Top Ten Uses for Lavender Essential Oil

Scientific name: Lavendula Augustifolia. Lavender is perhaps the most well-known and least understood of the essential oils. Practically everyone knows that lavender is great for burns, but few understand that there are over 30 (some say 40) different species of lavender and that many of the lavender essential oils are not even lavender, they are lavenda essential oils (smell similar, very cheap to produce, and containing very few if any of the healing properties of true lavender). The best lavender essential oil is from true lavender plants (Lavendula Augustifolia, previously known as Lavendula Officinalis Vera {Vera optional}) grown at altitudes of 5,000 feet or higher. This is the truly universal oil, a natural anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial (being currently tested against MRSA), antimicrobial, hormone balancing, skin cell regenerating, diuretic, muscle feeding, histamine blocking, anti-fungal, and overall body tonic essential oil! A true, pure lavender essential oil will contain properties that will affect all ten of the body's systems and still be gentle enough to use with a newborn baby (remember to dilute appropriately 0-2 years 1 drop essential oil to 3 drops carrier oil, 2-3 years 50/50 dilution, 3+ no dilution needed), earning it the name of The Universal oil.

1. The first oil to grab for any kind of burn. If the burned area is large and tender to the touch you may want to add 5-10 drops of lavender to one ounce of purified water in a spray bottle, shake well (and often) and spray the burnt area.

2. Reduces scarring and assists in removing old scars. Simply apply to the affected area several times a day. If you are preventing a scar from forming you have the added bonus of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties!

3. Insect repellant and great for bites and stings. It soothes the wound, calms the emotions, reduces any inflammation, and has an antihistamine affect. (Note: if you have a known life-threatening allergy to stings please visit the emergency room, but go ahead and apply the lavender oil on the way.) You can also use it in a sachet to repel bugs that may be hiding out in your dresser or closet.

4. Not only is lavender great for all skin issues, it has the double benefit of addressing hormonal imbalance skin issues (not just acne, but any way the hormone imbalance may present itself, psoriasis, rashes, cold sores, even boils). While you are using it on your skin it is also prevents wrinkles, scars, and encourages skin cell regeneration!

5. Diffuse lavender in a sick room, it relaxes both the patient and the caregiver, strengthens the immune system, and it cleanses the air. A great disinfectant, it was carried by soldiers and medics in World War I and II to use on wounds.

6. Assists in reducing the pain associated with migraine or tension headaches. Apply to the back of the neck, temples, and tops of the ears to relax the muscles and the emotions and thus reduce (or eliminate) the headache. Also great for emotional imbalances, mood swings, and depression that often accompany headaches.

7. A drop or two applied to the pulse points of the wrists can drop high blood pressure or calm someone who is overexcited. Great for use before visiting the doctor, not only will it protect you from any germs you may be exposed to, but it will also help calm any fears you may experience by being there. Also great to use before visiting the dentist. You can even apply it directly to a toothache and it will help relieve the pain there!

8. Great for insomnia! Add 5-8 drops to 1/4 cup Be Young Starflake Bath salts (highly crystalized bath salts that are great for absorbing essential oils), then add to a tub of water, soak for 20 minutes (or more), rinse off (because the soak will bring toxins out of the body and to the skin and you do not want to reabsorb them) and you will be ready for bed. Don't want to soak? Put a drop on the back of the neck, temples, and tops of the ears. Add 5-10 drops to one ounce of water in a spray bottle, shake well and often and lightly spray your pillow, bed linens, or just spray around the bedroom. This also works well as "Monster spray" to scare away the monsters who are keeping your little ones from sleeping. It will calm their emotions and allow them to relax and go to sleep.

9. Great for any respiratory challenges, clears mucus, calms spasms, even aids in stopping an asthma attack or in dealing with hay fever challenges. Take a whiff; apply to the chest and under the nose.

10. Marvelous for muscle aches and pains, it feeds the muscles by increasing nitric oxide in the body (a free radical, one of those marvelous chemical molecules produced during lightning storms that makes the world so fresh and alive afterwards); this enables the muscles to perform with more strength. Additionally, it reduces inflammation and muscle spasms.

*Only use essential oils internally that are truly 100% pure, such as Be Young oils. Oils that are cut or synthetic can have dangerous side effects if used internally. Always error on the side of caution and use common sense.

Magnificent Lavender Oils Loaded With Therapeutic Uses

Lavender oils are nature's blessing. Integrating booming qualities, this essential oil is serving the mankind in amazing way. There are loads of benefits which are associated with oil and a aid to manage skin and health related issues.Lubricants are very necessary and vital in our life as they can cause movement. These are great source of lubricants and provide the smoothness which is also coupled with the benefits of curing many things. Since ancient times our forefathers highly focused on the advantages which are integrated in these. Though not sticky, but essential oils are keys to cure many illness and health related issues.

Essentials oils are used in aromatherapy to take care of health and skin. Great benefits can be tapped from the oils as there are great way to take care. There are varieties of essential oils which are available in the market having their own unique qualities in them. Amongst many, lavender oil is versatile oil as it is most widely used in aromatherapy and also in perfumes due to the fragrance. lavender oil also has great therapeutic benefits. The oil is extracted using flower of lavender Augustinian. The source of extraction is pure and natural which can be safely used.

The aroma of lavenders help in gaining relaxation and also calm downs anxiety. Though there are essential oils which are extracted using plants which are nurtured using pesticides but such oils have no therapeutic advantages. High quality therapeutic grade lavender oil is pure and natural helping to cure from tension, stress and headaches. The oil is laced with amazing benefits, as it is pain reliever, maintains body balance, smoothing agent and also cure ailments.

The multiple purpose lavender oil is desired due the magic which is present in it. Inhalation of 2-3 drops of pure lavender oil help in curing headaches and fight against cough and cold. The oil is good checker of health and blood circulation. Lavender oil is blessed with the qualities of antiseptic. It provides complete relief from minor burns, injuries, insect bites etc. Beside it is also a source to keep insects and bugs at bay. Smearing this oil on body can manage scarring, stretch marks and wrinkles.

