The Essential Oil of Lavandin - A Hybrid of Two Very Different Lavenders

Lavandin (Lavandula x hybrida or Lavandula x intermedia) is in the mint family (Lamiaceae or Labiatae). It is a hybrid plant developed by crossing this with spike lavender or aspic. It does not have a long history-probably only 50-60 years. Lavandin in general is a larger plant than it with woody stems. Its flowers may be blue like true lavender or grayish like aspic. The fragrance is similar to it although it is sharper and a more powerful scent than true lavender. When steam distilled it yields a higher amount of oil than either true lavender or aspic. It is extensively used in soaps, detergents, room sprays, hair preparations and industrial perfumes since it is cheaper to obtain than true lavender.

Traditionally it has been used to sterilize the animal cages in veterinary clinics and hospitals throughout Europe. Why grow lavandin when you could just as easily grow lavender? Obviously there must be a logical explanation. Unscrupulous vendors will cut it with lavandin which is cheaper to produce and has a higher yield than true lavender.

Lavandin has antibacterial and antifungal properties and is well suited to help with respiratory, circulatory and muscular conditions. However, if you look at its chemistry, you will find that it has 5-12% camphor which if applied to an open wound or a burn will cause severe pain. This is not the case with true lavender which is healing for burns.

The main effects of lavandin are expectorant and antiviral. It can be applied neat on the body, directly inhaled or diffused. It blends well with clove, cinnamon, citronella, cypress, pine, clary sage, geranium thyme, patchouli, rosemary and citrus oils, especially bergamot and lime. As for safety, do not use this oil on a burn, instead use true lavender. It is non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitizing. Want to learn more about the healing properties of lavandin and other essential oils? Consider becoming a certified aromatherapist. Educational courses in healing energy and aromatherapy can help you understand how essential oils heal the body/mind/spirit.

Check this out for more information on learning to heal through the art of aromatherapy as a clinical aromatherapist. http://www.ISHAaromatherapy.com - For educational courses on healing energy and the laying-on of hands, you can go to http://www.HTSpiritualMinistry.com

You can also read more about aromatherapy and lavandin essential oil in Linda Smith's books: Called into Healing, Reclaiming our Judeo-Christian Legacy of Healing Touch, and Healing Oils Healing Hands, Discovering the Power of Prayer, Hands On Healing and Anointing. You can find these books and much more on my web site at http://www.ISHAhealing.com/HealingStore/tabid/348/Default.aspx

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Lee_Smith

Tuscan Garden Design Ideas - Lavender In Italian Gardens

Lavender has become a strong symbol of the Italian garden and subsequently the Tuscan style garden and it's use will clearly suggest a Mediterranean feel in any garden. However it does require some quite specific maintenance and the number of old, woody and dying lavender plants in many gardens stand as strong testament to this fact.

A plant of Mediterranean origin, it thrives on free draining soils and adores full sun but these factors alone are not enough to keep the lavender plant healthy and vigorous. Like most Mediterranean plants the lavender has become used to being burnt in scrub fires and thus requires e reproduction of these conditions in our gardens (see www.lifeinitaly.com/garden/pruning.asp)

To maintain your lavender plant in perfect condition the most important maintenance steps are these;

- prune the dead flower stalks off after flowering with secateurs, without cutting into the leaves

- apply a pottassium based fertiliser in the autumn to aid root growth

- prune harder into the leaf layer with shears in March (or when growth starts) and leave a shape that follows the natural shape of the plant, without cutting lower than where the vegetative growth starts (into the brown part of the stem).

- apply a gravel-based mulch at around 3-4 inches

- apply a Nitrogen, Pottassium and Phosphorous fertilizer and water well.

If these steps are followed then your lavender plant will most definitely flourish!

Here in Tuscany they say that a lavender will die after 7 ears if it is not pruned correctly!

Good varieties are;

Lavandula officinalis

Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote blue' or

Lavandula stoechas

For more tips on growing Mediterranean plants see www.lifeinitaly.com/garden/lavender-plants.asp or www.web-ecologica.com

Jonathan Radford is an English landscape designer, dedicated to creating ecological, Italian-style gardens from his base in Siena, Tuscany.

Contact him at info@web-ecologica.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Radford

Essential Oils - Lavender - A "Rescue Remedy" known as the Swiss Army Knife Among Essential Oils

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is in the mint family of botanical plants. The name Lavender comes from the Latin lavare, meaning "to wash." The Romans used to scent their bath water with the fragrant flowers of this plant. Lavender has a long history as a healing agent for both body and mind. Hildegard of Bingen spoke highly of its use and recommended it for many ailments. The English lavender or "true lavender," has the most medicinal properties among the various varieties. Today lavender is a popular oil in the perfume industry and is used in a host of products including skin care. Lavender will be one of your most used healing oils, it is truly an oil of calmness.

Why is Lavender Considered a Universal Healing Oil?

Lavender is good for just about everything. The most celebrated use of lavender is for burns. René Gattafossé, the father of aromatherapy suffered a severe burn over most of his body and used Lavender oil to heal his wounds without scarring. Lavender oil is also good for other skin conditions and insect bites and stings. It is good for repelling lice as well. Lavender can help problems like colic, irritable bowel, menstrual pain, and muscular stiffness and aching. Its antiseptic properties make it an effective treatment for flu, bronchitis and pneumonia and it may help with genital-urinary infections when added to bath water. Lavender has been called "a universal healing oil." Lavender oil calms and stabilizes the mind and heart bringing about a sense of equilibrium. It can ease nervous tension and decrease feelings of panic and hysteria. In this regard, it is a wonderful "rescue remedy" calming strong emotions that threaten to overwhelm the person. Lavender is helpful in lifting sadness and depression. For emotional healing, it can be used to encourage security, gentleness, compassion, reconciliation, vitality, clarity, comfort, acceptance, awareness, and emotional balance.

Lavender mixes well with Roman and German chamomile, lemon, geranium, eucalyptus, thyme linalool, rosemary, tea tree, peppermint, grapefruit, clary sage, palmarosa, juniper, cypress, pine, angelica, marjoram, cedarwood, bergamot, lemongrass, and ravensara.

As for application, lavender can be diffused, inhaled with steam, used with warm compresses, and applied neat (undiluted) on the body at places of discomfort. It can be used as an anointing oil for the brow, hands, feet and energy centers. It can be applied to the healers hands and run through the energy field to clear stagnant energy and to calm fears. Lavender is non-toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitizing. Want to learn more about the healing properties of lavender and other essential oils? Consider becoming a certified aromatherapist. Educational courses in healing energy and aromatherapy can help you understand how essential oils heal the body/mind/spirit. The Institute of Spiritual Healing & Aromatherapy is teaching courses on the healing properties of essential oils throughout the United States including lavender oil.

