The efficacy of lavender oil on perineal trauma: a review of the evidence

Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2011 Nov;17(4):215-20. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2011.01.003. Epub 2011 Feb 22.

Abstract

Anecdotal evidence suggests that some women find lavender oil effective at relieving some of the symptoms associated with perineal trauma following childbirth. This paper examines the literature detailing the efficacy of lavender oil in wound care in an attempt to place these findings into the context of perineal trauma. The discussion and findings may assist midwives to proceed in a more informed manner in the absence of scientific evidence to underpin the practice of lavender oil use in the perineal context.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lavandula / chemistry*
  • Obstetric Labor Complications / drug therapy*
  • Oils, Volatile / pharmacology
  • Oils, Volatile / therapeutic use*
  • Perineum / injuries*
  • Perineum / surgery
  • Phytotherapy*
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use
  • Plant Oils / pharmacology
  • Plant Oils / therapeutic use*
  • Postnatal Care / methods
  • Pregnancy
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Wound Healing / drug effects*

Substances

  • Oils, Volatile
  • Plant Extracts
  • Plant Oils
  • lavender oil