The entire day you would remain fresh and energetic, if few drops of lavender oils are mixed in the bathing water. The natural oil is safest and is highly effective against stretch marks during pregnancy. Few drops of this oil on the pillow ensure good sleep. Magnificence of the lavender oil has made it to rule to the heart of every user which craves for beautiful skin and perfect health.

Tips of Home Usage of Lavender Essential Oil

Essential oils have become an important part of our well-being. We use numerous types of essential oils for different purposes on daily basis. One of the most popular oil praised for its soothing fragrance and medicinal properties is Lavender oil. This multi-purpose oil is helpful in reducing anxiety, fatigue and stress, improve blood pressure, increase immune response and in curbing pain. Lavender essential oil is analgesic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and has anti-tumor properties.

Lavender oil should not be applied directly to the skin. To utilize the benefits of Lavender oil at home, dilute it by mixing 10 drops of oil with an ounce of jojoba oil or unscented lotion. Listed below are few tips on home usage of Lavender essential oil:

Headaches: The best way to treat headaches using Lavender oil is to inhale it. Add few drops of this to a bowl of warm water and breathe by bringing your face close to the bowl and covering it with a towel. You can also use diluted lavender oil on forehead and base of the neck to get relief from headaches.

Colds: Lavender essential oil can help in curing cold and removing cough. According to aroma-therapists, regular use of essential oils such as Lavender can help keep away cold and other viral or infectious diseases. You can also add few drops of the oil in a vaporizer to clear cold.

Stress: Lavender oil is very effective in removing stress and depression. Just before sleeping at night, a warm water bath mixed with six to eight drops of Lavender oil can help in melting away stress and removing fatigue. Dip your leg in a bowl of warm water mixed with three drops of the oil and relax. For toddlers, apply a drop of Lavender massage oil below their feet to calm them. If you have problem in sleeping add two or three drops of this at the corner side of your pillow and get a good sleep.

Ear-aches: For treating ear-aches, dab one drop of diluted lavender oil behind the ear and rub gently. You can also place a cotton ball dipped with one drop of this at the outer area of the ear.

While using Lavender essential oil at home, you should make sure that you use it with proper dilution. If you are pregnant, have asthma, or you are allergic to things, you should take doctor's advice before using the oil.

Natural Beauty Products: Lavender and Why You Need It

All sorts of natural beauty products use lavender essential oil as one of their main ingredients, from soap, to cleanser, face cream and shampoo. It's easy to assume that this is a fragrance issue, that lavender is included in these products because of its scent, but that is only the tip of the iceberg. Modern chemical trials have shown that there's a lot more to lavender than just the smell.

The power of lavender seems to have been known from ancient times. Lavender ointments were discovered in Egyptian tombs, and lavender is mentioned in the Bible under its original name of nard. Roman soldiers traveled with lavender and bathed in it for its antiseptic properties and because it repels insects. Far from being the unpleasantly aromatic place we imagine, the ancient world may actually have smelled of lavender and other sweet smelling herbs!

The invading Romans brought lavender from the Mediterranean to the UK and over time the plant became associated with English country gardens, in fact the best and most aromatic lavender essential oils are said to come from what is now known as English lavender.

Throughout the centuries, lavender has been a popular scent and a popular remedy. Queen Victoria enjoyed lavender and in World War I it was used in hospitals as other, more conventional products were difficult to obtain. Modern studies of the benefits of lavender oil had begun just a few years before. Rene Gattefosse, a member of one of the great perfume 'families' of France, studied not just the perfumes and essential oils, but their medicinal effects. When, in July 1910, he was badly burned in a fire, he made note that his skin was covered with a 'rapidly expanding gas gangrene.' Having researched lavender for 3 years, he plunged his damaged skin into lavender oil. He noticed that it not only healed quickly, it stayed free from infection and left no scar. Gatefosse went on to become the founder of aromatherapy.

Recent studies have shown that lavender essential oil is extremely beneficial in many ways: as an anti bacterial, an anti-inflammatory and an antiseptic. Although all substances can cause allergies, allergic reactions to lavender appear to be extremely rare, making it an ideal ingredient for natural beauty products. Lavender is one of the few essential oils which can be applied to the skin directly without first being diluted.

These days English lavender, or lavandula angustifolia (narrow leafed lavender) is famous world wide for its very sweet scent and the power of its essential oil, but there are many products around which are merely lavender scented, how can you be sure that you have a genuine lavender product with all its associated skin care benefits?

Always check the label for ingredients, avoid those with long chemical names and look for 'lavandula augustifolia' or 'organic lavender extract', then you can be sure you're buying natural beauty products which include pure essential oils.

Lavender Essential Oil: The Top Ten List of Healing Uses

The genus Lavandula comes from the Latin word lavare meaning "to wash," and L. angustifolia, known as true or common lavender, is the species used medicinally. Lavender essential oil is steam-distilled from fresh flowers and is mainly produced in Bulgaria and France. Be sure to use a reputable supplier when purchasing lavender essential oil as it is one of the most commonly adulterated essential oils. A genuine and authentic essential oil should always list the botanical name, the part of the plant used, the country of origin and the method of extraction. The synthetic scent of lavender from fragrance oil is not the same as a pure essential oil - there are no health benefits from synthetic fragrance oils!

When I refer to "neat" application, this means applying a drop of lavender essential oil directly on the skin. While this is generally recognized as safe, instances of sensitization have occurred. Furthermore, it is not recommended to use other essential oils in this fashion, with the exception of tea tree. When I talk about using lavender in a carrier oil, this means diluting a few drops of the essential oil in a base oil. Different oils can be used for different purposes, but with this article focusing on first aid remedies, extra virgin olive oil is a great and convenient choice. As there are approximately 600 drops in one ounce, use six to eighteen drops of pure lavender essential oil per ounce (by volume) of carrier oil for a one to three percent dilution.

Here we go, my top ten healing uses for lavender essential oil:

# 10 - Bruises

Lavender is great for bruises because it is anti-inflammatory and analgesic which aids in the healing process while decreasing pain. Using lavender in a carrier oil, gently massage into bruised area. For best results, dilute lavender in arnica-infused oil. Arnica contains sesquiterpene lactones and polysacharides that stimulate phagocytosis, thus cleaning up debris and reducing healing time. Please note that arnica should not be applied to broken skin.