BONUS GIFT

By Going to my web site: http://www.ISHAhealing.com and signing up for our free monthly newsletter, you can receive a free gift: 5 Monographs on Biblical Oils.

These oils include Frankincense, Myrrh, Cedarwood, Spikenard and Balsam Fir. While you are at our web site, check out our aromatherapy program and our program in Christian energy healing.

From Linda L. Smith, director of the Institute of Spiritual Ministry and Aromatherapy, Inc.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Lee_Smith

Health Spa Treatments Using Lavender Herbs From Your Own Herb Garden

Health spa treatments can be costly. Have you ever considered creating your own home spa by using lavender and other herbs from your own herb garden? After all of the hours you spent planting and tending to your herb plants, reap another benefit by using your herbs to make herbal cosmetics, herbal teas or herbal medicines and by all means as ingredients for a home spa. Some people have spaghetti herb gardens, or salad gardens even headache gardens, consider this your own Spa Herb Garden!

For very soft touchable skin use Lavender or Calendula leaves and petals. Bruise the leaves and petals and put them into a glass jar. Pour enough olive oil into the jar to cover the herbs. Set the jar on a sunny window and shake everyday for two to three weeks. Strain the oil through cheese cloth pressing on the solids to remove all essential oils. Reseal the jar and place in a dark place. The herbal oil should last up to one year. This soothing Lavender oil can be applied directly to the skin or used in a bath.

Put lavender flowers and leaves into a warm bath and soak. Or put them in a muslin bag which you will hook over the running water while filling the tub. The Lavender will fill your bathroom with a wonderful scent. Since Lavender is known for its calming effect, what better way to relax after a day of gardening than a long soothing bath filled with Lavender?

Lavender is a natural anti depressant so place bowls of dried lavender around the house. Or since Lavender is known for its claming effect, boil a large pot of water, throw in the lavender, and place a towel over your head as you bend down over the pot. Inhale in the delightful smell and feel its soothing properties from the steam on your skin.

Another lovely way to use Lavender is to sew them into little bags and put them between your pillow and pillow case. The beautiful calming scent will help you sleep.

Calendulas may also be used in the bath. An even better way to use this herb is as an antiseptic. Again, bruise the leaves and flowers and add them to olive oil. It will relieve stings, chapped lips, cuts and burns.

To make you're won spa loofahs plant Luffa aegyptiaea. For a home spa tool grow the plant in full sun in a place where the plant can climb. When you harvest it, soak it in water to soften the brown skin, peel and set out in the sun to dry. Save the seeds for your next years Spa Herb Garden.

Now let's make some refreshing teas using herbs from your herbal garden for use in your mini home spa. Most people look at roses as just beautiful blooms, but rose hips have more vitamin C than oranges. The little round balls in the center of the rose is the hips. Gather them and grind them in a coffee grinder. Steep them in very hot water, not boiling, for about ten minutes and enjoy your fruity tea.

For a calming tea try Chamomile or for a refreshing tea try Lemon balm. All of these herbs can be grown in your own yard and will create a wonderful home health spa experience.

Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.

This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=92272&ca=Gardening

Herbal Essence - The Pleasure Of Lavender

Great aromas can evoke great memories and warm feelings. A fresh hot apple pie cooling on the windowsill, freshly mown grass on a warm spring day or a clean shirt taken directly from the dryer. The scents such things give off can induce a feeling of happiness, calmness and pleasantness. Clearly our sense of smell is as important in shaping our lives as seeing or hearing. However, in addition to creating great memories what else can our sense of smell do for us as far as creating a well-balanced life?

The answer is directly related to our sleeping habits. In this hectic and frantic world everyone is busy, overworked and fatigued. As a result few of us get the required sleep needed to enjoy a healthy and productive lifestyle. Without getting the proper amount of sleep each night we are effectively decreasing our lifespan and quality of life. But what has this got to do with our sense of smell? The answer is lavender.

It is well documented that the essence of lavender oil has been used as an old time remedy to help people fall asleep faster. Modern day research is starting to confirm the sedative qualities of lavender. It has been found to increase total sleep time, improve deep sleep and make people feel more refreshed in the morning. The lavender begins to work quickly so you can fall asleep faster.

Now we know lavender and our noses make a great pair, but how do we get the two together? Fortunately there are a number of ways to make this happen. For instance many aromatherapies use lavender as a base for their scents. There are also sleep mists, lavender aroma satchels and lavender bath oils and soaps. All of these items can be purchased at fairly inexpensive prices for home use. Try using a few drops of lavender oil in your bath and along with lavender scented soap. Perhaps you may prefer to slip a lavender satchel under your pillow at night or spray your bed linens with a lavender sleep mist. The combinations are endless.

So let's use our sense of smell to benefit from the healthful properties of lavender and start getting our much deserved sleep. Sweet dreams.

Sherry Harris used to have problems sleeping. Now she gets a good night sleep with aromatic sleeping mist fragrances. If you are tired of insomnia, visit http://www.ScentToSleep.com Why don't you bookmark the article you are reading right now? You know you will want to find it again soon.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sherry_L_Harris

Different Types of Lavender Shower Curtains You to Choose

Most people hardly spend time in their bathrooms. But then, the time that they spend is considerable enough to make an effort to make the bath an attractive place. There are a host of bathroom accessories available with the help of which you can make your bathroom really an inviting, warm and attractive place. Shower curtains are one such accessory which adds beauty and colour to the bathrooms.

Especially for those who lead hectic lifestyles and do not care to relax while having a shower, neat and attractive shower curtains will instigate them to spend more time having a refreshing bath. For them taking a shower or bath is like a small job which is inevitable just to keep them clean. But what these people fail to realize is that they can really unwind and soothe their nerves by having a refreshing shower in a bathroom which is nicely decorated to their taste and personality.

For this, to make their bathrooms a really cool place to be in, they need to have pretty and appealing shower curtains. We are all aware that shower curtains come in all sorts of colours, designs, styles and shapes and sizes. We have to carefully choose the shower curtain which will match our personality then only when we enter the bathroom for a bath we will fell feel at home and relaxed. This is why we have to take into consideration the colour of the shower curtain before we think of decorating the bathroom.

People were always under the impression that shower curtains were meant only for one purpose that is to keep the water from splashing all over the place. But shower curtains are much more than that. They give a certain sense of privacy when you are having your shower other than preventing the formation of puddles on the bathroom floor. Shower curtains help to enhance not only your bathroom but also speak volumes about your style and personality.

