Introduction

Lavender, or Lavandula, is a fragrant flowering plant from the mint family, called Lamiaceae. The plant originates in the Mediterranean, from the Middle East to the North Atlantic, and is now cultivated worldwide for its various beneficial properties.

Lavender shrubs are herbaceous and biennial, so they produce a flower in the second year of the life cycle, which can be a variety of colours, most commonly purple, but also pink, blue, and white. Within the genus of Lavandula exist 39 different species, the most common being Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender), Lavandula latifolia, and Lavandula lanata.¹

Lavender is used in several ways, including in food, perfumery, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, lavender can produce an essential oil, with a long history of use in alternative medicine and aromatherapy. The oils can have a calming effect, relaxing the nervous system and reducing stress and anxiety.

Studies have shown that lavender has analgesic (pain relieving) properties, interacting with cell receptors to relieve pain, and acting as an antimicrobial to inhibit bacterial growth and promote wound healing. Lavender also has anti-inflammatory effects, alongside the ability to act as an antioxidant, providing cell protection and allowing anti-ageing benefits.

In addition, lavender can be used to relax and soothe muscle aches and pains. The analgesic action can help reduce muscle pain, promoting muscle relaxation. With its anti-inflammatory abilities, lavender can help to reduce the pain associated with overworked muscles, helping improve blood supply, aid delivery of nutrients, and removal of waste products. This makes lavender a popular and natural solution to tired and aching muscles.

Background of lavender

Historical use in traditional medicine

The use of lavender can be traced back to ancient Egypt when it was used for embalming and religious ceremonies before use in ancient Greece as a perfume. In ancient Rome, lavender was used in bathing, and in the Middle Ages, it was used in perfumery and soap making. The first written record of lavender's use was noted in De Materia Medica, written 50-70 AD, which detailed the various medicinal plants available at the time, and explained lavender’s ability to soothe muscles and treat indigestion.²

Components of lavender essential oil responsible for its healing properties

Linalool, a type of alcohol commonly found in plants, forms one of the major components of lavender. Linalool has been found to inhibit the release of acetylcholine and modify ion channel function at neuromuscular junctions.³ Also, studies have shown that linalool can bind to the neurotransmitter glutamate to reduce stimulation of the central nervous system, resulting in calming and anticonvulsant effects.⁴ The scent of linalool can affect autonomic nerves, reducing fat breakdown along with energy consumption.

Another component of lavender is seen in linalyl acetate, which, along with Linalool, may lend lavender its antimicrobial properties, by reducing fungal spore formation.

Mechanisms of lavender in muscle relief

Analgesic properties of lavender

The exact mechanism of analgesic effect is unknown but may be involved with the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, along with lavender’s ability to modify the transmission of opioid neurotransmitters.⁵ Studies have compared the effect of lavender with the common opioid medication tramadol and found that although tramadol was a more potent pain killer, the use of lavender comes with fewer side effects compared to taking opioid medication.⁵

Anti-inflammatory effects on muscles

Lavender is known for possessing antioxidant properties. Antioxidants work to neutralise free radicals in the body, which can contribute to the inflammatory pathway, so lavender works to reduce oxidative stress. 

Relaxant qualities aiding in muscle tension reduction

Lavender oil and its constituent linalool have many physiological effects, such as antispasmodic abilities, working to inhibit nervous system excitation by hindering potassium-induced contractions at synapses, the region where neurons connect. Additionally, lavender appears to block cellular calcium channels, enabling the relaxation of tense muscles.⁶

Application of lavender for muscle aches

Topical use of lavender essential oil

When using lavender oil, it is essential to dilute it correctly to limit skin irritation. The oil can be diluted in a carrier oil, such as jojoba, coconut, or olive oils using approximately 1-2 drops of lavender oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. Additionally, before applying any oils to the skin a patch test is advised. Apply a couple of drops of the diluted solution to the wrist or arm and allow 24 hours to check for any skin irritation.