# 9 - Muscle Aches and Menstrual Cramps

Massage lavender diluted in a carrier oil (arnica-infused oil for additional relief) into painful area or, my favorite, add a few drops of lavender essential oil to a warm Epsom salt bath for a deep muscle soak.

# 8 - Bug Bites and Bee Stings

Lavender's antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties make it a great choice for bites and stings as it reduces infection, swelling, and itching. To use, simply apply one drop of lavender essential oil neat to affected area.

# 7 - Earaches

There are two effective ways to ease the pain of an earache with lavender. The first is to gently massage lavender in a carrier oil into the outer ear and back of the ear. The second method is to put a drop of lavender on a cotton ball and gently place it on the outer ear. Never put it directly in the ear canal.

# 6 - Depression

Lavender is a restorative herb and is classified as a nervine, meaning that it has a calming effect on the mind and body. It works in powerful ways to bring feelings of comfort and peace and also helps with fatigue. Suggestions include inhaling lavender essential oil directly from a vial, spritzing your room with lavender diluted in distilled water, and infusing your space with lavender from a candle or incense. The options are endless.

# 5 - Headaches

Lavender's sedative effects make it a great remedy for headaches, especially when the headaches are caused by stress. Massage a drop of lavender diluted in a carrier oil into the temples and back of the neck, followed by a few deep, relaxing breaths of lavender essential oil directly from a vial. Add peppermint essential oil to the mix for even better headache relief.

# 4 - Sanitizer

Lavender was used in hospitals during World War I to disinfect floors and walls. Use lavender essential oil in a soap to cleanse, in water and vinegar for household cleaning, or try it in a base of grain alcohol as a hand sanitizer.

# 3 - Insomnia

Lavender works particularly well if insomnia is due to a restless and anxious mind. Before bed, spray your pillow and face with lavender diluted in distilled water, take a few deep breaths, inhaling lavender directly from the vial or from a drop on a tissue, or place dried lavender buds in a sachet in your pillow case.

# 2 - Burns and Sunburns

It was the French chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, who is famously cited for treating his severe burns and resulting infection with lavender essential oil. Apply a drop of lavender essential oil neat to minor burns. For sunburns, spray your body with lavender diluted in distilled water. Please seek medical attention for severe burns.

...And my number one healing use for lavender - Stress

lavender has balancing and harmonizing effects on the autonomic nervous system. In panic attack situations, inhale lavender essential oil directly from the vial and seek medical attention if necessary. For general stress and anxiety, spritz your face and room with lavender diluted in distilled water, take a relaxing bath with a few drops of lavender diluted in sea salt, or enjoy a massage using lavender-infused oil.

Lavender Essential Oil to the Rescue

Whenever I travel I always take an "emergency kit" of essential oils with me. One of the essential oils I find most useful to have on hand is lavender. Thinking back to the times away from home when I've had to use it, many incidents come to mind. The most dramatic was the time in Florida when my husband was checking under the hood of the car and the radiator cap exploded into his face, hitting him on the forehead. The water bubbled up and his entire upper body was scorched.

I immediately doused him with undiluted lavender oil, then applied aloe vera gel, which I also had with me. I kept reapplying the lavender until the soreness subsided and also gave him a couple of Aspirins for the shock. Luckily, we had access to a swimming pool close by, and got there as soon as we could.

My husband stayed neck deep in the pool for about twenty minutes. When he came out, there wasn't a mark on his body except for where the radiator cap had struck his forehead. Our friends who witnessed this said it was a miracle - they had never seen burns heal like this.

One time when I was telling this story, a lady told me that this same type of accident had happened to her husband and he had to spend time in the hospital with third degree burns. Thank goodness for lavender!

Another time lavender came to my rescue was when my son picked me up at the Vancouver airport, saying we'd have to hurry to get to an emergency clinic, as he had just been stung by a bee. He has a history of violent allergic reactions to bee stings; each one getting a little worse. His hand was already swollen to twice its normal size and the swelling was rapidly moving up his arm. Fortunately I was wearing a pendant that contained lavender and I immediately applied it to his bite, stopping the swelling and eliminating the rush. We didn't go to the clinic.

Over the years I have used lavender on numerous people who have had bad reactions to insect bites. It nearly always helps. It is also great for taking the itch out of mosquito bites.

Lavender is also one of my standbys for treating headaches. Just a drop rubbed into the temples and another under the hairline at the back of the neck will usually do the trick.

The Natural Muscle Relaxant: Lavender

If there is a specific cause for muscle pain such as Arthritis or disc problems, there are also a number of specific remedies that can help deal with these ailments. But for pain relief, most people seek prescription pharmaceutical medication, which can have bad side effects and can even cause allergies, aside from the fact that it can be damaging to our bodies. If one is looking for a muscle pain relief but is worried about drug interactions and its adverse effects, then they may consider using natural muscle relaxants.

For general muscle relaxation, a massage using two teaspoons of almond or olive oil mixed with 3 drops each of essential oils of lavender, a natural muscle relaxant can help bring relief. lavender is as old as humankind. Already in use by different civilizations for more than 2,500 years, this beautifully-scented herb has been used in the following ways such as perfume, disinfectant, deodorant, aphrodisiac, and insect repellent.

Lavender, the bushy perennial with the refreshing and delightful scent, has a long history of medicinal uses. It is calming and has an uplifting influence. Warm lavender tea applied as a compress can relieve a headache. In the bath water, lavender oil relaxes one, and gets rid of tension, thereby making one feel better.

Lavender was also used in ancient times to tame lions and tigers. Perhaps the ancient people intuitively knew what researchers are finding out about lavender. Researchers have proven that it calms anxiety and provides natural stress relief. lavender has also a long list of medicinal properties, making it a natural health superstar. These days, lavender is enjoying renewed popularity as an alternative natural muscle relaxant.
lavender was also used in earlier days as a condiment and for flavoring dishes to comfort the stomach. It has aromatic, carminative, and nervine properties. Though largely used in perfumery, it is now not much employed internally, except as a flavoring agent, occurring occasionally in pharmacy to cover disagreeable odors in ointments and other compounds.