The colour Lavender belongs to the violet family of colours and it is actually a tint of violet. And lavender is one colour which is a great favourite among many. Lavender is also a colour which is soothing to the eye.

A mild lavender shade is especially very pleasing. This colour also enhances the ambience and feel of the place where it is used. The shower curtains lavender come in all hues of violet colour mostly on the milder side. These shower curtains lavender come in all the different types of materials and they also come in exclusive designs.

You can find these shower curtains lavender in departmental stores that sell household things. Here you will come across a variety of lavender shower curtains. Another good place to look for shower curtains lavender is the internet. Here you will find a list of companies that are offering different types of lavender shower curtains for you to choose from

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/different-types-of-lavender-shower-curtains-you-to-choose-357335.html

Lavender: Add A Relaxing Element To Your Herb Garden.

There are various types of lavender however the three main types of lavender that are most popular are the English, French and Italian varieties. There are many varieties of lavender that have been hybridized which makes them quite easy to grow hardy. The only downside is that if you grow the seeds they will revert back to the original plant. Hybrid varieties of lavender have larger flowers so if you are after a lavender plant that looks good then a hybrid version is what you are looking to find.

If you are adding lavender to your herb garden for the purpose of harvesting the oil or doing other craft work then you need to plant English lavender is the perfect choice as it has a very strong scent. English lavender is without a doubt the most popular variety of lavender. English lavender is recognizable by its small compact bushy appearance, which normally reaches about three feet tall. It has very striking sliver leaves and small mauve flowers that appear at the end of the long stems. The flowers that appear on English lavender plants also come in shades of blue, white and pink as well as mauve. Gardeners will find the highest concentration of oil located in the flowers of the lavender plant.

The French variety of lavender is well known as the most hardy variety of lavender and will generally reach a height of around five feet. If the plant is relieved of spent blooms regularly you will see that your plant will bloom for almost nine months out of the year which makes French lavender an excellent value for your money. The blossoms from French lavender can be trimmed and dried and used in crafts such as potpourri and sleep pillows. If you find a nice sunny spot for your French lavender you will be rewarded with blossoms that are very rich in color.

Italian lavender is the smallest of the three varieties of lavender as it only grows to be around two feet tall. You will find that Italian lavender is a bit more scarce then the English and French lavender but it is well worth the time and energy if you take the time to grow it. Italian lavender is not as highly scented as the other two varieties but will make a very pretty small hedge or ground cover.

The optimal time to harvest lavender flowers for drying is to do so just before the very last flowers have opened. You should harvest the blooms while the weather is still cool so that you will be able to retain the most oil essence. Hand the harvested lavender in a shady and well ventilated area to dry and then remove the flowers from the stems and store in an airtight container.

Most all varieties of lavender prefer to be grown in a sunny area with well-drained soil.

Lavender has been used as a cure for faintness and has a very calming effect. Lavender is also very good if used cosmetically to take care of oily skin problems.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=245554&ca=Gardening

Lavender Essential Oil Is An Important Tool In Aromatherapy

Lavender Essential Oil which is used in aromatherapy is often distilled from the purple blossoms of the plant and is extracted by a process using water or steam.

Because the lavender oil is extracted in this way it often captures the absolute essence of the lavender plant itself and normally on a few drops of this highly concentrated oil is required to reap its full therapeutic benefits.

Normally lavender oil is clear in colour but occasionally it may have a yellow tint to it. Although many people think because it is called Lavender Oil it will actually be an oily substance, when actually it is one of the thinnest consistency to be found among all the essential oils that are available.

As the consistency of lavender oil is so thin the smell will often not be too strong and it is found to be one of the most relaxing scents to be found of all the oils used in aromatherapy. Not only does it smell fresh, but it is also sweet with a slight floral aroma to it. Some people have even suggested that it smells a little fruity.

As with most essential oils when being used in aromatherapy lavender oil must be diluted with a carrier oil such as sweet almond, apricot kernel or grape seed oil.

Once the lavender oil has been diluted with the carrier oil it usually applied to a persons skin for best absorption. But as well as applying lavender oil to the skin it may also be used by inhaling. Once the lavender oil molecules have entered the lungs then they are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and will result in soothing whatever ailments you are experiencing at the time of treatment.

Certainly there are a number of common ailments which aromatherapy using lavender oil may help to treat are as follows:

- Acne
- Allergies
- Anxiety
- Asthma
- Athlete's Foot
- Flatulence
- Itching

Lavender oil can also be used to help in the treatment of bruises, burns, colic and chicken pox and those people who have cuts, or are suffering from depression or have earache may also find lavender oil beneficial. It is also an effective natural insect repellent.

Use blended oil massaged into the skin for a soothing and relaxing experience. This oil can be a great massage oil as well as an aromatic oil for reducing anxiety. Just put a few drops in a hot bath and soak yourself to relaxation. If you are having trouble with your skin or want a unique facial, lavendar oil can do the trick. Make sure you buy blended oils from a trustworthy source and never take any essential oils internally unless you are under the care of a licensed professional.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/non-fiction-articles/lavender-essential-oil-is-an-important-tool-in-aromatherapy-85756.html

Lavender Oil: Lure Of A Lusty Life

Using of essential oils in aromatherapy is inevitable. Various essential oils contribute their significance in aromatherapy. One among such oils is lavender oil.

Lavender oil is extracted from lavender tree that is also known as Lavendula officinalis. During the extraction of this oil, a delicate process is followed, where generally water or steam is used. The oil, distilled from lavender tree contains the pure scent of the tree itself. Lavender oil looks clear with a bit touch of yellow. This oil is not so oily. Hence, in aromatherapy, this oil is considered as one among the thinnest essential oils.

The odor of lavender oil is medium and considered as one of most relaxing smell. Normally, this aroma is neither so strong nor so light; instead the smell is sweet. In aromatherapy, while diluting lavender oil, mainly sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil or grape seed oil is used as carrier oils.

Lavender oil in aromatherapy is used for treating various diseases. Massaging with mingled lavender oil can bring the effect of relaxation and calmness. In aromatherapy, many skin problems, like, acne, allergies, oily skin, scar skin, stretch marks etc can be treated with lavender oil. Hot bath with a few drops of the oil will assure you about relieving anxiety, whereas, a cool bath with this oil will bring a feeling of refresh. Lavender oil can act as facial and skin oil superlatively for healing various skin problems.

