English lavender (*Lavandula angustifolia*) comes from the flowering tops of the plant. It has a long history in herbal practices across Europe and beyond.
People reach for lavender mainly when they want help winding down. Many find it useful for settling occasional nervous tension or preparing the body for sleep. Some adults also use it to maintain an even mood.
You can buy it as dried flower for tea, an essential oil for aromatherapy, or in oral capsules and softgels. For sleep, a dose shortly before bedtime is common. Aromatherapy is a frequent first choice. If you choose an oral product, take it with food and follow the label closely.
Oral lavender can make you drowsy. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if that happens. Never swallow undiluted essential oil, it is for external use or specially formulated oral products only. Lavender may add to the effects of sedatives and medications for anxiety, sleep, or blood pressure. It also has mild estrogen-like activity, so anyone with a hormone-sensitive condition should consult a professional before using it.