Lavender is one of the most popular aromas. It is widely used in perfumery. However, it is also commonly used for its health benefits. For example, it is one of the most popular agents for aromatherapy.
Lavender is especially popular for stress relief, mood boosts, and anti-anxiety remedies. However, many people are not aware of the fact that lavender is not just an aroma. Its essential oil can be used topically and even consumed. It is known to boost immunity and have anti-inflammatory properties (1).
In this article, we are especially interested in its ability to lower inflammation, its antioxidant properties, and its ability to boost health.
The health benefits of lavender are due to its content of many organic compounds. Lavender is especially rich in numerous potent antioxidants. These organic compounds in the herb can modulate immunity and have anti-inflammatory effects. Thus, lavender is rich in phenolic compounds like cinnamic acid, caffeic acid, vanillic acid, and more. It is also rich in flavonoids like apigenin, triterpenes, and sterols(2).
Very few herbs are abundant in so many antioxidants, and compounds are good for immune health. So, it is a little surprising that its use can boost health in many ways.
The Antioxidant Properties of Lavender
Antioxidants are molecules that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals or unstable atoms that can cause oxidative stress and harm cells. Free radicals are produced naturally in the body through metabolic processes, but external factors like pollution, UV radiation, and unhealthy diets can increase their levels.
When free radicals accumulate, they can damage DNA, proteins, and cell membranes, contributing to aging and various diseases, including cancer and heart disease.
Key antioxidants found in lavender include polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins. Polyphenols, such as rosmarinic acid, have strong anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate inflammation in the body. This can be particularly beneficial in managing conditions like arthritis, where reducing inflammation can improve joint function and reduce pain (2).
Flavonoids, including luteolin and quercetin, provide powerful antioxidant benefits that protect the body from oxidative stress and support cardiovascular health.
Additionally, the tannins in lavender contribute to its ability to reduce inflammation and promote overall wellness.
How Lavender Enhances Immune Function
Lavender's antioxidants play a vital role in supporting the immune system by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Key antioxidants in lavender, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins, help neutralize free radicals that can damage cells and weaken the immune response.
Polyphenols like rosmarinic acid have anti-inflammatory properties that help regulate the body's immune response, preventing excessive inflammation that can impair immune function. Flavonoids, including luteolin and quercetin, further bolster the immune system by enhancing the activity of immune cells and improving their ability to combat pathogens. Tannins, with their astringent properties, also contribute to immune support by promoting the health of mucous membranes, which serve as the body's first line of defense against infections (2,3).
It is vital to understand that studies have proven that lavender can boost immunity. It is one of the best antioxidant-rich foods or herbs. Lavender health benefits are many.
Additional Health Benefits of Lavender
Bioactive compounds in lavender support overall immune function and promote relaxation and mental well-being by assisting the body's natural stress response mechanisms.
Consuming lavender in various forms, such as herbal teas or culinary dishes, can help alleviate stress and improve sleep quality. Lavender has many health benefits.
Its calming properties are known to relax the mind and body, facilitating better sleep patterns and enhancing overall restfulness. Beyond stress reduction and sleep improvement, lavender's anti-inflammatory properties help maintain a healthy cardiovascular system and support immune health.
Conclusion
It is time for people to realize that lavender is not just an aromatic plant but a plant with many medicinal properties. Moreover, these benefits are not just due to its aroma. This means that this plant is also suitable for ingestion. Zenkgo Herbal Mood Plus Support contains lavender extract, which is one of the ways it helps reduce stress, boost immunity, and fight aging.
References
- Donelli D, Antonelli M, Bellinazzi C, Gensini GF, Firenzuoli F. Effects of lavender on anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Phytomedicine. 2019 Dec;65:153099.
- Dobros N, Zawada KD, Paradowska K. Phytochemical Profiling, Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Plants Belonging to the Lavandula Genus. Molecules. 2022 Dec 28;28(1):256.
- But VM, Bulboacă AE, Rus V, Ilyés T, Gherman ML, Bolboacă SD. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant efficacy of lavender oil in experimentally induced thrombosis. Thromb J. 2023 Aug 9;21:85.