Massaging with this oil works effectively in case of headache, on the other hand, in healing of hypertension, sunburn pain, insects’ or mosquitoes’ bite, bruises, minor-burn, blisters, athlete’s foot, reduce labor pain, lavender oil works well indeed.

Lavender oil can be kept in First Aid box. With this oil, minor injuries, like burns, cut etc can be healed. Many a time, lavender oil is used in treatment of various nervous problems, such as, insomnia, migraine, nervous tension, stress, PMS, restlessness etc. In such cases, in aromatherapy, patients are recommended simply to inhale the fragrance that effects on the central nervous system positively. Respiratory problems like, asthma, bronchitis, halitosis, throat infection, whooping cough can be solved with lavender oil as well.

But always keep in your mind to dilute it with some carrier oil before using and also make sure that there is no allergic reaction on the skin. At the same time, it is also recommended to be careful during the purchase of lavender oil.

Do you want to keep yourself healthy and being well? Usage of lavender oil will be the right option for you. With enormous advantages, this oil has become an important component of aromatherapy.

Cindy Boswell is working with the New Directions UK. She has also been involved in the research work on plants and oils for a long time. To find Lavender oil, tea tree oil, essential oils, wholesale, wholesalers, wholesale essential oils you need to visit http://www.newdirectionsuk.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cindy_Boswell

Lavender Essential Oil for Relaxation and to Heal Skin Problems

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has a sweet and floral scent that is not only pleasant to smell, it has many important therapeutic qualities for your health. You have to make sure you are buying a pure, medicinal-grade lavender, or you will be getting additives that don’t have any benefits other than the scent. One sure way to make sure you are getting a high-quality lavender essential oil is to check the back of the bottle – if it has a caloric value then it is safe to ingest, and therefore pure. Many of the oils on the market in health food stores do not have the caloric value, and you can’t ingest it.

LAVENDER OIL FOR RELAXATION
My favorite way to enjoy lavender oil and its benefits is by diffusing it into the air. Investing in a diffuser has many benefits, as the lavender oil is suspended in the air in your home and is absorbed through your nose directly to your brain and cells. It will help you relax and sleep deeply.

If you don’t own a diffuser, you can rub lavender oil on your feet for the calming effect. Within 20 minutes it will be present in every cell in your body! If you don’t want it on your body, you can put a few drops on your pillow next to your nose.

LAVENDER OIL FOR SKIN PROBLEMS
To stop the itching and swelling of a bee sting, put a drop of lavender oil on the sting directly. It will start feeling better immediately. You can put lavender oil on a cut to help assist in stopping bleeding. Lavender oil can assist with chapped or sunburned lips, scar tissue, cold sores, sunburns, open wounds, dandruff, and rashes.

Lavender oil can decrease the pain of minor burns, if you apply 2-4 drops of the oil to the affected area.

Do you have eczema or dermatitis? You know how difficult it is to rid yourself of unsightly eczema… use your lavender oil! Use a V-6 vegetable mixing oil with a few drops of the lavender oil and apply directly to the eczema.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/lavender-essential-oil-for-relaxation-and-to-heal-skin-problems-260306.html

Natural Uses of Lavender Oil

Lavender has many health benefits. It can be used to help individuals relax, get rid of tension, alleviate pain and increase blood circulation. It also can be used as a disinfectant agent and can help with respiratory problems.

Lavender oil can be quite effective in treating the nervous system. It has a calming effect is great to be used by individuals who want to relax or calm their nerves. It can also be used to treat migraine headaches, depression, stress and tension. Lavender oil is also good to help encourage mental alertness.

For individuals who suffer from insomnia, lavender oil can also be used to help them relax and go to sleep. It is also highly effective for relieving pain. Individuals who suffer from achy muscles, back pain, rheumatism, sore muscles, sprains and joint pain, may find that lavender oil allows them to treat their pain without the use of costly medication.

Lavender oil is a very powerful and lovely smelling, essential oil that has many fantastic uses. It can be used to treat tired, sore and tense muscles, as well as help one relax. Its’ tension reducing qualities have long been touted. Individuals that are familiar with essential oils, count lavender as one their favorites. The oil’s versatility means that the user can use the oil to treat a wide range of ailments or to prevent them from ever developing.

Lavender oil comes in various forms. The most common ones’ include oil (in it’s raw form), lotions and gels. You can find it at various specialty stores or online. An online search will yield you plenty of affordable lavender oil.

Individuals that want to use lavender oil can use it in a number of ways. They can apply it directly to the skin, it can be inhaled and it can be placed in one’s bath.

Lavender oil is one of the most popular and widely used essential oils. It is effective for treating a number of ailments including depression, stress, back, joint and muscle pains as well headaches. It is a safe essential oil and can be used and mixed with other essential oils. This means that you can mix your favorite oils and create a customized scent. Because the oil comes in different forms, you can choose the one which you feel most comfortable with.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/natural-uses-of-lavender-oil-419528.html

A Gift From Nature-Essential lavender Oil

Just try to imagine the the power of a plant that can can provide essential oils for gentle skin care, plus pain relief, healing of wounds and burns and much more?

Essential lavender oils have been proven to aid relaxation and promote harmony and a sense of well being.

These are but a few of the amazing properties of the beautiful, fragrant lavender flower.
Lavender the name, is from the word lavera which means to wash in latin, and this simple flower is quickly becoming renowned as the greatest source of essential oils available.
Consider for a moment that we are not exploring a substance created by chemicals, but one simply created by nature.....No prescription or high price tag either!

Essential lavender oils have a multitude of uses including;

Antiseptic

Fragrant oil

Deodorant

Massage Oil

Anti inflammatory

Fungicide

Insect repellent

Bath Oil

Aromatherapy

Headaches

Sunburn

lavender is also keenly sought for treatment of many many skin conditions, which include acne, rashes, cracked skin, blisters, abscesses, warts, eczema and boils plus much more.

Essential Lavender Oils are a popular remedy for nerve calming, and it is also used to treat swelling and inflammation.

Lavandula angustifolia, originally from england, is the most prevalent strain of lavender and it has become known as True Lavender, with the botanical name Clavandula as its prefix. It is the most prized variety because of the small concentration of camphor which remains following distillation, and is the reason for its rich floral fragrance.

lavandula vera and lavandula officinalis are other Lavender species which comprise about 50 varieties worldwide.

Enjoy your visit to http://www.essentiallavenderoils.com and learn how products derived from essential lavender oils can enhance your life. Whether used as a relaxing addition to a soothing bath, or for revitalising tired skin, I am sure you will be amazed by thIs versatile plant.

