Essential Lavender Oil - 5 Great Ways to Use It!

Essential Lavender Oil is the #1 Oil sold by Aromatherapists around the world. It is the very first choice that the general public chooses and which aromatherapists recommend the most.

What is the reason for this phenomenon?

Why is Essential Lavender Oil the most loved oil?

What distinguishes it from the rest of the essential oils?

Essential Lavender has been the most popular since the beginning of the ages as far as we can trace it. The Greeks and Romans perfumed their baths with Lavender and it was a popular facial water between the 14th and 19th Centuries.

It was also burned as incense to the gods & goddesses and carried during the plague to ward off the diseases which were so prevalent.

The name Lavender comes from the Latin verb meaning "to Wash." Lavender was essential to everyday living. It is even believed to ward off the evil eye.

Essential lavender oil blends well with many other Essential Oils also such as: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Chamomile, Clary Sage, Clove, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Fennel, Frankincense, Geranium, Grapefruit, Jasmine, Juniper Berry, Lemon, Lemongrass, Linden Blossom, Mandarin, Marjoram, Melissa, Myrrh, Neroli, Niaouli, Orange, Oakmoss, Patchouli, Peppermint, Pine, Rose, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Tea tree, Vetivert and Ylang Ylang.

Some of Essential Lavender Oil properties are: It is analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-septic, anti-rheumatic, a cell regenerator and a disinfectant.

I would like you to note this very carefully. Most aromatherapy books and web sites say that you can use Lavender oil and/or Tea tree oil undiluted on the skin. This is what is known as a neat application. BUT the big surprise is that they are finding more and more people are becoming sensitized to these mild oils because they were not diluted in a suitable carrier oil.

ALWAYS DILUTE ANY ESSENTIAL OIL BEFORE USING ON THE SKIN!

Essential Lavender Oil can be used for so, so many things, I cannot write them all down in one article. But because of its diversity and the ability to be sedating or stimulating depending on its dosage this has made it the number #1 oil in aromatherapy.

Now, how can you use Essential Lavender Oil? I will tell you 5 ways as I promised

1. Essential Lavender Oil can be used in a candle light diffuser. Simply add 3-4 drops in some water on the top and light the candle underneath.
2. Essential Lavender Oil can be placed on a cotton ball and placed inside your pillow at night for sweet, relaxing dreams
3. Essential Lavender Oil can be added to your evening bath by adding it to a teaspoon of carrier oil or honey. 10 drops per bath is about right.
4. Essential Lavender Oil can be added to a Tissue Kleenex and then stick it on a fan. The fan will cause the Essential Lavender to permeate the immediate area. This is great if you are stressed out.
5. Lastly, for this article, Essential Lavender Oil can be added to 15ml of carrier oil and massaged gently into your skin. If you can get a loving partner to do it for you then it will be even more relaxing.

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

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

All About Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender Essential Oil is often referred to as the universal oil, because there is such a multitude of uses for this oil, such as cuts, bruises, burns, headaches, and insomnia.

LAVENDER (Lavandula angustifolia)

ACTION: Antiseptic, analgesic, antitumoral, anticonvulsant, sedative, anti-inflammatory. Lavender essential oil is beneficial for cleansing cuts and wounds and is ideal for skin care, since it prevents the build up of excess sebum, a skin oil that bacteria feed on. Lavender has also been clinically evaluated for its relaxing effects.

TRADITIONAL USES: The French scientist Rene Gatefosse was the first to discover Lavender's ability to promote tissue regeneration and speed wound healing when he severely burned his arm in a laboratory accident. He immediately immersed his arm into a bowl of liquid sitting on a table near him.

The liquid was Lavender essential oil. The pain quickly went away and the wound healed in a short time without scarring. Today, Lavender essential oil is one of the few essential oils to still be listed in the British Pharmacopoeia.

INDICATIONS: Burns (cell renewal), sunburns (including lips), dandruff, hair loss, allergies, convulsions, herpes, headaches, indigestion, insomnia, high blood pressure, menopausal conditions, nausea, phlebitis, tumors, premenstrual conditions, scarring (minimizes), skin conditions (acne, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and rashes) and stretch marks. It may be used to cleanse cuts, bruises, and skin irritations

FRAGRANCE INFUENCE: Calming, relaxing, and balancing, both physically and emotionally.University of Miami researchers found that inhalation of lavender oil increased beta waves in the brain, suggesting heightened relaxation. It also reduced depression and improved cognitive performance (Diego et al., 1998)

Aromatherapy uses Lavender essential oil when treating psychological problems such as nervousness, insomnia, stress, depression, melancholy, fear and irritability. This oil helps stimulate and regenerate the nervous system and bring a feeling of calm

OTHER USES: Lavender is a universal oil with many different applications. It may help arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, convulsions, depression, earaches, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, hives (urticaria), insect bites, laryngitis, nervous tension, respiratory infections, rheumatism, and throat infections.

