Lavender for Menopause: Science on Symptoms & Relief

The transition through perimenopause and into menopause marks a significant biological milestone in a woman's life. It's a natural process, not a disease, signifying the end of the reproductive years [1]. Perimenopause, meaning "around menopause," is the lead-up phase where the body begins its shift. This transition often starts in the 40s, though the timing varies, and is characterized by fluctuating levels of estrogen, the primary female hormone [3]. Menstrual cycles can become irregular – longer, shorter, heavier, lighter, or skipped altogether [1]. This phase can last for an average of four years, though ranges from two to eight years are reported [1]. Menopause itself is officially defined as the point when 12 consecutive months have passed without a menstrual period, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55, with the average age in the U.S. being 51 [1].

This hormonal shift orchestrates a wide array of potential symptoms, varying greatly in intensity and combination from person to person [1]. Among the most well-known are vasomotor symptoms: hot flashes, experienced as sudden waves of intense heat, often accompanied by flushing and sweating, and their nighttime counterpart, night sweats [1]. Emerging evidence even links the presence and severity of hot flashes to potential risks for neurological and cardiovascular conditions later on [13]. Sleep disturbances are also very common, including difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early. While often triggered by night sweats, sleep problems can occur independently during this time [1].

Mood changes frequently accompany the transition, encompassing mood swings, heightened irritability, tearfulness, and an increased risk or worsening of anxiety and depression, sometimes even leading to panic attacks [1]. These emotional shifts are often intertwined with sleep disruption and the direct effects of hormonal fluctuations [2]. Cognitive changes, often described as "brain fog," involving difficulty concentrating and memory lapses, are also reported, though often temporary [1].

Physical symptoms can include joint and muscle aches, headaches or an increase in migraine frequency, fatigue, skin changes like dryness and itching, hair thinning, weight gain (particularly around the abdomen due to metabolic shifts and muscle loss), bloating, constipation, heart palpitations, and dizziness [2]. Furthermore, the decline in estrogen leads to changes collectively known as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). This involves the thinning, drying, and inflammation of vaginal tissues (vaginal atrophy), potentially causing pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), itching, burning, and increased susceptibility to urinary and vaginal infections. Bladder control issues like urinary urgency, frequency, or incontinence may also arise or worsen [1]. Changes in sexual function, including shifts in desire (libido), arousal, and satisfaction, are also common [3]. Beyond immediate symptoms, the long-term decrease in estrogen increases the risk for conditions like cardiovascular disease (due to unfavorable changes in cholesterol levels) and osteoporosis (bone loss) [1].

Given the potential impact of these symptoms on daily life and well-being [3], many women seek strategies for relief. Alongside conventional medical treatments, interest in natural and complementary approaches is growing. One such approach involves lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), an herb celebrated for its distinctive calming fragrance and long history of therapeutic use [20]. But does the scientific evidence support the idea that lavender can genuinely offer support during the menopausal transition? This report delves into the traditional uses, modern applications, scientific research, potential mechanisms, and safety considerations of using lavender for perimenopause and menopause symptoms.

Lavender's Legacy: From Ancient Rituals to Modern Remedies

Lavender's history is deeply intertwined with its soothing aroma and perceived purifying qualities. Its very name is thought to derive from the Latin verb "lavare," meaning "to wash," reflecting its historical use in baths to cleanse body and spirit [20]. Beyond bathing rituals, lavender has been employed in traditional and folk medicine for centuries, dating back at least to medieval times [27]. Traditional uses cover a broad spectrum of ailments, including insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, depression, fatigue, headaches, nervous stomach irritations, and pain relief [23]. Some medieval physicians even prescribed it for epilepsy and migraine attacks [27]. A common folk practice involved stuffing pillows with lavender flowers to promote restful sleep [23].

