Bioactive Constituents and Pharmacological Properties of Lavender Essential Oil: Molecular Mechanisms, Current Evidence, and Future Perspectives

Lavender essential oil (LEO) possesses broad therapeutic potential, yet translating empirical knowledge into evidence-based medicine is hindered by the descriptive literature that conflates isolated monoterpene mechanisms with whole-oil efficacy. Addressing these critical shortcomings, this review presents a target-centric synthesis that explicitly delineates the molecular pathways of pure constituents (e.g., linalool, linalyl acetate) versus intact LEO matrices and standardized oral preparations (Silexan™). We systematically integrate LEO’s multi-target signaling networks across neuroregulatory, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and skin-regenerative domains, while critically examining how genetic taxonomy, environmental stress, and green extraction technologies dictate chemotype diversity. Furthermore, we candidly address current evidence limitations, including pre-clinical predominance, publication bias, and clinical trial narrowness. Finally, we outline actionable translational strategies centered on chemotype-driven standardization, smart delivery systems, and a dual pharmacological paradigm that valorizes non-volatile processing byproducts. This synthesis establishes a rigorous theoretical foundation for LEO’s clinical translation and pharmaceutical standardization.