particular, may not only improve sleep quality but can also increase mental capacity and lower the amount of anxiety present.

In one study in particular, those that received a message that involved lavender felt less anxious and more upbeat and positive than the participants in the study that received a message without lavender.

In Germany, lavender flowers have been approved to reat restlessness, insomnia, and stomach irritation.