Red lavender lozenges are employed both as a mild stimulant. More than just lozenges, the red lavender product is also a favorite after-dinner treat because of its pleasant taste. The essential oil, or the spirit of lavender made from it, proves admirably restorative and tonic against faintness, palpitations of a nervous sort, weak giddiness, spasms, and colic. It is agreeable to the taste and smell, provokes appetite, raises the spirits and dispels flatulence. The dose is from 1 to 4 drops on sugar or in a spoonful or two of milk.

A few drops of the essence of lavender in a hot foot bath is often prescribed as a means of effectively relieving fatigue. If applied outwardly, it relieves toothache, neuralgia, sprains, and rheumatism. In hysteria, palsy and similar disorders of debility and lack of nerve power, lavender will act as a powerful stimulant.

Before you reach for over the counter drugs for your next muscle relaxant, why not do what ancient Egyptians did and look to nature first. After all, if lavender could tame tigers, imagine what it could do for Monday mornings at the office? Definitely, lavender, is the ultimate natural muscle relaxant.

How to Make Lavender Oil Lotion for Strengthening Skin

Dry, cracked and chapped skin is a painful issue that many people struggle with. Whether it is caused by the dry, cold, blustery, winter weather or frequently washing with soaps, the skin needs support and attention to stay strong and healthy. But what is the best way to strengthen the skin without clogging it up with toxins? Many lotions on the market are filled with chemicals that are not desirable to have absorbed into the body. A simple recipe for lavender oil lotion can be a natural and economical solution.

Basic Lavender Oil Lotion Recipe

Only two ingredients are needed: pure therapeutic grade lavender essential oil and any pure vegetable oil. Simply put a few drops of the pure vegetable oil in the palm of your hand. Then add a single drop of lavender essential oil. Mix these two ingredients together with a finger. Finally, apply topically to the stressed skin.

Pre-mixed Recipe

For a convenient way to carry your lavender oil lotion with you all day, pre-mix it in a small glass bottle. Almost fill a one or two ounce glass bottle with the pure vegetable oil. Then add 15-20 drops of lavender essential oil. Shake bottle to mix thoroughly. Carry in your pocket, purse or briefcase and apply as needed throughout the day.

Lavender Oil Healing Properties

Lavender essential oil has many healing properties that will help nourish the skin. It has antiseptic properties which will help prevent infection in damaged skin. It can be used to support many skin conditions such as sunburn, rashes, dryness, cuts, burns, and insect bites. It also helps with cell renewal and minimizes scarring as the skin repairs.

The pure vegetable oil will act as a moisturizer for the skin as it rebuilds. It also acts as a carrier for the lavender essential oil to spread more evenly when applied. Some quality vegetable oils to be used are extra-virgin olive oil, sweet almond oil, grape seed oil and macadamia oil. There are also some good vegetable oil blends on the market for therapeutic uses. The one I prefer is called V-6 Enhanced Vegetable oil Complex.

When using any essential oil, including lavender, for health and healing purposes, be certain it is a pure therapeutic grade oil. Pure oils should be carefully steam distilled from organically grown plant material. oils that are synthetic or diluted with other substances may still smell nice, but they won't have the same healing properties as pure therapeutic grade essential oils.

Combining the healing properties of lavender essential oil with pure vegetable oil is a simple and economical way to support your skin as it strengthens and heals. Enjoy the benefits of using natural, pure ingredients in your home mixed lavender oil lotion.

Lavender, The Swiss Army Knife of Essential Oils

Lavender is one essential oils that should be in every home and first aid kit! Lavender is the most "universal" oil and is the Swiss army knife of essential oils. It is steam distilled from Lavandula angustifolia.

Lavender is one of the few essential oils that is safe to use neat or undiluted, on the skin, if it is therapeutic grade.

When in doubt, use Lavender. Lavender is good for all kinds of problems.

Personally, I have used Lavender for quite a long time to control my blood pressure by inhaling and applying to the heart reflex points and directly over the heart.

Lavender reduces inflammation, relieves burns, headaches, cuts, skin abrasions, analgesic, anti-fungal, calming and relaxing, anti-stress, anti-depression, insomnia (inhale), PMS and more.

Burns and Sunburn - Apply 1-3 drops on burn location to cool tissue and reduce inflammation. Apply 3-6 times daily or as needed.

Use Lavender to cleanse and sooth cuts or scrapes.

Reduce or minimize scar tissue by massaging it on or around affected areas.

Apply 2-3 drops Lavender to relieve itching and soothe skin.

To Calm and Relax- Lavender is well-known for its calming and sedative properties. Massage Lavender into the back of the neck or bottom of feet for relaxation. Add a few drops of Lavender to your bath water for a relaxing soak. Diffuse Lavender before bed to quiet the mind and prepare for sleep. Inhaling also works wonders. Lavender can also be used for insomnia.

For restless leg syndrome, apply to the bottoms of feet. Inhale deeply to get back to sleep if necessary. If you have insomnia, try rubbing some Lavender on your chest and put a couple drops on your tongue.

Headaches- lavender is good for headaches. Put a couple drops in your hand and then inhale. Apply a drop on your temples, the back of the neck across forehead or on location.

Mood Uplifting - Diffuse or put a couple drops in your hand and then inhale. Apply direct application. Lavender also helps PMS symptoms.

Essential Lavender - Always in the Mix

Mom, Tryssie said, sampling essential oils and offering her own unsolicited commentary, I know essential lavender oil is supposed to be calming and soothing and all, but it smells more like comatose. Tryssie's signature fragrance review line: "essential lavender smells like grandma and the bridge club." She does not intend the line as criticism, more like very precise and vivid reporting, and certainly delivered with proper homage to the queens of three-no-trump. For today's post-modern emerging woman, lavender probably does seem sadly twentieth century.

