Lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia) is one of the most popular essential oils.
Lavender oil known for its calming effects, and is mainly used for relaxation and anxiety, and better sleep.
It is a versatile oil that suitable also useful for:
- Promote healing of burns and speed wound recovery
- Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal infections
- Calm allergies and reduce inflammation
- Help to lessen redness and irritation of eczema, and cleanse your skin
- Reduce menstrual cramps and other PMS symptoms (irritability, anxiety and fluid retention)
The name “lavender” dates back to ancient times and derives from the Latin word lavare, which means washing and bathing. According to Romans, not only the aromatic qualities but also antiseptic properties were important. Lavender oil is known for anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that are due to active components such as linalool, linalyl acetate, lavandulol, geraniol, or eucalyptol.
Lavender and anxiety:
Smelling lavender oil can interact with the neurotransmitter GABA to help quiet the brain and nervous system activity. According to research that been done in mice.
Lavender is well known in traditional medicine for its calming effects, it helps to reduce stress levels and anxiety and to promote restful sleep.
HOW TO USE?
In the bath:
Add 8 drops of lavender to a base oil for example- almond/grapeseed/coconut oil, mix well and then add to your bath.
Add some Epsom salts or magnesium flakes for an extra calming bath.
Massage oil:
Add 10-15 drops to 2 tablespoons of warm base oil.
Lavender hydrosol- floral water:
Lavender hydrosol is resulting from the steam distillation of lavender essential oil.
The hydrosol contains a small percentage of essential oil, as well as water-soluble components of the plant material.
You can use it as a face toner, air freshener and pillow mist.
Sources:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00241/full
Neals yard remedies- Essential oils book
Pazit Azoulay is a certified naturopath based in London, member of the following regulatory bodies: NNA, CNHC and GNC.
Paz By Nature ltd website is a health & wellness blog aimed to provide inspiration, healthy recipes and information about natural remedies.