Today, lavender continues to be utilized in diverse forms, harnessing its aromatic compounds for various applications

• Essential Oil: This is perhaps the most common modern form, obtained through steam distillation of the flower spikes, primarily from species like Lavandula angustifolia [24]. Lavender essential oil is central to aromatherapy practices but is also used topically (often diluted in a carrier oil like almond or olive oil) for massage, added to baths, or incorporated into lotions and balms [19]. It's crucial to note that ingesting undiluted essential oil is generally considered unsafe and potentially toxic [23].
• Aromatherapy/Inhalation: This involves utilizing the scent of lavender to elicit effects. Methods include using essential oil diffusers, adding drops to boiling water for steam inhalation, smelling the oil directly from the bottle or a tissue, using pillow mists, or placing dried lavender sachets near bedding [19].
• Topical Products: Lavender is incorporated into numerous skincare and personal care items, such as lotions, creams, soaps, shampoos, and massage oils [25]. Topical balms containing lavender oil have also been studied [30].
• Oral Preparations: Lavender flowers can be brewed into teas; in Germany, lavender tea is approved for addressing insomnia, restlessness, and nervous stomach issues [23]. Oral supplements, typically in capsule form containing lavender essential oil extract, are also available. A specific, standardized preparation known as Silexan (also designated WS 1265), derived from Lavandula angustifolia, has been extensively studied in clinical trials, particularly for anxiety and related conditions [20]. This standardized form allows for more consistent dosing and reliable research outcomes compared to non-standardized extracts or essential oils not intended for ingestion.
• Other Uses: Lavender's appeal extends to bath salts, eye masks filled with dried buds, perfumes, and even culinary applications as a food flavoring [28].

This wide range of applications reflects lavender's enduring popularity and the ongoing exploration of its potential benefits for health and well-being, including its possible role during the menopausal transition.

The Science Corner: Evaluating Lavender's Role in Menopause Symptom Relief

While traditional use offers a historical context, evaluating lavender's effectiveness for menopause requires examining contemporary scientific evidence from clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. Research has explored lavender's impact on various menopausal symptoms, with varying degrees of evidence quality.

Overall Menopausal Symptoms

Several studies have attempted to assess lavender's effect on the broad spectrum of menopausal symptoms, often using standardized questionnaires like the Greene Menopause Symptom scale. A notable Iranian double-blind, crossover randomized controlled trial involving 100 menopausal women found that lavender aromatherapy (inhaling the scent for 20 minutes, twice daily for 12 weeks) resulted in a statistically significant decrease in overall menopause symptom scores compared to a placebo group (P = 0.000).49 This study also reported significant reductions in specific symptom clusters, including anxiety, depression, physical symptoms, vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes), and improved sexual desire.50

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses pooling data from multiple studies offer a broader perspective, though their conclusions are sometimes tempered by the quality and consistency of the included trials. One systematic review and meta-analysis found that aromatherapy inhalation (using lavender or low-dose neroli oil) demonstrated superior effects in reducing total menopausal symptom scores compared to placebo, and aromatherapy massage with mixed oils also showed benefits [51]. Another review concluded that lavender aromatherapy may improve most physical and psychological symptoms in postmenopausal women, showing a significant standardized mean difference (SMD = -1.39), but cautioned about high heterogeneity (statistical inconsistency) among the studies (I2 = 76%) and called for higher quality research [52]. Conversely, an earlier review focusing on aromatherapy massage found only limited evidence for reducing menopausal symptoms [53]. A more recent (2025) meta-analysis indicated that aromatherapy (including various types like lavender) was efficacious for reducing physical, psychological, and overall symptoms compared to control groups, but graded the evidence quality as moderate for physical symptoms and low to very low for other outcomes [12].

The variability in findings across reviews often reflects differences in the types of aromatherapy studied (inhalation vs. massage), the specific oils used (lavender alone vs. blends), study designs, populations, and how symptoms were measured. This methodological heterogeneity makes it challenging to draw definitive conclusions about the impact of a specific lavender intervention on the overall menopausal experience based solely on pooled data [12]. The inconsistency highlights the need for more standardized research protocols.

