The Effect of Lavender on Emotional Well-Being

The effectiveness of lavender aromatherapy in improving emotional well-being was evaluated using a pre-test, post-test design. Twenty-nine firefighters and emergency medical personnel completed the Visual Facial Anxiety Scale before and after a 5-minute lavender aromatherapy intervention. The population had high initial levels of well-being that was later contributed to social connectedness, civic and community engagement. Post-intervention the overall well-being of the group increased with the largest movement being from individuals that rated themselves as Somewhat Happy to Happy (n=10). A preference for the scent of lavender was the most significant indicator for change (p=0.0158). Lavender aromatherapy can be used as a tool to improve emotional well-being in individuals that prefer the scent. Future areas of research should focus on strengthening the links between lavender aromatherapy and well-being