Lavender is truly timeless. This gorgeous shrub, with long spikes of purple flowers, has been used since ancient times and its popularity is still going strong. Originally only found in the Mediterranean region, lavender is now grown all over the world. It is steam distilled to make into an essential oil.
Lavender is a member of the mint family, and there are almost 40 different varieties that go by the lavender name. The most common form of lavender is Lavandula angustifolia. Spike lavender, or Lavandula latifolia, is another.
Lavender oil is a jack-of-all-trades in the world of aromatherapy. It is useful on so many levels, working to soothe and calm all three terrains (mind, body, and spirit) and it makes a beautiful addition to blends for all occasions. Here are some of the most popular uses and benefits of lavender oil:
Promotes sleep – Lavender is often the first essential oil reached for when looking to help promote sleep. Lavender’s calming and soothing properties help relax both the body and mind and is a great support oil in a blend.
Relieves stress and anxiety – Lavender oil ushers in peace and promotes balance in every aspect of the physical, emotional, and spiritual/energetic terrains.
Reduces pain and inflammation – Lavender oil contains natural components that work to ease pain and reduce inflammation. It is often used in blends to help alleviate muscle aches and tension, ease cramps and spasms, relieve joint pain and rheumatism, soothe sprains, and much more.
Nourishes skin and hair – Lavender oil is a beautiful choice for helping to promote overall skin and hair health and radiance.
Soothes sanitizes and heals damaged skin – Lavender’s purifying, analgesic, and skin cell regenerative properties make it wonderful for soothing cuts, scrapes, and minor wounds. Lavender can also help soothe skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Treats acne – Lavender oil inhibits bacteria and can help regulate over-production of sebum, the skin’s natural oily secretions.
Naturally Repels Insects – Studies have shown that lavender works naturally to repel insects including mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and lice.
Soothes bug bites and stings – Its soothing and pain-relieving properties make lavender oil so helpful for relieving insect bites and stings. Lavender’s purifying abilities also help defend against infection, too!
Purifies – Lavender oil has antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a perfect addition to blends intended to purify skin, surfaces, and air.
Applications
Add a few drops to lotions, shampoos, and skin care products for a classic aroma and more youthful complexion.
Add 4 drops of Lavender and 1 cup of Epsom salt to a bath to create a relaxing environment.
Unwind in the evening with a calming, Lavender-infused neck or back massage.
Use Lavender as part of a bedtime routine by rubbing it on the bottoms of your feet or diffusing it next to your bed.
Add it to V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex and apply topically to soothe the skin after a day in the sun.
Where to Diffuse
Fill your bedroom with Lavender’s calming aroma in the evening for a soothing space conducive to sleep.
Infuse the nursery with the gentle floral scent during naptime for a welcoming and restful environment that sets your little one up for sweet dreams.
Unwind with a spa-like setting anywhere by combining Lavender with other luxurious scents such as Eucalyptus, Bergamot, or Cedarwood.
Experience
Lavender essential oil has a floral, calming scent that can be used aromatically or topically.
Topical: Apply 2–4 drops directly to desired area. Dilution not required, except for the most sensitive skin. Use as needed.
Aromatic: Diffuse up to 1 hour 3 times daily.
Main image by Léonard Cotte on Unsplash
Hey Denny,
Thanks a million for sharing and your kind words. That´s encouraged me to get another article about an oil out. Any particular essential oils you´d like me to write about?