A Note Caution: If you are going to put Lavender essential oil on a burn you had better make sure it is 100% therapeutic grade essential oil from a reputable company you trust!

When you actually have a burn that you are trying to treat with Lavender essential oil and you are unknowingly instead putting more caustic chemicals onto your burn this can be serious trouble.

Lavender essential oil that is produced commercially is often distilled for only 15 minutes with a steam temperature of up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and up to 155 pounds of pressure. Although the oil is easily marketed and sold, it is of very poor quality.

Some people are more concerned about the price than the quality. You can easily sell inexpensive Lavender essential oil if you can produce a pound of oil in 15 minutes instead of a pound of oil in an hour an a half by using lower heat and lower pressure to preserve the integrity of the oil.

In the larger fields of the world at distillation time, you can see chemical trucks hooked into the distillers pumping solvents into the water already in the boiler. This increases oil production by as much as 18 percent.

However, when you put a chemical in the water and force it with steam into the plant, it causes a fracturing of the molecular structure of the oil, altering its fragrance and constituents. Also you cannot separate the chemicals from the oil after they come through the condenser.

Today most of the Lavender oil sold in America is a hybrid called Lavandin, grown and distilled in China, Russia and Tasmania. It is brought into France, cut with synthetic linolyl acetate to improve the fragrance, added to propylene glycol or SD 40, DEP, and DOP (solvents that increase the volume), and then sold in the US as lavender oil.

Oftentimes Lavandin is heated to flash off the camphor, and then synthetic linolyl acetate is added so that it appears as lavender. Consumers do not know the difference and are happy to buy Lavandin for $5 to $7 per half ounce in health food stores, and through mail order.

These synthetic and adulterated oils can cause rashes, burns, or other irritations. We wonder why we do not get the benefits we were expecting and conclude that essential oils do not have much value. When synthetic fragrance constituents are added, the essential oil becomes weaker and weaker with each stage of distillation.

Many people have jumped on the bandwagon because of the money making potential they see in essential oils. They buy cheap oils, rebottle them, label them as 100 percent pure essential oils, and market them without ever knowing their origin or who was responsible for distillation.

It is critical to make sure you are using 100% therapeutic grade essential oils from a reputable company that you trust.

To ensure that you are getting therapeutic-grade essential oils, find a company that submits their oils for routine testing by independent laboratories and whose oils are from organic source, distilled without chemical solvents at minimum temperatures and pressures, and are bottled straight from the still with no alterations or adulterations.

Oils with warnings on them about potential toxicity are probably not therapeutic or safe to use, except in massage, where they are diluted down to a 2-5% concentration in neutral carrier oil. The proof of an oil's quality is in its manifested benefits when you use it.

A few ideas of the many ways to use 100% Therapeutic Grade Lavender Essential Oil:

Rub Lavender oil on the feet for a calming effect on the body.

Rub a drop of Lavender oil on your palms and smooth on your pillow to help you sleep.

Put a drop of Lavender oil on a bee sting or insect bite to stop itching and reduce swelling.

Put 2-3 drops of Lavender oil on a minor burn to decrease pain.

Mix several drops of Lavender oil with V-6 Vegetable Mixing Oil and use topically on eczema and dermatitis.

To alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness, place a drop of Lavender oil on the end of the tongue or around the naval or behind the ears.

To stop a nosebleed, put a drop of Lavender oil on a tissue and wrap it around a small chip of ice. Push the tissue covered ice chip up under the middle of the top lip to the base of the nose and hold as long as comfortable or until the bleeding stops (do not freeze the lip or gum).

Rub a drop of Lavender oil over the bridge of the nose to unblock tear ducts.

Rub Lavender oil on dry or chapped skin

Rub a drop of Lavender oil on chapped or sunburned lips.

To reduce or minimize the formation of scar tissue, massage Lavender oil on and around the affected area

Rub 2 to 4 drops of Lavender oil over the armpit area to act as a deodorant.

Rub a drop of Lavender oil between your palms and inhale deeply to help alleviate the symptoms of hay fever.

Rub several drops of Lavender oil into the scalp to help eliminate dandruff.

Place a few drops of Lavender oil on a cotton ball and place in your linen closet to scent the linens and repel moths and insects.

Place a drop of Lavender oil in your water fountain to scent the air, kill bacteria and prolong the time between cleanings.

Place a few drops of Lavender oil on a wet cloth and throw into the dryer, which will deodorize and freshen your laundry.

Put a drop of Lavender oil on a cold sore.

Diffuse Lavender oil to alleviate the symptoms of allergies.

Spritz several drops of Lavender oil mixed with distilled water on a sunburn to decrease pain.

Drop Lavender oil on a cut to clean the wound and kill bacteria.

Apply 2-3 drops of Lavender oil to a rash to stop the itching and heal the skin.

PLEASE NOTE: The information in this article is based solely on the use of 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils due to their high quality and tested purity.