I explained, however, one need not make this oil the leading ingredient, but one really ought, always, to include it in the mix. Yes, even if we concede lavender evokes all things Victorian and quite a few things Eisenhower, we must acknowledge that lavender shared Victoria's secret-appear prim and innocent, but pack a potent wallop. Among the essential oils, lavender rivals all the best in medicinal and therapeutic applications and benefits. Even Wendell, our Wonder Dog, has experienced and benefitted from its soothing effects. essential oil beginners must learn that lavender, and its sister chamomile, calm and soothe everything. Experts act on the principle, if it needs calming and soothing, lavender and chamomile are there. In pillow sprays-essential lavender is essential. After-cleanse skincare-must have lavender in the mix. Unruly dry hair-lavender ranks number one as your go-to oil. Of course, lavender dominates the sachets in your drawer full of "intimates"; no one wants anxious and unruly drawers.

Essential lavender in "Complementary Medicine"

Naturopaths rely on essential oil in treatment of neurological disorders. Sounds serious, Tryssie volunteers, and I agree that essential lavender can serve as serious medicine. Relying on essential lavender for inhalation therapy, naturopaths use it to treat severe headaches-including migraines and they have found it works extremely well for treatment of the entire constellation of pre-menstrual symptoms. Aches and cramps abate, exhaustion and fatigue lift, and irritability softens to grudging tolerance. Although massage therapists confess lavender has only limited benefit, strictly speaking, for serious skin disorders, they insist on its value in promoting intimacy and the power of a healing touch. In other words, lavender has little topical-biochemical effect on eczema or acne, but healing massage promotes recovery from the inside out. Mothers, if your child suffers a serious skin disorder or you are battling measles and chicken pox, healing massage promotes rapid recovery by enhancing children's sense of love, affection, and safety.

Rigorous Clinical Studies of Essential lavender

The University of Maryland, the nation's leader in strict clinical research for "complementary medicine," determined essential lavender substantially contributes to control and relief of post-operative o oxygen to one half of the group and oxygen alone to the other half. All twenty-five patients in the experimental lavender group reported considerably higher satisfaction with the facility's pain management regime than patients in the control group. Researchers also reported patients in the experimental group recovered and were ready for discharge sooner than patients in the control group.

Essential Oils and Burns - Why Many People Choose Therapeutic Grade Lavender Essential Oil

The essential oil of lavender is one of many natural and pharmaceutical products available for treating burns. It is my treatment of choice, and has been the treatment of choice for a number of people since the ancient Egyptians, if not before.

An Example

Recently, a friend emailed me to ask what essential oil I might recommend for first and second degree burns on his face. He had been out burning tree branches, when he became careless and got too close.

People who have studied essential oils for any length of time have learned that the highest choice for burns of any kind is a pure, therapeutic grade lavender essential oil.

Why Lavender?

A therapeutic grade of lavender essential oil is made up of over a hundred different compounds that do more than just help with burns.

1. One of these compounds has analgesic (pain relieving) properties.

2. Another compound in lavender gives it antiseptic properties.

3. Some medical doctors - mostly in Europe and Ecuador - also use lavender to prevent scarring.

4. The bottom line is that the constituents in lavender oil have many healing properties.

How to Use It

There are a number of ways to use lavender essential oil on such a burn, and here are three ways that come to mind first.

1. Diluting therapeutic grade lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia) with a high quality, organic vegetable oil 50:50 and applying it on the burn.

2. With therapeutic grade lavender essential oil, some people would not dilute it at all.

3. Putting therapeutic grade lavender essential oil in a spray bottle with purified water and spritz on.

Two Cautions

Before you go out and buy the first bottle of lavender esential oil that you can find, there are two extremely important cautions you should know about, because there are two types of "lavender" oils that can make burns WORSE.

1. Lavender that has been adulterated with synthetic chemicals. This includes the "lavender" that says "pure" on the label, but according to U.S. law, might have as little as 5% lavender and who knows what else as the other 95%.

2. Lavandin that has been labeled as lavender, or even mixed with lavender. Lavandin, because of its camphor content, will make burns worse!

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Lavender Oils: Do You Know How to Choose the Best Quality?

Lavender oil is one of the most popular essential oils for aromatherapy. Health benefits of lavender oil have been documented in numerous studies and researches. Some of the well known benefits include its ability to induce sleep, relieve nerve tension, uplift mood, relieve pain, and improve respiratory functions. To experience those benefits, aromatherapy and health related books and articles advise us to use "pure" oil.

However, there is no international guideline that would help us to determine the quality of the oil. Without reliable guideline, how can we buy good quality lavender oil? In this article, first, conditions that will affect the quality of lavender oil will be discussed. Second, important considerations to find good lavender oil will be discussed.

The quality of lavender oil is greatly influenced by several factors. First, it is the quality of lavender itself. It is greatly affected by the soil condition, temperature, and amount of rain fall. Lavender is sensitive to humidity and heat.

Second, it is the timing of processing. To produce good oil and preserve quality, lavender has to be distilled and processed immediately after harvesting.

Lastly, the way the oil is packed, stored, and handled affects the quality. After the oil is produced, it has to be stored in a tightly closed, darkened glass container and placed in a cool and dark place. Chemical degradation can occur when the product is exposed to heat, light, or oxygen.

With these things in mind, what do we need to look for?

• If you are seeking health benefits, do not buy oils that have like "fragrance oil," "scented oil," and "perfume oil" on the labels. Those products are artificial and cannot be used for aromatherapy.
• Is the Latin name of the lavender provided in the label? There are many different kinds of lavender. Looking for the Latin names of lavender is important because they have different aromatic uses. Mainly four kinds of lavender are used as oil. They are True lavender (Lavandula angustifolia or Lavandul officinalis), Spike lavender (Lavandula spica), French lavender (Lavandula stoecas), and Lavandin (Lavandula hybrida).
• Does the label provide the country of origin and/or a lot number? The information of the country of origin is important because the quality of lavender oil can vary by the country. It is more desirable if the label has a lot number because responsible and respectable companies assign the numbers to their products to assure safety and quality. With lot numbers, they can track information about the country of origin and the year that lavender olis was produced as well as the quality of the oil.
• Research the market price. If the price is really law, the oil is probably fake or synthetic.

If you are still in doubt about your judgment, it is always best to ask questions before purchasing your lavender oils, whether from online or in a store.