Author Antony Wilton has been researching uses and benefits of Lavender and his website is becoming an authority site on this topic Essential Lavender Oils

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Antony_Wilton

Lavender Essential Oil – Recipe Ideas for the Handmade Cosmetic Crafter

When it comes to manufacturing handmade cosmetics one ingredient no crafter should be without is lavender essential oil. Lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia) posses antibacterial proprieties, is gentle to both dry and oily skin, and has the ability to relieve such conditions as muscle pain, insomnia, headaches, burns, bug bites, eczema, psoriasis, and acne making it the most versatile of essential oils. It is also one of the few essential oils that can be used as a middle or top note in perfume due to its fresh, floral smell and affordable price.

Here are a few recipe ideas for using lavender in handmade cosmetics:

Salves, Ointments, and Balms: Lavender blended with neem seed oil or comfrey root powder produces a salve that soothes itching caused by insect bites, bruises, burns, and even diaper rash. Add cinnamon and clove for a pain relieving muscle rub ointment. Use lavender by itself as a gardener’s salve to help chapped hands or as a temple balm to aid in falling asleep and to quell headaches.

Hair Care Products: Blend lavender with apple cider vinegar and nettle herbs for a normal-to-dry hair rinse. You can also try combing rosemary, peppermint, and lavender essential oils along with jojoba and oat extract, which produce a very effective scalp oil treatment.

Bath and Body Care Products: Add lavender to toners, facial creams, and body lotions to combat acne or dry skin conditions. Lavender essential oil combined with dried lavender buds, dead sea salt, Epsom salt, and powdered milk make for a lovely bath salt recipe. Blend jojoba with rose geranium, lavender, sandalwood, and vanilla for a sweet and sexy feminine perfume oil.

Soaps: Try adding tea tree and lavender essential oils to opaque melt and pour soap base along with pumice (sprinkled at the bottom of your soap mold) for a deodorizing and exfoliating soap bar.

A word of caution, due to their volatility, research any essential oil, and always do a skin patch test before use.

Mindy Schwartz is a writer for the handmade beauty industry, as well as, the owner of a handmade bath and body business called Grayson’s Apothecary of Beauty. For more information, go online to http://www.graysonsco.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mindy_Schwartz

The Effects of Lavender on Moths

Lavender can be very effective on repelling moths. First you need to clean the area where moths have been to get rid of them. Lavender will not kill or remove moths.

It is not the adult moths that damage clothes, but the larvae (tiny, white worms) that is from the moth's eggs. In fact the adults do not eat nor live long. An adult female can lay between 100 and 150 eggs. The eggs hatch in about five days and it is all down hill from there for clothes or yarn. The larvae commence eating the fabric/fibers. The larvae will continue eating until they enter the cocoon stage.

Lavender and cedar (and eve, moth balls) do not actually kill the moths, their eggs, or the larvae. They mask the male's ability to smell female pheromones, therefore the males can not locate the females to mate and thus the female do not lay eggs.

Before using lavender and/or cedar you need to get rid of any eggs, larvae, or cocoons in your yarn, fabric, or other fibers.

Wipe down all storage bins or drawers where the items are located with a wet cloth or sponge. Locate the eggs and/or larvae and get rid of them. Try shaking the items out. If it is the summer, try putting them outside in direct sun light, which may either kill or drive away the eggs and larvae.

We suggest using one lavender or cedar sachet every 5 feet or so to insure that the fragrance of lavender/cedar is strong enough to smell.

If the fragrance fades just give the sachet a squeeze to release the natural oil inside of the lavender buds. Replace the sachet whenever you no longer smell the fragrance of lavender even after giving it a squeeze. Lavender has a shelf live of approximately two years.

Limauge Boutique offers wholesale pricing on bulk, dried lavender buds and bunches imported from France as well as Moth Away closet sachets, lavender sachets, party and wedding favors, lavender soap, lavender lemonade, and much more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wendy_Limauge

A Beginner's Guide to Growing Lavender

Lavender has been widely grown in gardens for its natural fragrance and for its use in arts and crafts. Growing lavender has become more popular; however, for its use in a variety of aromatherapy products. Lavender has a sweet floral scent with a woodsy sort of herbal aroma to it and is excellent for helping to relieve anxiety and tension.

It is used in aromatic bath salts and bath oils for a soothing relaxing bath and in sleep enhancing products such as aromatherapy pillows and sleeping mists that can be sprayed on your sheets to help you fall asleep. Lavender also has many medicinal purposes as well. It can be used as an anti-inflammatory, an antiseptic, as an insect repellent and can bring relief to insect bites.

It can help to soothe burns and ease headaches as well. Given its wide range of uses a lot of people are beginning to grow lavender for their own personal use in making a variety of these products.

Growing lavender is fairly simple and can be done from just about anywhere since it can be grown both indoors and out. There are three major types of lavender, identified by region, including the English variety (Lavandula angustfolia), the French variety (Lavandula x intermedia) and Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas). Of the three, it is the English variety that is most commonly used when growing lavender for aromatherapy, fragrant, and medicinal purposes.

When growing lavender indoors or in containers be sure to use sandy soil. Adding a bit of lime to the soil will also help in growing lavender that is healthy and fragrant. Preferring a lot of air circulation, you should keep your containers in a area where the plants can get plenty of air but is shielded from high winds. When watering your lavender plants, they will do best if they are allowed to dry out just a bit before the next watering.

When growing lavender out side, sandy rocky soil and sunny locations work best; although lavender adapts well to a variety of different soils. If using mulch, sand or pea pebbles work best and be sure to plan the lavender where you will get good drainage to prevent the roots from becoming too wet.

Growing lavender can be a easy and rewarding endeavor and is fairly simple even for those who are not gardening experts. Just keep the basic rules in mind and you should have great success growing lavender.

Sherry Harris is the author of the successful e-book "101 Amazingly Simple Ways to Beat Insomnia". Get the FREE e-book at http://www.ScentToSleep.com Hope you enjoyed the article topic Growing Lavender. Knock-out insomnia with aromatherapy sleep mist, so you can wake up refreshed and energized visit us now.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sherry_L_Harris

Cooking with Culinary Lavender

Have you tried whole grains with culinary lavender? Whole grains are making a comeback, and their advantages in terms of health and environmental conservancy are well known. However, to many palates accustomed to refined flour, whole grains seem tasteless and heavy. By using our Culinary Lavender, you can create healthy, satisfying meals that taste - and smell - delicious. Adding Lavender Lemon Pepper or Italian Seasoning with Lavender to your whole grains is the key to making nutritious meals that your entire family will love.

