Supplements

Lavender scent improves sleep quality and physical balance in elderly individuals

In a randomized controlled trial of 90 elderly participants, those who slept with lavender pouches for one month showed significant improvements in sleep quality (PSQI total score decreased from 6.11±2.86 to 4.33±2.07, p<0.05) and physical balance (BBS score increased from 38.31±11.84 to 41.48±10.82, p<0.05). Sleep latency also decreased significantly.

Last updated: Aug 26, 2026•1 RCTs•📖 Read as article →

Evidence Score

Evidence Score42/100
Human RCT★★☆☆☆
Meta-analysis☆☆☆☆☆
Mechanism★★★★★
Safety★★★★☆
Confidencelow

Study Evidence

Study 1. The effect of lavender scent recommended to the elderly on sleep quality and physical balance: A randomized controlled trial.

observational

&#xd6;zcihan H, Bayir B · Geriatric nursing (New York, N.Y.) (2026)

Participants: N/A
Duration: 1 month
Intervention: Sleeping with lavender pouches in pillows for one month
Outcome: Sleep quality (PSQI total score, sleep quality component, sleep latency) and physical balance (Berg Balance Scale score)
Effect Size: N/A
Population: Elderly individuals (mean age not specified, but sample of 90 elderly, 45 per group)

Result:

PubMed: 42623910DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2026.104248

Mechanism Graph

Lavender scent is inhaled during sleep
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Lavender aroma may activate olfactory pathways
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This may induce relaxation and reduce anxiety
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Result: Improved sleep quality and balance outcomes

Limitations

  • ⚠Abstract does not report blinding details or allocation concealment
  • ⚠No follow-up after the intervention period to assess long-term effects
  • ⚠No objective sleep measures (e.g., polysomnography) used
  • ⚠Potential placebo effect not fully addressed

Frequently Asked Questions

How long did the lavender intervention last?▼

The intervention lasted for one month, with participants sleeping with lavender pouches in their pillows.

What was the sample size and design?▼

The study was a randomized controlled trial with 90 elderly participants (45 in the lavender group, 45 in the control group).

What were the key outcomes measured?▼

Sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and physical balance was measured using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS).

Did the lavender group show significant improvements?▼

Yes, the lavender group showed significant improvements in sleep quality (PSQI total score decreased) and balance (BBS score increased) compared to pre-test, with p<0.05.

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References

  1. 1.&#xd6;zcihan H, Bayir B. "The effect of lavender scent recommended to the elderly on sleep quality and physical balance: A randomized controlled trial.." Geriatric nursing (New York, N.Y.), 2026. PMID: 42623910 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2026.104248
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Evidence scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement or intervention.