As a safety precaution, do not use lavender oil on any broken or irritated skin, along with other sensitive areas such as the eyes, nose, and ears. In the event of contact, rinse the area with carrier oil. Essential oils should not be ingested, as they are made for external use.

Pregnant women should use essential oils with caution or with physician guidance as they can have hormonal effects. Additionally, do not use essential oils on children or pets, to limit the chances of toxic effects. Lastly, some essential oils can cause photosensitive effects, so be aware of this after use and avoid the sun if possible.

Massage techniques for muscle pain relief

Massage is the manual manipulation of soft tissue for the desired result of muscle relaxation. There are multiple different types of massage available, including Swedish, deep tissue, sports massage, and aromatherapy, and within all these exist many techniques for muscle relaxation. One of these techniques, myofascial release, focuses on the fascia, a layer of connective tissue surrounding muscles. Slow, sustained pressure on the fascia can help relax areas that are tight or in spasm and promote tissue extensibility.⁷

Another technique is known as effleurage, where the hands and fingers are used with gentle pressure to create long gliding strokes. This can be used to warm up the body and increase blood flow to muscles, in preparation for deeper massage, which can consist of another technique, petrissage. This involves more kneading and squeezing of the muscles, releasing tension in tight muscles and fascia, and improving blood and lymphatic flow.

Friction is a technique involving quick, circular movements using the fingers or thumbs, to treat specific regions of tension and heating the tissues. Vibration involves using the fingers in rapid back and forth movements, with light pressure and can be used to improve scar tissue. Finally, tapotement involves rhythmic, percussive movements of tapping or cupping the body to stimulate the muscles and increase blood flow.⁸

Incorporating lavender in baths

Lavender-infused bath products can be purchased or created at home, utilising Epsom salt and lavender oils.

There are many benefits to soaking in a lavender-infused bath. Studies have shown that it can have mood boosting effects, improving energy levels and lowering levels of anger and frustration.⁹ Bathing in lavender can help with relaxation and improve sleep quality, along with research showing it can help to reduce pain following surgery.¹⁰ The anti-inflammatory effects on lavender can also have soothing and calming effects on the skin, helping to improve mild skin irritation. A lavender-infused bath can be used as aromatherapy, which also promotes relaxation and mood improvement.

Alternative methods and combinations

Lavender in combination with other essential oils

Lavender can be used in combination with many other essential oils, which can work to enhance the therapeutic value. Other useful essential oils include peppermint, which can be used for mental clarity and focus, and tea tree, used for purification and cleansing. Chamomile essential oil can enhance the calming and soothing effect of lavender, whilst combining with eucalyptus oils could help to improve breathing. In addition, studies have found that when combined with other essential oils, the antimicrobial effect of lavender becomes more potent.¹¹

Integrating lavender into holistic approaches for overall well-being

As previously detailed, there are many ways to start using lavender to improve whole body health. Aromatherapy can be an option, by using a reed diffuser or steamer to spread the scent. Lavender-infused baths and massage with lavender oil can all help, along with utilising lavender oils in yoga or meditation practices.

Safety considerations

When using lavender essential oil, it is important to be mindful of allergies and potential adverse reactions. Ensure that the oil is always diluted correctly and perform a patch test before widespread use. Additionally, before incorporating something new into your daily health regimen, ensure to always consult healthcare professionals, especially in the case of pregnant women or those with other health conditions. Ensure to always follow the product guidelines and keep out of reach of children and pets.

Summary

To conclude, lavender is a powerful medicinal herb that has been used for many years, in multiple different industries. Research has found that lavender can be incredibly effective in soothing muscle aches, due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidising and pain-relieving properties.

Lavender can be used in a variety of ways to relax and soothe tired muscles, including diluted for topical use, infused in water for bathing, or during massage, where several different techniques can be used. Lavender can be used in combination with other oils to holistically improve well-being in a natural and effective way. However, safety must always be considered when introducing the use of essential oils into daily life, and correct dilution practices must be followed.