Why are Whole Grains So Beneficial?

Natural grains consist of three parts - the germ, the bran, and the endosperm. White rice, flour, and other refined grains are made by processing endosperm and discarding the bran and germ. The endosperm consists almost entirely of starch, while minerals, vitamins, proteins, and other healthy substances are found in the bran and germ. Although the endosperm has a milder taste and softer texture, adding culinary lavender to whole grains makes them just as appealing as refined grains - or even more so!

Using Culinary Lavender to interest your family in whole grains is also environmentally friendly. Nearly one third of every bushel of grain is discarded in the refining process. By using whole grains, you are extending the usefulness of every acre of grain that is planted.

What does Culinary Lavender Add to Your Meal?

Culinary Lavender looks and smells wonderful, but it also does more than just make whole grains more appetizing. Culinary Lavender has been known since Roman times for its soothing and healing properties. A pinch of Italian Seasoning with Lavender in your rice can relieve dizziness, or some Lavender Lemon Pepper mixed with whole grain flour for a fish batter can ease the pain of headaches as well as tasting great.

How Can I Use Culinary Lavender with Whole Grains?

Here are some suggestions for using Culinary Lavender while cooking with whole grains:

· Add Italian Seasoning with Lavender to homemade whole grain pastas, or use it to spice up your spaghetti sauce when cooking store bought whole grain pasta.

· Bake whole wheat breads with a touch of Culinary Lavender, to add a hint of alluring flavor to your loaves.

· Sprinkle Lavender Lemon Pepper over your stone-ground whole grain grits in the morning.

· Make a spicy topping for your whole wheat bread using a mixture of garlic, olive oil, and Italian Seasoning with Lavender.

· Use whole grain flour mixed with Lavender Lemon Pepper as a batter dip for fried vegetables, fish, and chicken fingers.

· Crush some Culinary Lavender with raw sugar, and sprinkle it over your whole grain oatmeal for breakfast.

Jenny Bishop teaches many culinary classes with the use of culinary lavender and is one of the judges for the Lavender Gourmet Recipe Contests hosted throughout the year by Lavender-n-Things. Click for free lavender recipes.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Bishop

Healing by Lavender

With the ever-increasing stresses that are just a part of our everyday life, it is important to find a way to relieve that stress. Everyone has a different way to deal with stress; you just need to find the one that works the best for you personally. Although there are many different remedies available, I want to focus in one just one in particular: Lavender.

Lavender has been known for its potent abilities for centuries. It was even documented that ancient Egypt used lavender during the mummification process. And even the Romans used it to freshen their breath and they put it in their baths. It is even said that the women of the Renaissance time period used dried lavender to fend off the plague. It is still widely used today, granted not for the plague or mummification, but still medicinally used.

One way to feel the healing potential of lavender is by smell. It has been found that when lavender is lightly inhaled, it will stimulate your olfactory receptor cells. These cells carry nerve impulses through your bloodstream, through your lungs, and into your brain-creating a feeling of well-being. Lavender has a great effect on increasing your good and uplifting feelings while squelching the bad. Scientists are currently conducting studies to prove that lavender has anti-convulsive effects. One study has actually shown that the elderly who have trouble sleeping have inhaled diluted lavender and found it just as effective as their prescribed sleep medication-the same with insomniacs.

Another great way to experience the benefits of diluted lavender oil is to rub it into the skin. Many have praised lavender for getting rid of or minimizing their headaches. They just rub the diluted oil right onto their temples. Also, a lot of masseuses use lavender oil during massages because it relaxes the muscles and the senses. Because of this, it is also great to put some lavender in your bath after an intense workout or a long hike. It will help reduce muscle soreness and muscle spasms that are associated with concentrated activity.

If you want a relaxing and entertaining weekend, try visiting a lavender farm. One well-known event is called "Lavender Days" at D. Gary Young's lavender farm in Mona, Utah. For this year (2008), "Lavender Days" is June 27-28. It is the largest lavender farm in North America, so it is guaranteed to be extremely pleasing to the eyes and the senses.

If you are looking for new ways to relax and stay optimistic, try lavender oil. The best way to know for a surety if it really works is to give it a try. Lavender as a mood calmer has been around for ages, and it doesn't look like it is going anywhere anytime soon.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Emma_Grant

Versatile Lavender and Holistic Health

You are probably familiar with the aromatic fragrance of lavender used in soaps, shampoos, and perfumes. However, you may not fully appreciate its versatility as an herbal medicine.

Historically, lavender has been highly valued by herbalists for its ability to relieve headaches and calm nervous tension. Modern research has shown lavender oil to be an effective antiseptic, promoting healing of burns, wounds, and sores. It can also reduce the pain and inflammation of
insect bites. The fragrant scent of lavender comes from the oil in the blue-violet flowers that can be used fresh, dried, or steam distilled (to extract the essential oil).

Lavender was recommended in nineteen of Edgar Cayce's readings for a variety of effects. The medical prescriptions of lavender are generally related to its calming and restorative qualities. A combination of lavender and witchhazel was recommended for use in a fume bath in two cases involving excessive muscular tension and nerve exhaustion. Several Cayce readings suggest that
the aroma of lavender can aid with attunement during meditation. Here are some practical tips for using lavender to improve your mental and physical well-being:

• Soak up lavender by placing a few drops of lavender in your bath water.
• Inhale its healing fragrance by putting a drop or two of lavender oil on a lamp or diffuser designed specifically for aromatherapy.
• Absorb lavender oil through your skin when you get a massage. It is best to mix it with another oil such as olive oil. When prescribed by Cayce for massage, it was always mixed with other oils. As with any oil, it is always a good idea to test a small area first to minimize the risk of allergic reaction.
• If you feel a headache coming on, massage lavender oil into the forehead and temples (but away from the eyes).
• For cuts, bruises, and insect bites, drop lavender oil directly onto the skin.
• To reduce insomnia, sprinkle a few drops on a pillow at bedtime.
• For nervous exhaustion or depression, consider lavender tea which can be made from the dried lavender flowers (1 1/ 2 tsp. flowers to 8 oz. water) which can be drunk up to four times a day.

Remember, more is not necessarily better. Use essential oils sparingly to achieve maximum benefits.

David McMillin has written numerous articles for the Association for Research and Enlightenment, founded by Edgar Cayce in 1931. McMillin's articles on holistic health and alternative healing have helped members for many years.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_McMillin

How To Use Lavender In Your Daily Life?

Lavender essential oils and lavender blend are easy to find in local store or online market. They come in variety products such as for bath spa, massage, or for healing properties.