Hot Flashes & Night Sweats (Vasomotor Symptoms)

Hot flashes are a hallmark symptom, and the previously mentioned Iranian crossover study specifically investigated lavender aromatherapy's effect on them.10 The results showed a significant reduction in the number of reported hot flashes in the group inhaling lavender compared to the placebo group (P < 0.001).10 This particular study is frequently cited as key evidence supporting lavender for hot flashes.6 Some researchers suggest the mechanism might involve stress reduction, as stress can trigger or worsen hot flashes.10 While other reviews include vasomotor symptoms within broader categories showing improvement 12, the strongest direct evidence for reducing hot flash frequency hinges significantly on this single trial conducted in Iranian women. While promising, the findings require replication in larger, more diverse populations to confirm their generalizability across different ethnicities, cultures, and environments.10

Sleep Disturbances & Insomnia

Lavender is widely reputed to aid sleep, and research offers some support, particularly for aromatherapy. Studies involving various populations, including those with insomnia, depression, or anxiety, suggest lavender aromatherapy can improve sleep quality 26, potentially by increasing time spent in deep, slow-wave sleep.6 Research specifically targeting menopausal or midlife women has yielded mixed but often positive results.7 For instance, a pilot trial found that lavender essential oil inhalation combined with sleep hygiene protocols improved insomnia in postmenopausal women.20 Systematic reviews consolidating data on menopausal women have found significant improvements in sleep quality scores (e.g., Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index - PSQI) with lavender use (aromatherapy or oral capsules) compared to controls.15

Oral lavender, specifically the Silexan preparation, has also shown benefits. Studies indicate it helped individuals with anxiety disorders sleep longer [26] and improved sleep disturbances secondary to anxiety [47].

However, the evidence isn't uniformly positive. Some studies reported improvements that weren't significantly different from control groups or noted limitations [7]. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) currently states it's unclear if lavender aromatherapy definitively benefits sleep quality or insomnia based on available evidence [20]. An important consideration is that lavender's sleep benefits might be closely tied to its effects on anxiety. Research suggests that Silexan's improvement in sleep outcomes is largely mediated by its anti-anxiety properties [47]. Given that anxiety is a common trigger for sleep problems during menopause [2], lavender might be most effective for those whose sleep issues stem from restlessness or an anxious mind, rather than acting as a universal sedative.

Anxiety, Stress & Mood Changes (Depression, Irritability)

This area boasts some of the most robust evidence for lavender, especially for the oral preparation Silexan. Numerous well-controlled clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses support the efficacy of Silexan (typically 80-160 mg daily) for treating subthreshold anxiety, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and mixed anxiety and depressive disorder.20 Some trials found Silexan superior to placebo and comparable in effectiveness to standard pharmaceutical treatments like lorazepam (a benzodiazepine) and paroxetine (an SSRI antidepressant) for anxiety symptoms.40 It has also shown benefit for depressive symptoms that co-occur with anxiety.40 Furthermore, studies suggest long-term use of Silexan is feasible, safe, and effective for managing anxiety disorders.48 The strength and consistency of the evidence for this specific, standardized oral preparation are notable, positioning it as a significant option for managing anxiety, a prevalent symptom during menopause.

Lavender aromatherapy (inhalation or massage) also shows promise for reducing anxiety, stress, and improving mood [14]. Systematic reviews support these anxiolytic effects [54], and massage with lavender may offer greater benefits than massage alone [23]. It appears particularly helpful for reducing situational anxiety associated with medical procedures or stressful events [23]. Evidence also suggests lavender (oral and aromatherapy) may help alleviate symptoms of depression [14], supported by several systematic reviews [42], although one review noted some studies found no significant effect [58]. Some research points to a reduction in the stress hormone cortisol following lavender inhalation or topical application, potentially contributing to stress relief [30], although one oral study did not find this effect [21].

Sexual Function (Libido, Vaginal Dryness/GSM)

The evidence regarding lavender's impact on sexual function during menopause is more preliminary and less conclusive. A small study (n=72 postmenopausal women) suggested that an oral lavender oil product (80mg/day for 60 days) might improve menopause-related sexual dysfunction compared to placebo (p=0.039).20 Several systematic reviews indicate that lavender aromatherapy (inhalation or massage, sometimes in blends with other oils like fennel, geranium, and rose) may improve aspects of sexual function, particularly sexual desire and satisfaction, compared to placebo or control groups.12

However, these improvements might be indirect consequences of lavender's established effects on mood and anxiety. Reduced anxiety and improved mood can naturally lead to increased interest in intimacy or enhanced sexual satisfaction. There is currently little evidence to suggest that lavender directly addresses the physiological changes of GSM, such as vaginal dryness or tissue thinning, which are primary causes of pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) for many menopausal women [18]. One review explicitly noted that an aromatherapy blend including lavender improved sexual function scores but did not alter estrogen levels [7]. Therefore, while lavender might help with the psychological aspects of sexual changes during menopause, it's unlikely to be a primary treatment for the physical symptoms of GSM based on current scientific understanding.

