Monday, November 10, 2008

Lavender Oil - Powerful Herbal Remedy From Nature

Lavender oil is one of the most popular essential oils today, and for good reason. The fresh herbal aroma of lavender oil is a favorite of many who enjoy natural fragrances. And, as one of the safest and most versatile essential oils, lavender oil is also a very powerful herbal remedy, that is useful for many common health issues.

Pure essential oil of lavender is antibacterial and antiseptic. It can be applied undiluted "neat" to minor burns to ease pain and accelerate the healing process. Actually, this is how the burn healing and pain relieving properties of lavender oil were discovered. A well know story in the history of aromatherapy, is the experience of French chemist, Dr. Rene Gattefosse, one of the founders of the principals of aromatherapy. Dr. Gattefosse burned his hand while working in his laboratory, and not thinking, plunged his hand into a nearby bowl of liquid to cool the burns. He realized the pain of the burns was diminishing quickly, and the burns healed rapidly thereafter. The bowl contained lavender essential oil.

Lavender essential oil can be used to aid sleeplessness. Massage lavender essential oil into the soles of the feet before going to bed, or put a few drops on a tissue and place the tissue between your pillow and pillowcase to help promote sleep when you're feeling restless. Lavender oil is very calming and helps to relieve stress. When feeling anxious and "jumpy", inhaling pure essential oil of lavender is instantly relaxing. Place 2 or 3 drops in your palms, rub palms together, cup palms over your nose and mouth, and inhale for soothing stress relief.

Lavender oil is an effective herbal remedy for natural headache relief. Massaging a few drops into temples, and inhaling lavender essential oil, helps to relieve the pain of stress headaches, and can also be used to lessen the severity of, and provide natural relief from migraine headaches. I have tried this for migraines when I feel them starting and it works! Massage a few drops of lavender essential oil into temples, then place a drop or two into palms, and inhale, while cupping palms over the nose and mouth. My migraine headaches begin to fade instantly during this relaxing treatment. And, after sitting quietly and continuing to inhale the lavender oil for a few moments, my migraine symptoms stop almost completely.

Lavender essential oil is analgesic (reduces pain), and a massage with a few drops added to a carrier oil (examples include: soybean oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil), helps to relieve pain associated with overexertion.

To help keep insects away when outdoors, lavender essential oil works as an effective insect repellent, and can be used as a natural alternative to toxic, chemical based products. Apply a few drops to the neckline, wrists, and ankles, and rub a few drops into palms and apply to hair, to repel mosquitos and other flying insects. For maximum insect repelling effectiveness, lavender essential oil should be reapplied every hour or so, or as needed.

Lavender essential oil should not be applied undiluted to babies and children. It should be applied only after dilution with a carrier oil including soybean, sunflower, and olive oils, at 4 drops lavender essential oil to 1 oz. carrier oil.

Lavender oil provides substantial benefits for the maintenance of natural health and wellness. The multiple uses of pure lavender oil make this powerful herbal remedy an essential for natural home health care.

For more information about essential oils: Click here: Essential Oils

Disclaimer Notice:
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for medical care, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition.

Kim Mujahid is a natural health and beauty writer, with over 15 years of experience in the natural skin care and health industry. Her online health site, NaturalHealth411.com, provides articles, information, and resource guides on topics of natural health, wellness, and beauty. For more information about natural health, natural beauty, and nature inspired lifestyle, visit http://www.naturalhealth411.com

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

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