Lavender essential oil is one of the most commonly used in aromatherapy. It has a pleasant aroma, healing properties, and also it is easily blended with other essential oils to provide for maximum effect.

Lavender and lavender blend essential oils can be used for :

Mosquito bite, just apply lavender oil on the skin. It will stop the inflammation and skin irritation, also reduce the chances of further swelling and redness.

Soak in soothing bath can give your muscles relax. Adding lavender to a soothing bath makes an enormous difference. It will soothe your skin and mind, relax you, and invigorate your skin.

Highly recommended for the nervous system relieving depression, anxiety and insomnia. Best if you use a lavender and lavender blend essential oil into a massage. lavender massage oil relaxes the muscles and tissues.

Foot spa bath is also best if using lavender and lavender blend essential oils. You can add it to foot scrub for a cramped feet or foot lotion with a message for relaxing tired feet.

For Hair care you can add two to four drops to your hairbrush and brush your hair. Lavender it s believed to stimulate hair growth and its antibacterial properties can help eliminate scalp conditions.

You can even use the lavender as a perfume behind the ears if you are allergic to perfumes.

For all skin care due to its powers of rejuvenation and balancing effects. Helps to heal burns, sunburn, acne, boils, bruises, eczema, psoriasis and wounds and sores of all descriptions.

You can’t go wrong when using lavender and lavender blend essential oils. It is easily absorbed by the skin, and soothes the deeper layers of it. Lavender can be also used in cases when you burn your skin, as long as the wound is not open, there should be no problem. It heals the burns effectively. If you have a dry skin, Use just a little bit of the lavender to bring moisture back to the skin. Or you can blend it in lotion to keep your skin nice and moist.

Lavender essential oil can be used neat, meaning without diluting it in carrier oil, but it must be done in small amounts and only for minor skin problems. However, it is advised to dilute lavender with a vegetable carrier oil such as olive oil, jojoba, sweet almond oil, etc, just to make sure that your skin don’t have an allergic reaction.

For more detailed on using Lavender and lavender recipes, please visit this site : Aromatherapy-at-Home.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Liani_Widjaja

Lavender Bath Salts

After a long day, a nice soak is the ticket to a relaxing experience and a good night’s sleep. Adding bath salts can enhance the experience significantly. Whether you have sore feet, or a stiff back, bath salts can improve the way you feel and relieve stress. Bath salts come in a variety of soothing fragrances, the most sought after being lavender, and rightly so!

Of all the herbs known today, lavender is best known for its beauty and resourcefulness. Originally found in the Mediterranean region, lavender was first used for its healing qualities by the Romans. Endowed with a hypnotic smell, lavender has been used in perfumes and soaps since the 18th century. Some believe that lavender induces the power of Mercury for spiritual development, and psychic growth.

Today, this perennial herb is known for its perfumes, medicinal qualities, and essential oils. This fragrant shrub has long, bluish-green branches, and blooms with beautiful purple buds.

Lavender oil is among the most famous oils used for therapeutic purposes. It can be used as a painkiller and an antiseptic. In addition, lavender also has a sedative, calming effect. Mixed with bath salts, a lavender bath can prove to be a unique experience. It provides all the benefits of a luxurious soothing bath, along with the benefits associated with aromatherapy.

To make your own lavender bath salts, mix lavender essential oils with calendula oil and bath salts. The hypnotic scent combined with a warm bath will leave you feeling fresh and relaxed, perfect for reviving the body and spirit. A healthy dose of olive oil will moisturize the skin, leaving it supple and soft. An attractive glass canister filled with vibrant hues of lavender salts, and attractive beads, crystals, and sea shells, make a beautiful addition to any bath suite.

Bath Salts provides detailed information on Bath Salts, How to Make Bath Salts, Wholesale Bath Salts, Lavender Bath Salts and more. Bath Salts is affiliated with Glass Beads.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Pinkerton

Your Wedding Ceremony - Lavender Signifies Loyalty in Your Perfect Wedding Ceremony

The scent of Lavender is pungent and beautiful. It is a sturdy plant, spiky and elegant. Its silvery leaves add a wonderful contrast in gardens where much of the foliage is dark green. Lavender offers a variety of meanings to a wedding ceremony and a marriage in the language of herbs and flowers.

• Lavender signifies loyalty. Loyalty in marriage says I have chosen you. I will remember your wonderful qualities when times are difficult and I will speak lovingly and respectfully about you.
• Lavender is a healing herb: it is soothing. It is calming. I don't believe there's a marriage around that wouldn't profit from calming, healing energy.
• Lavender is purifying: Lavender water was used as an antiseptic. It is included in burning sticks for smudge ceremonies.
• Lavender repels bugs. No one talks about this in marriage! But we need things to chase the demons away. Things that creep into each of us and our relationship.

So carry Lavender proudly at your wedding. Put it in your bouquet or carry a sachet made up of herbs that can be inserted into a pocket. Put bowls of potpourri on your tables at the reception or offer tiny sachets to the guests as favors. In your wedding vows, commit to being a loyal and faithful spouse and then keep that promise throughout your marriage. Do it even when it is difficult. And if you need support, slip a sachet into your pocket and remember what love and loyalty smelled like when you married your beloved a long time ago.

Bottom Line?: Give your relationship the chance it deserves to succeed wildly, against all odds! After all, you deserve it. Your relationship deserves it! If you want in-depth pointers, ideas, information about designing your perfect wedding ceremony, explore my site! And now I'd like to invite you to sign up to receive 2 free templates for creating the wedding vows of your dreams and the marriage of a lifetime: http://annkeelerevans.org/weddings/free

The Rev. Ann Keeler Evans - helping you move from "I do" to happily and healthily ever after!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ann_Keeler_Evans

The Magic and Many Uses of Lavender Oil

Lavender oil had been used for thousands of years and was popular in the Roman baths. There are many uses for lavender oil, which here is the editor's favorites.

1) To relieve menstrual pain, massage your lower back and abdomen with diluted lavender oil. Lavender is a natural anti-inflammatory and it contains pain-relieving properties making this essential oil a natural for menstrual pains. It also balances your spirits.

2) Lavender oil is a very good way to promote relaxation and even soothe headaches.

3) If you are discovering the summer season to be rather a hectic time, you may want to consider slowing down and helping yourself find balance with the use of a high-grade lavender essential oil. You can expect restful and utterly relaxing sleep accompanied by vivid dreaming as a result of the intoxicating lavender oil.

4) Rub lavender oil on the feet for a calming effect on the whole body.

5) Rub lavender oil on dry or chapped skin for a hydrating boost.

