Does lavender aromatherapy alleviate premenstrual emotional symptoms?: a randomized crossover trial; Biopsychosocial Medicine, 2013; Link
Key findings regarding the benefits of lavender for mood include: Enhancement of Parasympathetic Activity: Inhalation of lavender significantly increased high-frequency power in heart rate variability (HRV), reflecting an increase in parasympathetic nervous system activity, which is often associated with relaxation and stress reduction. Reduction of Depression and Confusion: The study reported significant decreases in the depression-dejection and confusion subscales of the Profile of Mood States (POMS), suggesting that lavender aromatherapy can alleviate feelings of sadness and mental disarray often experienced during the premenstrual phase. Sustained Effect: The mood-improving effects of lavender were observed to last for at least 35 minutes after the aroma stimulation, indicating a lasting benefit following inhalation.
