Lavender inhalation was linked to better sleep scores in older adults
A review found improved sleep-quality scores overall, but substantial variation between studies and unresolved questions about lasting effectiveness and safety.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
The review found an overall improvement in sleep-quality scores in older adults with sleep disorders who received inhaled lavender. However, results varied substantially across studies. This abstract-based summary describes preliminary evidence on sleep assessment; it does not establish a dependable benefit for every older adult or show that long-term use is safe.
Results varied substantially between studies, and the abstract does not identify comparison conditions or treatment lengths. The authors describe the evidence as preliminary and say effectiveness and safety, particularly with longer use, need further study.
How sleep was assessed
All included studies administered lavender by inhalation. Most used the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, so the pooled result mainly reflects questionnaire-based sleep assessment rather than a uniform measure applied identically across every trial.
Understanding the statistical scale
The pooled estimate puts sleep scores on a common statistical scale. It describes a difference in sleep quality, not additional hours asleep or a percentage improvement. Substantial variation between studies limits how uniformly that average can be interpreted.
The original publication
A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials on lavender for sleep disorders in older adults.
Ostovar M, Khademizadeh MH, Namjoyan F et al.
Exp Gerontol · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 41057090
- Record checked
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