6) If you're interested in natural protection from mosquito bites, try lavender essential oil, diluted in a base of some other kind of oil, say for instance, jojoba oil or grape seed oil.

7) Hair and Skin-Just a little Lavender

After shampooing your hair, make your own rinse to help dull or oily hair. Take a jug of mineral water, a few drops of lavender oil and add fresh lemon juice. Let mixture set to blend. Rub into hair and scalp after shampoo is rinsed out thoroughly. Massage scalp into roots of hair and work your way to the end. Rinse out in 10 minutes.

8) Lavender helps to balance production of oils and prevents scarring.

9) Treat pimples by dipping a cotton ball or Q-tips dabbing them lightly am or pm with lavender oil until the problem is resolved.

10) Lavender also soothing for sunburn

As always consult your physician before using any herbal remedies.

To receive more "Highlights of Business, Marketing, Recipes, Fashion, & Success" and discover... Easy ways to increase your income and grow your business, Simple strategies to market your business and yourself, How to live your best life, now! http://www.womenbusinessmagazine.com

About the author

Linda DiMarco is the Publisher at Women Business Magazine. Women Business Magazine is a publication serving the entrepreneur and professional U.S. Female audience. We provide news and information

To promote the advancement of Female's in the U.S. Free Resource Center has been added at: http://www.womenbusinessmagazine.com/resource.php

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_DiMarco

Lavender Pure Essential Oil

Lavender pure essential oil is cultivated and harvested in the Mediterranean today. More specifically, lavender is grown in Provence, France. Lavender, actually comes from the latin word lavare, which means to wash. Since the beginning of time, lavender has been used for all natural skin treatments.

The finest of the lavender species is English Lavender, Lavandula Angustifolia, which was formerly known as Lavandula Officinalis. What is origin specific about this species is it only grows above 3000 ft.

Lavender pure essential oil can help treat skin conditions, such as acne, and rashes. Just mix up 10 drops of the oil in a quart of water, and spray, or dab with a cotton ball on the surface of the skin.

This oil can also help you relax and enjoy a good nights sleep. Take a few drops of the oil, and rub them directly on your temples, and/or on the pressure points on the back of your neck. Then lay down, and enjoy the aroma.

Lavender is also one of the main pure essential oils used in massages today. It is a very distinct aroma, and normally can not be confused with others. The aroma of the oil is a relaxing aroma, and helps the persons being massaged to relax even more. Also, with the skin benefits of this oil, it is an excellent oil, when blended with a carrier oil, to be used for massages.

Lavender, being versatile, and good for the skin, is an excellent oil to have in the cabinet. Try some lavender pure essential oil today.

For much more information on a all natural products, visit All Natural Products.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Baker

Improve your Health With Lavender Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils and other natural aromatic compounds from plants to affect one's mental or physical health. Essential oils, are known as hydrophobic i.e. non-water mixing or volatile i.e. air mixing. Essential oils are sometimes referred to as an "oil of" a plant e.g. oil of lavender. Essential oils are referred to as "essential" because they are the perceived "essence" of a plant..

Essential oils and other elements used in aromatherapy are used for relieving a variety of discomfort from indigestion to headaches. Aromatherapy is used to alter mood, inspire confidence, ease depression, and increase energy. In many cultures essential oils are used for their antiseptic value to treat infection. In France, essential oils viewed and considered in a similar way prescription drugs are in the United States. Essential oil treatments can be delivered in many different ways- direct inhalation of vapors, inhalation of steam from a vaporizer, through massage, or through therapeutic baths. It is important to note, however, that essential oils are diluted in carrier oils (neutral, odorless oils) before being used on skin. Essential oils can be used singly or in combinations with other essential oils.

Other products used in Aromatherapy besides essential oils include absolutes, phytoncides, and infusions. Absolutes are essentially purer forms of essential oils that have had their lighter, less dense components extracted with ethanol. Phytoncides are natural antimicrobial liquids used by many plants to protect themselves from rotting or being eaten by insects and animals. Infusions are oils or other liquids that have been infused with herbs, flowers, or berries.

One of the more popular and widely used aromas is lavender. Lavender grows well in rocky environments that have good sunlight. Lavender has woody branches and green leaf-like shoots resembling rods. The grayish green leaves are oblong and in curled spiral patterns. Lavender oil is taken from the flowers of the plant with steam distillation. Lavender oil blends well with many other essential oils including cedarwood, pine, clary sage, geranium, and nutmeg. The flowers of lavender are fragrant in nature and have been used for making potpourris. . Lavender's Latin name Lavare, means "to wash". Lavender essential oil has a calming scent and helps in treating migraines, headaches, anxiety, depression, nervous tension and emotional stress. Lavender aroma eases nervous exhaustion and restlessness and increases mental activity. Lavender essential oil induces sleep and is recommended for insomnia. Lavender essential oil helps ease pains caused by sore muscles, tense muscles, muscular aches, rheumatism, sprains, backache and lumbago. Massage with lavender oil helps relieve pain in the joints. Lavender oil helps in restoring hormonal balance and reduces inflammation of the urinary bladder. Lavender oil is often helpful for respiratory problems including throat infections, flu, cough, cold, asthma, sinus congestion, bronchitis, whooping cough, laryngitis, and tonsillitis. The oil is either used in the form of vapor or applied on the skin of neck, chest and back. It is also added in many vaporizers and inhalers used for cold and coughs.

Lavender oil helps skin because of its antiseptic and antifungal properties. Lavender oil is used for various skin disorders e.g. acne, wrinkles, psoriasis, wounds, cuts, burns, and sunburn.. Lavender oil is added to chamomile to treat eczema. Lavender essential oil is useful on lice and lice eggs or nits in hair. Lavender essential oil is also good for improving blood circulation by lowering blood pressure and hypertension. Lavender oil for digestion increases the mobility of the intestines increases production of gastric juices and bile and so eases indigestion, stomach pain, colic, flatulence, vomiting and diarrhea. Lavender oil also helps improve the immune system. Lavender can be used as an insect repellent for mosquitoes and helps heal insect bites. As with many other essential oils, pregnant and breast feeding women, people with diabetic concerns or people with unusually sensitive skin should avoid using lavender essential oil.

The health benefits of aromatherapy has been underestimated. Aromatherapy has often been considered to be only a way to make "everything smell nice". The health benefits of aromatherapy are much more powerful and effective than is commonly perceived or known by most people. Aromatherapy is a deeply beneficial natural healing modality for enhancing emotional balance and physical health. .

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/improve-your-health-with-lavender-aromatherapy-210514.html