Summary of Evidence Quality

Overall, while research into lavender for menopause symptoms is growing and shows promise, particularly for anxiety (with Silexan) and potentially sleep and hot flashes (with aromatherapy), significant limitations exist. Many studies are small, conducted on specific populations (limiting how broadly the results can be applied), or have methodological weaknesses like inadequate blinding or short durations.20 Systematic reviews consistently highlight these issues and emphasize the need for more rigorous, large-scale trials conducted across diverse populations to confirm the findings and establish optimal delivery methods and dosages.12 The distinction in evidence quality between the well-studied oral Silexan for anxiety and the less consistently studied aromatherapy applications for other symptoms is important to recognize.

Table: Summary of Evidence for Lavender in Menopause Symptoms

How Might Lavender Work Its Magic? Unpacking the Potential Mechanisms

Understanding how lavender might exert its effects provides further insight into its potential role during menopause. Research suggests several biological pathways may be involved, with modulation of the nervous system appearing central.

Nervous System Modulation (The Leading Theory)

Lavender's calming reputation seems rooted in its interactions with the central nervous system (CNS).23 Key neurotransmitter systems appear to be influenced:

• GABAergic System: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, responsible for reducing neuronal excitability. Lavender, particularly its main component linalool, is thought to enhance GABAergic neurotransmission, possibly by acting on GABA-A receptors [21]. This action helps to quiet nervous system activity, contributing to lavender's sedative, anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), and potentially anticonvulsant properties [27]. The mechanism may differ from that of benzodiazepine drugs but leads to a similar outcome of increased inhibition [61].
• Serotonin System: Serotonin plays a crucial role in mood regulation. Studies indicate that lavender essential oil and linalool can bind to the serotonin transporter (SERT) [60]. SERT is responsible for reabsorbing serotonin from the synapse; inhibiting it increases serotonin availability, which is the mechanism of action for SSRI antidepressants. This interaction with SERT could contribute to lavender's potential antidepressant and anxiolytic effects [14].
• Glutamate System: Glutamate is the main excitatory neurotransmitter. Research suggests lavender and linalool can interact with the NMDA receptor, a type of glutamate receptor, potentially acting as antagonists (blockers) [27]. The oral preparation Silexan is also thought to reduce glutamate release [47]. By dampening excessive excitatory signals, this modulation could contribute to calming, anti-anxiety, and neuroprotective effects [27].
• Calcium Channels: The anxiolytic effects of Silexan may also involve the modulation of voltage-gated calcium channels. By reducing calcium influx into nerve cells, Silexan may decrease the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, helping to calm hyperactive nerve states associated with anxiety [48].
• Acetylcholine System: Linalool has been shown to inhibit the release of acetylcholine, another key neurotransmitter, at the neuromuscular junction [27]. The cholinergic system may be involved in several of lavender's neurological effects [27].
• Autonomic Nervous System: Lavender appears to influence the balance between the sympathetic ("fight or flight") and parasympathetic ("rest and digest") branches of the autonomic nervous system. Evidence suggests it may slow overall nervous system activity [23], potentially by inhibiting sympathetic nerve activity and promoting parasympathetic tone [14]. This could explain observed effects like reduced heart rate and blood pressure, contributing to relaxation [31].

Stress Hormone Modulation

Cortisol is a primary hormone released during stress. Some studies suggest lavender can influence cortisol levels. Inhalation of lavender essence before open-heart surgery was associated with reduced anxiety and lower blood cortisol levels compared to a control group.56 Similarly, topical application of lavender balm reduced serum cortisol in rats subjected to stress.30 However, a study involving oral administration of 80mg lavender oil capsules to postmenopausal women found no significant effect on their baseline cortisol levels.21 This discrepancy raises the possibility that the route of administration matters. Inhalation directly engages the olfactory system linked to the brain's stress-response centers 38, and this pathway might be more effective at modulating cortisol during acute stress situations than oral intake affecting baseline levels in non-stressed individuals.

Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties

Lavender also possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities.27 Inflammation and oxidative stress are implicated in various chronic conditions and aging processes. These properties could contribute to lavender's overall health benefits and potentially offer neuroprotection.27 For example, in vitro studies showed lavender essential oil could protect neuronal cells from damage induced by hydrogen peroxide, an oxidative stressor.60

The Hormonal Question (Phytoestrogen Activity)

A point of discussion and some controversy surrounds whether lavender acts as a phytoestrogen (a plant compound mimicking estrogen) or an endocrine disruptor. This concern arose primarily from in vitro (test tube) studies showing estrogenic (estrogen-like) and anti-androgenic (testosterone-blocking) activity of lavender oil and some of its components (like linalool, linalyl acetate) in human cell lines.39 This was linked to rare case reports of prepubertal gynecomastia (breast development in young boys) associated with topical use of products containing lavender and tea tree oils.39

However, this interpretation is debated. Critics point out that in vitro results don't always translate to effects in the whole organism (in vivo) and that the link to gynecomastia is based on case reports, not controlled studies [65]. Potential confounding ingredients in the reported products also complicate the picture [25]. Furthermore, subsequent research, including animal studies specifically designed to test for estrogenic activity, has provided evidence against lavender oil being estrogenic [65]. Importantly, clinical studies involving menopausal women using lavender (aromatherapy or oral) have generally not reported hormonal side effects or significant changes in relevant hormone levels like estrogen or cortisol (in the oral study) [7]. The NCCIH acknowledges the case reports but states it's unclear if lavender was the cause [20].

Considering the context of menopause management, while the potential for endocrine disruption warrants caution, particularly with topical use in children, the current body of evidence does not strongly support a significant hormonal mechanism (either mimicking or blocking estrogen) as the primary driver of lavender's observed benefits for menopausal symptoms like anxiety and sleep in adult women using common routes like aromatherapy or oral Silexan. The well-documented neurological effects appear to be the more relevant pathways for explaining these benefits.

Safety First: Navigating Lavender Use Wisely

While lavender is generally considered safe when used appropriately, it's important to be aware of potential side effects, precautions, and interactions.

General Safety Profile

• Aromatherapy/Inhalation: Typically safe for adults [20]. Studies have used it safely for periods up to 12 weeks [36]. Direct contact with eyes or mucous membranes should be avoided [23].
• Topical Use: Generally well-tolerated, but dilution in a carrier oil (e.g., almond, olive, jojoba) is recommended to minimize risk of skin irritation [19]. Performing a patch test on a small area of skin (like the inner arm) and waiting 24 hours is advised before wider application, especially for those with sensitive skin [7]. Avoid applying to broken or open wounds [23].
• Oral Use: Consuming lavender as it naturally occurs in foods is likely safe [20]. Standardized oral supplements like Silexan have demonstrated a good safety profile in clinical trials at doses of 80-160 mg per day for up to 10 weeks or even longer in real-world settings [36]. However, ingesting undiluted lavender essential oil is not recommended and can be toxic [23].

Potential Side Effects

• Oral: The most common side effects reported with oral lavender supplements (like Silexan) are mild and transient gastrointestinal issues, such as constipation, diarrhea, nausea, or eructation ("lavender burps") [20]. Headache and increased appetite have also been occasionally reported [23].
• Topical: Skin irritation (irritant contact dermatitis) or allergic reactions (allergic contact dermatitis, hives/urticaria) can occur in susceptible individuals [20]. Symptoms may include redness, itching, rash, swelling, or blistering.
• Inhalation: Usually well-tolerated, but headache or coughing may occur in some people [20]. Rare reports mention nausea, vomiting, or chills after inhalation [23].

Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Due to insufficient safety data, lavender use (especially essential oils and supplements) should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding [20].
• Children: While inhalation may be safe [36], topical application of lavender oil products in young, prepubertal boys is controversial due to a potential, though debated, link to gynecomastia [20]. Oral use in children is generally not recommended without guidance from a knowledgeable healthcare provider [23].
• Surgery: Because lavender may slow down the central nervous system, it's recommended to discontinue use at least two weeks prior to any scheduled surgery to avoid potential interactions with anesthesia and other sedative medications used during and after the procedure [20].

