Products
Lavender oil soft capsules have been approved as medicinal products in many countries since 2016 (Lasea, Laitea). In Germany, the product was already approved in 2010.
Ingredients
The capsules contain the defined lavender oil Silexan (WS 1265) from the narrow-leaved medicinal lavender and pharmaceutical excipients. Silexan complies with the specifications of the European Pharmacopoeia and is obtained from the inflorescences by steam distillation. The active ingredients of the oil include linalool and linalyl acetate.
Effects
Lavender has anti-anxiety, sedative (sedative), antispasmodic (spasmolytic), and antidepressant properties. Its efficacy has been demonstrated in clinical trials. The effects are attributed in part to binding to presynaptic voltage-gated calcium channels (cf. pregabalin).
Indications
For the treatment of anxiety and agitation.
Dosage
According to the package leaflet. The 80 mg capsule is taken once daily with a glass of water, regardless of meals. The capsule should not be administered while lying down. In principle, the duration of use is not limited. However, if the symptoms persist unchanged after two weeks, the patient should seek medical treatment.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Children and adolescents under 18 years
- Pregnancy and lactation (no data)
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include gastrointestinal discomfort (belching) and allergic skin reactions. Lavender oil is better tolerated than synthetic anxiolytics such as the benzodiazepines and is not addictive.