Tag : lavender,lavender oils,oils

Aromatherapy Essential Oils and Lavender Blends - Lavender Oil

Lavender Oil is one of the most utilized oils in Aromatherapy. Its calming effect is well documented and it is used in a wide variety of products, from perfumes and deodorants to mosquito repellents and aftersun lotions. Its uses as an essential oil vary from treatments for restlessness and anxiety through to treatment for burns and insect stings. Whatever use you put lavender oil to, the scent of Lavender Oil is unmistakable. And here at Lavender Oil & Co you can find several different types of Lavender Essential Oil, as well as many other complimentary products that are good for the body, soul and mind.

As well as having many uses, Lavender Oil also comes in many different varieties. These varieties have different scents and properties. English grown lavender tends to be "woodier" in scent than its French counterpart whilst Bulgarian lavender has a sweeter aroma. Bulgaria is the biggest exporter of lavender in Europe, possibly in the world. It is often mis-sold as French Lavender. English organically grown and distilled Lavender is widely regarded as the best in the world and is commonly used in cooking and for culinary purposes.

Lavender has been appreciated for centuries. It is documented in works over 2500 years old and even mentioned in the Bible. There are many myths associated with Lavender. Placing a sprig of lavender in a lovers shoe would stop them from straying for example. During the plague Lavender was used to anoint ones clothing to repel the sickness. This could be in part true as Lavender Oil is a natural insect repellent and could have kept away the fleas that spread the illness. In modern times it is often use

As you can probably tell, we love lavender. In fact we love all of our products and we are sure that you will too. None of our products have been tested on animals, and they all utilize the many and varied wonderful plants that our planet has given us. We pride ourselves on using products that are as close as possible to their rawest form. Just as nature intended. Lavender oil, has long been used in the production of perfume, can also be used in Aromatherapy Oils. The scent has a calming effect which may aid in relaxation and the reduction of anxieties. Kashmir Lavender oil is also very famous as it is produced from the foothills of Himalayas.

It may also help to relieve pain from tension headache when breathed in as vapor or diluted and rubbed on the skin. When added to a vaporizer, lavender oil may aid in the treatment of cough and respiratory infection.

Lavender oil & co manufactures these herbal oils that may also be used as a mosquito repellent when worn as perfume or when added to lotions or hair products.

Tag : lavender,lavender blends,lavender oil,aromatherapy,essential oils

Lavender Oil - An Amazing Variety of Uses

Lavender oil has long been valued not only for its fresh, sweet smell, but also for its therapeutic properties. Its history goes back at least as far as the Roman Empire where lavender was used to freshen the wash water and the oil was used to treat battle wounds. In modern times lavender oil has many uses from aromatherapy to scent for bath products. Learn about this amazing natural substance from plant to product.

What is it? - Lavender oil is the essential oil of a lavender plant, derived from the stalks (peduncles) and flowers. The plant material is subjected to a steam distillation process that yields lavender hydrosol and oil.

Where does it come from? - Lavender grows well in a wide variety of climates and can be found in many parts of the world. It grows wild in several Mediterranean countries, and there are many lavender farms in this area. Provence, France is famous for its lavender farms and festivals. Other large production locales include Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.

How is it used? - The wide variety of uses for this remarkable oil is truly astonishing, but can be grouped into two broad categories: Therapeutic and Scents.

Therapeutic Applications - Lavender is probably the most common essential oil used in aromatherapy, which is an alternative health treatment that makes use of essential oils. Breathing the aroma of lavender has been shown to have a calming effect on many people and is often used for insomnia. The aroma is often distributed using a diffuser or burner, but you can enjoy the benefits by simply placing a few drops of lavender oil in your bath water or in a cotton ball to sit on your nightstand.

Lavender oil has pain killing properties and provides temporary relief from aching joints. Rubbing the oil directly into can help ease childhood "growing pains" or even mild arthritis.

The antibiotic properties of lavender make the oil a great natural choice for preventing infection in minor cuts and burns. Simply apply the oil directly to the wound and appreciate both the pain killing and germ killing effects.

Lavender Scent - Lavender has an especially sweet scent and the oil has been used for hundreds if not thousands of years as an enjoyable aroma. The scent of lavender can be found in many products, from soaps and lotions to air fresheners. Lavender is a favorite aroma in spas, and is a major component of many massage oils and facial creams. Lavender sugar scrubs and salt scrubs are wonderful ways to exfoliate the skin while enjoying the relaxing aroma.

These uses for lavender oil are but a few of the many ways that one can take advantage of the wonderful aroma and health benefits. It truly is one of the simple blessings of nature.

Tag : lavender,lavender oil,lavender roses,lavender essential oil

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

What Is So Great About Lavender Soap?

If you've never used lavender soap before, the first thing you are going to notice is the crisp, clean fragrance. Lavender gives off a sweet, floral overtone that makes it a favorite soap ingredient. You may not know it, but lavender soap isn't just used to wash the body. The essential oils that lavender produces are made into washing detergents, dishwashing and even floor soaps. And lavender isn't just known for its scent. It also helps to promote relaxation, which is why using it in your home can help to create a very peaceful environment.

How Does it Clean?

We've already established the great smells that helps you to relax, but how well does it actually clean? Well, according to the Entomology Research Institute of Loyola College, lavender oil possesses powerful antibacterial as well as antiseptic properties that make it perfect for aiding in insect bite healing and sunburns. Basically, any soap that contains lavender essential oils can be used for healing skin infections. Lavender's antibacterial properties also make it a great remedy for scabies and eczema.

Lavender has long been used to cure various ailments. It's even a great anti-inflammatory, as it helps to promote new cell growth. When you put essential oils, or even soap, on your skin, you will begin healing right away and you will even prevent scars from forming.

Lavender and Stress Relief

When you use lavender soap, you can actually help to relieve your anxiety and stress. That's right. According to Psychology Today, there was a study done by Charles Stuart University in Australia that showed how lavender actually changes our brainwaves and helps to create a feeling of well-being and relaxation. That means you can use the lavender soap right before bedtime to get a restful sleep. It can also be used on small children to help them relax if they, too, are anxious or too rambunctious.

