Which chronic gastrointestinal conditions warrant starting lavender infusion at a significantly weaker strength?
Severe Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Although lavender is sometimes suggested for digestive relief, for individuals managing established, chronic gastrointestinal disorders, introducing any new, strongly flavored herb carries a risk of triggering an adverse reaction. People dealing with conditions such as severe Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) have highly sensitive and compromised digestive tracts. In these cases, the introduction of lavender, even in a standard tea infusion, could potentially exacerbate underlying symptoms, possibly leading to cramping, increased spasms, or diarrhea. Therefore, the recommended approach for these specific groups is extreme caution: start with a vastly weaker infusion, perhaps utilizing only a few lavender buds per cup, to carefully test the gut's tolerance before considering incorporating it into a regular consumption pattern.
