Lavender essential oil was the subject of a compelling 2020 scientific review that delves into its potential therapeutic properties, particularly in the context of wound healing and pain reduction.
The results of this review showed that wounds treated with lavender essential oil healed faster, exhibited increased collagen expression, and demonstrated enhanced activity of proteins involved in tissue remodeling. This suggests that lavender essential oil may offer therapeutic benefits for wound healing.
The researchers conducted a comprehensive review following PRISMA guidelines, searching databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase from June 2018 through March 2019. They focused on studies related to lavender essential oil and wound healing, and found 36 unique studies, with 20 of them remaining after screening. The review considered human clinical trials, animal trials, in vitro studies, and previously conducted reviews.
The review emphasizes the importance of two primary components present in lavender oil: linalyl acetate and linalool. These compounds, known for their antioxidant, antibacterial, anxiolytic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties, work together to enhance collagen production and stimulate proteins responsible for tissue repair, thus contributing to the oil's wound healing potential. Understanding the role of these biologically active terpenoid components is crucial for standardizing the chemical composition of lavender essential oil, which will ultimately help in assessing its safety and efficacy in clinical practice.
The composition of lavender essential oil can vary due to factors such as altitude, temperature, and precipitation. Consequently, researchers are striving to standardize the concentration of these compounds to ensure consistency in commercially available products.
In conclusion, this in-depth review of lavender essential oil reveals its promising potential for use in wound care, going beyond just smelling really nice. With its natural, effective, and soothing properties, lavender essential oil certainly deserves further exploration. This research not only serves as an important stepping stone for future studies, but could also ultimately lead to significant advancements in wound healing and pain management by helping us better understand the full range of benefits offered by lavender essential oil.
Study Title:
The Effects of Lavender Essential Oil on Wound Healing: A Review of the Current Evidence
Study Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32589447
