Lavender oil has a long history of use, but scientists found the evidence supporting its antibacterial, antifungal, and calming claims is mixed and often inconclusive. While some research and real-world use suggest it may work for these purposes, the studies themselves have significant problems—different types of lavender oil weren't clearly identified, and testing methods weren't consistent, making it hard to know what actually works.

This was a review article that examined existing scientific and clinical research on lavender essential oil from multiple sources, rather than a new study testing lavender directly.

Funding not disclosed in abstract