Many Uses for Lavender Soaps

Lavender isn't just used in soap. It's also used in teas and it's heavily used in aromatherapy to help promote stress-relief and anxiety-relief. But you may not know that it's used to repel fleas. Soaps that contain lavender essential oils can be used to not only repel fleas, but kill them. You can even put a few drops of lavender into your pet's shampoo as a safe and effective flea treatment.

Anti-Aging Properties

Lavender is also used in anti-aging treatments. Since lavender helps to promote new cell growth, you can actually reverse time on your skin. Lavender soaps leave your skin feeling soft and clean, and they neutralize dry and oily skin at the same time.

Now you know all the benefits of lavender soap. With its robust, flowering scent and strong anti-bacterial properties, it's one of the best soaps you can buy. But when you take into account all the healing properties, and the fact that it promotes relaxation and stress-relief, everyone should use some type of lavender soap in their home. Not only will it bring a sense of peace, but it will make your house smell fantastic.

Lavender World is the new online shopping retailer which sells everything lavender, purple and lilac. This calendar month, sees the thrilling launch of the brand-new Lavender Soap range.

Tag : lavender,lavender soap,lavender essential oil,pink lavender

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

Not All Lavenders Are Created Equal

There was a time when didn't realize there was a difference between high end lavender and grocery store lavender. I figured that one had marketed itself more effectively and was able to put a higher price tag on the same product. While this happens more than it should, there are cavernous differences between "lavender", lavendin and lavendula angustifolia.

Let's break it down:

"Lavender": A lot of products in grocery stores with a "lavender" scent may not even have actual lavender in it. It's like "grape" gum. I've never tasted a real grape that smelled anything like grape-flavored gum but it's what the market has decided "grape" tastes like so that's what we've come to expect. Same goes for lavender. A lot of people out there (maybe even you!) have only encountered the most false versions of lavender and believe that you're allergic to or dislike the smell of lavender. If the ingredient deck says nothing of "lavendin" or some form of "lavandula", back away slowly and move on to something real.

Lavendin: Even though (or maybe because) Lavendin is a hybrid of lavandula angustifolia (often called True Lavender) and lavender spica (Spiky Lavender), it's a totally sterile plant that can't reproduce on its own. Despite its sterility, lavendin is by far the most prevalent form of lavender in soaps, toothpastes, everything because it smells so lovely. It has to be cloned, which is why most lavender fields you see look eerily symmetrical and tidy. Lavendin, however, doesn't guarantee all the healing properties that lavandula angustifolia provides, so OHA primarily uses lavendin to cover up the not-so-pleasant smelliness of unrefined olive oil, pumpkin seed oil and rose hip seed oil. It also does well at the basic lavender functions, like being antispasmodic and a stress reliever.

Lavandula Angustifolia (True Lavender): Ahhh, now the really good stuff. When other skin care companies use this variety of lavender, they dilute it like crazy because it's so expensive. This lavender is not skin sensitizing so it's safe for almost every skin type. The most precious sub-species of lavendula angustifolia is Population Lavender, grown from seeds in France. It is among the most therapeutically complex and beneficial lavender oils in the world. Talk about freakisly expensive, but OHA uses it because it's what's best for your skin. Different climates, altitudes, and even insects can affect the structure and therapeutic strengths of a lavender plant, so OHA sources lavender from all around the world, including the Pacific Northwest, Tasmania, France, Bulgaria, and the Himalayas. This guarantees that you get all the possible therapeutic benefits of lavender when you use OHA's skin care system. Why is that cool? See below:

Lavender Angustifolia's benefits include:

* treating eczema, psoriasis, burns, bronchial disorders, migraines, wounds, parasitic infection
* relaxant, sleep aid and stress reliever
* antibacterial, antispasmodic, a circulatory stimulant and antiseptic
* regulates skin functions and stimulates cellular growth and regeneration
* brings balance to all skin types, including acneic, dry, normal, sensitive and oily
* heals open wounds or surgical wounds
* it turns you and your friends into unicorns. I'm kidding. I just wanted to see you if you were still with me.

Enlightening stuff, eh? It just reminds me of what an honor it is to be using and working around the most beautiful ingredients available.

Tag : lavender,lavender essential oil,lavender plant,lavender oil

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

Do You Know the Different Lavender Herb Types

Lavender herb is a popular addition to gardens. The aromatic flower spikes are excellent in dried flower arrangements or potpourri. The plant can also be used to make essential oils and for natural healing. Some people also use the plant in cooking, although this is not common. There are around thirty varieties of lavender. However, the most often used are the English, French and Spanish varieties.

English lavender, botanically known as Lavendula angustifolia, is the type most people picture when they hear the word lavender. The plant has purplish flowers and grows to two or three feet. Their fragrance is strong, which is why this type is the one most commonly used for aromatherapy.

There are sub-varieties of English lavender. These tend to be smaller in size, work well as edging and come in other colors than the traditional lavender. Varieties include Melissa, which has pink flowers; Baby Blue, which has purple flowers; Nana Alba, which has white flowers; and Martha Roderick, which has bluish-lavender flowers.

French lavender, or Lavendula dententa, is a milder variety of lavender. It has a more subdued fragrance than its English cousin. Flowers are not quite as vibrant. This type is typically used more for decorative appearance rather than aromatic appeal. This plant also grows up to three feet in height. Leaves are serrated.

The flower many gardeners mistakenly assume is French lavender is actually Spanish lavender. Botanically known as Lavendula stoechus, the plant grows between eighteen inches and two feet in height. Petals are upright and similar in appearance to a pine cone. In Spring, deep purple flowers appear. Bees tend to like this type, which grows best in humid areas.

Of these three main types, English lavender tends to be the hardiest. It can winter outdoors provided it has shelter and a layer of mulching to protect it. The French and Spanish varieties need more warmth and should be moved indoors. If you do not bring them in, you will have to replace the plants each year.

When purchasing lavender commercially, you may notice it labeled as true lavender, spike lavender or lavandin. True lavender has barrel-shaped flowers, short and narrow leaves and crooked stems. It is commonly used for aromatherapy. Spike lavender, like the name implies, grows more and spikes. This type yields the highest amounts of essential oils. Lavandin, sometimes called Dutch lavender, is a hybrid of true and spike lavenders. It has vibrantly colored flowers and is often used as part of decorative accents or potpourris.