Potential Drug Interactions

• Sedatives/CNS Depressants: This is the most significant area of potential interaction. Lavender possesses calming and sedative properties. Combining it with other substances that depress the central nervous system could lead to excessive drowsiness, sedation, or slowed breathing. This includes prescription sedatives (like benzodiazepines such as lorazepam, diazepam, alprazolam; barbiturates), narcotic pain relievers (like morphine, oxycodone), some antidepressants, sleep aids, anticonvulsants, as well as alcohol and other calming herbs (e.g., valerian, St. John's Wort) [23]. Consultation with a doctor is crucial before combining lavender with any of these. Notably, clinical trials specifically evaluating Silexan reported no drug interactions [45].
• Antihypertensives (Blood Pressure Medications): Lavender aromatherapy has been associated with reductions in blood pressure in some studies [31]. Therefore, combining lavender with medications intended to lower blood pressure could potentially result in blood pressure dropping too low (hypotension) [31]. Caution and monitoring are advised.
• Other Medications: While Silexan studies suggest a low risk of interaction [45], theoretical interactions with anticonvulsants have been mentioned [47]. Given the complexity of drug-herb interactions, it is always wisest to discuss lavender use with a healthcare provider if taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications.

Importance of Professional Consultation

Before incorporating lavender, particularly oral supplements or regular therapeutic use of essential oils, it is essential to consult with a doctor, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare professional. This is especially critical for individuals with pre-existing health conditions, those taking any medications, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.7 It's also important to remember that essential oils and herbal supplements are not regulated by the FDA in the same way as pharmaceutical drugs, meaning quality and potency can vary, and claims of effectiveness may not always be substantiated.19 Lavender should be viewed as a potential complementary therapy and should not replace conventional medical treatments advised by a healthcare provider.38

The Takeaway: Lavender for Menopause - Hope, Hype, or Helpful Complement?

Synthesizing the available information paints a nuanced picture of lavender's role in managing the menopausal transition. Menopause is a natural phase, but its diverse symptoms – from hot flashes and sleep disruption to anxiety and mood changes – can significantly affect quality of life. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) emerges from a long history of traditional use for calming and sleep into the realm of modern scientific investigation.

The strongest evidence currently supports the use of a specific, standardized oral lavender oil preparation (Silexan) for reducing symptoms of anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder and anxiety co-occurring with depression [36]. Given that anxiety is a frequent companion to menopause, this finding is particularly relevant. Lavender aromatherapy, primarily through inhalation, shows promise for improving sleep quality, likely linked to its anxiety-reducing effects, although evidence is less consistent than for Silexan [15]. Aromatherapy may also offer some benefit for reducing the frequency of hot flashes, though this is largely based on findings from a single study population needing broader confirmation [10]. Evidence for improving sexual function is more preliminary and potentially related to indirect effects on mood and relaxation rather than direct physiological changes [20]. The underlying mechanisms appear primarily neurological, involving modulation of key neurotransmitter systems like GABA and serotonin, rather than significant direct hormonal action [27].

It is crucial, however, to acknowledge the limitations of the current research. Much of the evidence, especially for aromatherapy applications targeting symptoms other than anxiety, comes from smaller studies, specific populations, or trials with methodological weaknesses [20]. More high-quality, large-scale, and diverse clinical trials are needed to solidify these findings and determine optimal forms, dosages, and durations of use.

From a safety perspective, lavender is generally well-tolerated via common routes like aromatherapy, appropriate topical application (diluted), and standardized oral supplements like Silexan [20]. However, potential side effects (mostly mild GI upset with oral forms, skin irritation topically) and drug interactions (particularly with sedatives and potentially blood pressure medications) exist [31]. Caution is warranted in specific groups like pregnant/breastfeeding women and children [20].

Therefore, lavender should not be viewed as a universal remedy for all menopausal symptoms. Instead, it may serve as a potentially helpful complementary tool for some women, particularly for managing anxiety and related sleep disturbances, leveraging its calming effects on the nervous system. It is not a substitute for conventional medical care or treatments like hormone therapy when indicated. A holistic approach to navigating menopause often yields the best results, combining healthy lifestyle choices like diet and exercise [4], building strong support systems [4], and discussing all treatment options, including complementary therapies like lavender, with a trusted healthcare professional to create a personalized management plan.