Lavender Precautions: A Closer Look at Safe Use
This article is part of our Lavender Safety Series. In this post, we’ll explore important precautions, and in Part 1, you can read the full guide to lavender safety.
Lavender is beloved for its calming aroma and versatile uses, but like any powerful plant, it deserves respect. Knowing when to be cautious ensures you and your family enjoy lavender safely—whether it’s in the kitchen, on your skin, or diffused in the air.
Use Culinary-Grade Lavender Only
Not all lavender is meant for eating. Always use culinary-grade lavender clearly labeled for food use. This ensures the flowers are safe, free from chemical treatments, and pleasant in flavor. Avoid using decorative lavender in teas or recipes.
Keep Oral Doses Moderate
Lavender supplements such as Silexan have been studied in doses of 80–160 mg/day for up to 10 weeks. Going beyond researched amounts offers no added benefit and may increase risk of side effects like nausea or headache.
⚠️ Do not ingest lavender essential oil. Essential oils are highly concentrated and toxic when swallowed, even in small amounts. The American Association of Poison Control Centers warns that ingestion can cause vomiting, drowsiness, or worse.
Dilution and Patch Testing
Before applying lavender oil to your skin, always dilute it in a carrier oil. The American College of Healthcare Sciences recommends a 2% dilution (about 12 drops per ounce of carrier).
Apply a small amount to your inner forearm and wait 24 hours to check for redness, itching, or irritation before wider use.
Extra Caution for Young Boys
Some studies have raised concerns that lavender may affect hormone balance in prepubescent boys. While evidence is limited, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health advises using caution.
Until more research is available, avoid using lavender oil daily or long-term on young children.
Pregnancy & Nursing Precautions
The Mayo Clinic recommends avoiding essential oil ingestion during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- No ingestion: Lavender essential oil should never be swallowed.
- Topical/aromatherapy: May be safe if diluted, but consult your doctor first.
- Third trimester caution: Lavender’s mild relaxing effect may influence hormones and uterine tone.
Always check with your OB-GYN before use.
Be Mindful of Sedatives & Medications
Lavender can increase drowsiness when combined with sleep aids, anti-anxiety drugs, or alcohol. The Cleveland Clinic notes that mixing lavender with sedatives may intensify effects.
If you are scheduled for surgery, discontinue essential oils ahead of time and discuss with your anesthesiologist.
Keep Essential Oils Away from Children
Lavender oil should always be stored in childproof containers. Even 2 mL can be harmful to children if ingested. The American Academy of Pediatrics reminds parents that essential oils should be treated like medicine and kept out of reach at all times.
Choose Reputable Products
Lavender supplements and oils are not tightly regulated. Look for brands tested by independent groups like USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab to ensure purity and accurate labeling. This is especially important when purchasing capsules or concentrated oils.
Quick Precautions Checklist
- ✅ Use only culinary lavender in food and teas.
- ✅ Dilute essential oil and always patch test.
- ✅ Consult your doctor during pregnancy or nursing.
- ✅ Store oils in childproof bottles out of reach.
- ✅ Buy from trusted, tested brands.
- ❌ Never ingest lavender essential oil.
- ❌ Don’t combine lavender with sedatives without medical advice.
Lavender is natural, but “natural” doesn’t always mean risk-free. By following these simple precautions, you can enjoy its calming benefits with confidence.
🌿 Missed the first part of our series? Visit Lavender Safety: How to Use Lavender the Right Way for a complete overview of lavender safety.