While lavender can be grown from seed, it is difficult. Most gardeners start their plants from cuttings or root divisions. They need moist, well-drained soil to flourish. Provide protection from the sun for the first year before moving to the garden. To encourage the plant to bush out, cut flower shoots off the first year in the garden. After the first year, the plant just requires dead-heading of old flowers to keep it going strong. For the strongest aroma, harvest at the end of summer on a hot, dry day.

Tag : lavender,lavender herb,lavender essential oil,lavender flower

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

Uses For Lavender Essential Oil

You can use Lavender essential oil in a variety of ways, and to help with a variety of home care needs. Lavender oils have been used for many years, and while it is more commonly associated with its health and beauty benefits, Lavender has plenty of home care uses as well.

While it is easy to find out what to use lavender oil for, it can be difficult to figure out how to use lavender and lavender oils for these purposes. Here you can find a couple different uses for lavender and how to use them for your home care needs.

Lavender can be very easily used to refresh clothes, carpets, and rooms.

To use to refresh clothes

• Place 5 drops of lavender essential oil into about a quarter cup of fabric softener, and add into washer like normal. When you take these clothes out of your washer they will smell just like the soft, fresh, flowery scent of lavender.
• You can also make a lavender sachet and stick it in your drawers to keep your clothes smelling fresh. To do this, just add some dried lavender, and accompanying herbs (like chamomile, lemon, or mint leaves), and place them in a small pouch. You can make a pouch easily out of an old t-shirt and some ribbon. Just cut up an old shirt into a large circle, add herbs of choice, and tie up with an old string or ribbon.

To refresh carpets and area rugs

• Mix 2 - 4 cups of baking soda with 10 - 15 drops of lavender essential oil, mix in a plastic ziplock back and let sit for a few days to dry out. Then take this mixture, which should smell wonderful when you open it, and sprinkle over your carpets. You can let this sit for a little bit, and then vacuum up. This will leave your carpets smelling wonderful and fresh.

To refresh rooms

• Drop a few drops of the lavender oil into the hot wax of a burning candle, this will give off a faint smell. You can also easily find lavender candles at any home or specialty store. They are very common, and some even have lavender mixed with accompanying scents.
• You can also create a lavender potpourri with dried lavender, fresh lavender, and a few drops of lavender essential oil. You can add any other types of dried flowers or herbs you want to this, as well.
• For bathrooms you can easily make decorative lavender soap out of simple melt and pour soap bases. These soap bases can be bought at any hobbyist store, such as Michaels. You can also obtain an unlimited amount of molds online or at hobby stores as well. All this requires is taking the soap base of your choice, melting it down, and pouring into molds. To create the lovely lavender scent, just add some lavender essential oil (about 5 drops per cup) to the soap base after it has been melted. Make sure you don't add it in when the base it too warm or it will destroy some of lavenders beneficial properties. When these cool off you will have some very nice smelling soap that can keep your bathroom smelling fresh and clean.

In addition to some of the above home uses, lavender products are starting to show up on store shelves in everything from dish detergents, and laundry detergents, to wrinkle creams and lotions. Everywhere you look you seem to see more and more lavender products on the markets, and with so many benefits, its not hard to see why. To find more uses for lavender and read about all lavenders beneficial properties, check out this great Lavender Essential Oil Guide. There you will find useful information for soapmakers, cosmetic makers, and the everyday consumer as well.

Tag : lavender,lavender essential oil,lavender flower,lavender oil Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ruby_Groves

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. 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 an all natural products, visit n2scents - All Natural Products

What Is Aromatherapy? What Does Aromatherapy Do?

Have you heard about aromatherapy but really don't know what it is? Or are you just confused about where aromatherapy came from and what it's use is? Lets consider a little about the history and uses of aromatherapy.

The term aromatherapy comes from around 1920. At that time a French chemist by the name of Maurice Gattefosse had a vat of lavender oil in his laboratory as he was studying the healing effects of essential oils. There was a fire in his laboratory.

There was a fire at the laboratory and his arm was burnt, so he plunged his arm into the vat of lavender oil, experiencing immediate pain relief from the burns. Not only that but the burns healed very fast and left virtually no scarring.

Other scientist followed up on the work of Maurice Gattefosse during world war 2 when many soldiers were burnt and also experienced all sorts of other life changing wounds. Research was done into the use of essential oils on burns and various other wounds.

In fact, aromatherapy has been around for thousands of years under various names. It has always been the art of using various oils from plants and the scents that those oils produced for very pleasant and sometimes healing effects on people with health conditions.

However, it is not true that aromatherapy "cure" any disease. However, the use of aromatherapy is in helping disease sufferers cope with their various diseases and to improve their mental state. Whilst this is helpful in the overall treatment aromatherapy does not cure illnesses.

It seems that there are indeed a range of psychological benefits from the beautiful scents derived from essential plant oils and these psychological benefits to assist sufferers of illnesses to cope with their disease. Whilst aromatherapy does not cure the disease it does elevate the mood, reduce fear and stress and relax disease sufferers. This helps them cope with the illness.

And in some cases it can also help reduce their dependence on some prescription drugs, for example some pain killers, sleeping tablets, indigestion cures, skin care solutions and so on.

Particular scents have a different effect on different people. Do you find, for example, that a perfume that relaxes you that you love just doesn't do it for your friends? Everyone has a different reaction to various scents, and so aromatherapy is a very personal thing. And many people apply the principles of aromatherapy to their lives without even knowing it. For example, many use various oils, perfumes and lotions with all sorts of soothing scents in their homes because the nice smell makes them feel good. That's aromatherapy at work.

So if you have a disease that you are confronting, and wondering about the role of aromatherapy, don't investigate aromatherapy hoping that it will be a magic cure for all your ills. But don't discount it either, it can do wonders for your moods and for your emotional and mental state, and these can be no less important in some cases. Aromatherapy can, and will often, make a big difference to how your illness, or the cure, progresses.