A cheap herbal supplement may offer an effective alternative to prescription anti-anxiety drugs, according to new research. Polish researchers reviewing multiple studies have found that pharmaceutical-grade lavender oil, taken orally as a daily capsule, can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety. At just 36p per dose, it has been shown to rival some of the most common prescription medications used for anxiety disorders.
The findings suggest that lavender oil could be particularly valuable as a non-addictive treatment option. Unlike many standard anti-anxiety medications—such as benzodiazepines and SSRIs—it does not carry the same risks of dependence or serious side effects. Common drawbacks of prescription anxiolytics include sexual dysfunction, liver damage, and chronic fatigue, making safer alternatives an important area of study.
Scientists believe lavender oil works by influencing the parasympathetic nervous system, which counterbalances stress and regulates bodily functions such as heart rate. In people with anxiety disorders, this system is often underactive. By supporting its function, lavender oil may help reduce stress responses and promote calmness.
Anxiety disorders remain one of the most widespread mental health issues in the UK, with more than eight million people affected at any given time. At the same time, prescriptions for anti-anxiety drugs have sharply increased, sparking concern among experts.
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Dr Hans-Peter Volz, a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, highlighted the dangers of overmedication: “The use, and misuse, of prescription anti-anxiety medication is rising. Doctors can be quick to medicate people who are experiencing emotional distress without exploring alternative options.”
He added that the new research was encouraging: “Pharmaceutical-quality lavender oil substantially alleviates anxiety symptoms across all severity levels, without the drawbacks associated with sedation and addiction. The results position it as an effective first-line treatment option, especially for patients with mild to moderate anxiety.”
The study’s conclusions arrive at a critical moment, as diagnoses of mental health conditions continue to rise worldwide. With demand for treatment increasing, experts stress the importance of considering safe, accessible, and effective alternatives alongside traditional medication. Lavender oil capsules may now be one such option, offering patients relief without the long-term risks.