Silexan (Lavender Oil 80 mg) — Supplements
Patented oral lavender oil extract with RCT-level evidence for generalized anxiety and sleep disturbance.
Overview
Silexan is a proprietary steam-distilled lavender oil preparation standardized to 80 mg per capsule (≥36% linalool, ≥30% linalool acetate), marketed as Lasea in Europe and Calm Aid in the United States. Multiple randomized controlled trials demonstrate efficacy for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) comparable to lorazepam 0.5 mg/day and paroxetine 20 mg/day, without dependence liability or cognitive impairment. Silexan also significantly improves sleep quality, restfulness, and daytime functioning in patients with anxiety-related insomnia. A 2014 Cochrane-reviewed meta-analysis confirmed superiority over placebo for anxiety (Hamilton Anxiety Scale reduction ~10 points vs ~5 for placebo). In Germany, Silexan holds prescription drug status (Lasea) specifically for mixed anxiety and restlessness. Its anxiolytic mechanism is distinct from benzodiazepines: modulation of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) and TRPV1, with downstream inhibition of serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT) and modulation of GABA-A receptor activity.
Indications
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) — mild to moderate
- Anxiety-related sleep disturbance and insomnia
- Restlessness and nervous tension
- Subthreshold anxiety not meeting full GAD criteria
Mechanism of Action
Linalool and linalool acetate inhibit voltage-gated calcium channels (N- and P/Q-type), reducing presynaptic neurotransmitter release in limbic and hippocampal circuits involved in anxiety
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silexan (Lasea / Calm Aid) | 80 mg | Once daily | Standard dose used in all Phase III RCTs; do not crush or open capsule |
Evidence Grade
GRADE C
Safety & Contraindications
- Generally well tolerated; most common AE is mild belching or nausea (lavender taste/aroma)
- No evidence of dependence, tolerance, or withdrawal — key advantage over benzodiazepines
- No clinically significant sedation or cognitive impairment at 80 mg dose
- Potential interaction with CYP3A4 substrates (linalool is a weak CYP3A4 inhibitor in vitro — clinical significance uncertain)
- Avoid in pregnancy — insufficient safety data
- May potentiate CNS depressants (alcohol, sedatives) mildly; use caution