The use of a brand of uncertain quality and/or purity will provide you with potentially dangerous, if not lethal, results. The author assumes no responsibility for your improper use of this information.

The statements about these oils have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Tags: Short, Quickly, Designed, Show, Takes, Lavender

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/all-about-lavender-essential-oil-137.html

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

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

Lavender Aromatherapy Improves Health

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.

Jennifer has more than twenty years experience with all natural health care. She provides all natural aromatherapy products through http://www.sweetmedicineessentials.com/aromatherapy-c-7.html

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

The Secrets of the Lavender Essential Oil

The Lavender essential oil is one of the most popular and most healing essential oils on the market. In this article, we'll give a brief overview of the history of the Lavender essential oil, go over the wide range of ailments this essential oil can cure, then finally practically ways you can use the lavender essential oil. By the end of this article, you'll know both what Lavender is used for, as well as how to use it.

A Brief History of the Lavender Essential Oil

The Lavender Essential Oil was first discovered by Dr. Rene Gattefosse in the 1920's. He was doing experiments in his lab when he made a mistake and burned his hand. The only thing that he had on hand at the moment was a jar of extracted lavender oil that he had next to him. The first thought that came to mind was to plunge his hand into the extracted lavender oil.

To his great surprise, he instantly felt soothed and relieved. His burn healed much more quickly than it would have otherwise. He realized that his hand was soothed as a result of the lavender oil.

As a scientist, he got very curious about the effects of lavender and other essential oils. He began to do further research into lavender and the extracts of other plants. His research started the trend that has today become aromatherapy.

Uses of the Lavender Essential Oil

There are many uses of the Lavender Essential Oil, from curing very common ailments to the more obscure.

Some of these include:

Sweaty Skin, Acne, Stress Relieve, Allergies, Reducing Anxiety, Reducing Itching, Faster recovery of stress marks, relief from mild sunburn, Athlete's Foot, Asthma, Blisters, Bruises, Burns & Scalds
As you can see, lavender really has a wide range of uses.

How to Use the Lavender Essential Oil

There are many ways to use the lavender essential oil. Here, we'll go over three simple ways:

1) Drop 10 drops into a bathtub full of water and enjoy a nice, relaxing soak. The diluted essential oil will gradually affect its healing properties on your body while you take a bath.

2) You can dilute the lavender oil in carrier oil and rub it directly on your skin. It's generally not a good idea to rub essential oils directly on your skin, even with lavender.

3) You can diffuse the oil in the air. One way to do that is to soak a tissue with the oil and put it on a fan. This will have the oil gradually spray itself throughout the air.

You now know what the lavender essential oil is, its uses and how to use it for yourself. While you can experiment with the lavender oil at home, it can also be an amazing experience to experience the healing effects of the lavender oil at the hands of an aromatherapist or a massage therapist.

Keep in mind that if you have any serious physical ailments, consult a doctor before applying your own cures. Lavender oil isn't a replacement for real medical attention when it comes to more serious issues.

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

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

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 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 -- Nature's Aid To Stress Relief

The essential oil of lavender (in particular, of Lavandula augustifolia) has been recognised for its healing properties since ancient times, and it has been used traditionally to treat many disorders, including:

• insomnia
• skin complaints, such as dermatitis, acne, allergies, insect bites, mild burns, athlete's foot and general wounds
• gastrointestinal disorders, such as flatulence
• pain, such as headaches, rheumatism, muscular aches, labour pains and period pains.(1)

Lavender was used extensively during World War I whenever medical supplies became scarce, to both prevent infection and relieve pain. The aroma of lavender has been reported to be calming,(2) and is thought to be particularly useful in stressful situations.(1)

Until recently, evidence supporting the efficacy of lavender essential oil in these conditions has tended to be largely anecdotal, but medical research is now beginning to show that this oil may indeed have medicinal properties. A recent review of the biological activities of lavender essential oil concluded that there is “both scientific and clinical data that support the traditional uses of lavender”.(3)

Lavender essential oil prevents infection

Lavender essential oil has been shown to have antiseptic, antibiotic and antifungal activity,(4–7) and also to have efficacy in the laboratory against bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics (e.g. methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus [MRSA]).(6)

Lavender essential oil aids insomnia and quality of sleep

Lavender aromatherapy was found to improve sleep in older hospitalised patients, and reduced the need for night sedation.(8) Massage with lavender essential oil improved quality of sleep in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.(9)

Lavender essential oil reduces anxiety

Lavender aromatherapy message has been shown to reduce levels of anxiety in intensive care patients,(10) and the aroma of lavender decreased anxiety in patients undergoing haemodialysis.(11)

Lavender essential oil relieves pain

Massage with lavender oil reduced the perception of pain in patients with chronic rheumatoid arthritis,(9) and in women who had given birth, lavender baths reduced perineal pain and discomfort 3–5 days post-natally.(12)

Lavender essential oil controls alopecia (hair loss)

A combination of lavender, rosemary, cedarwood and thyme essential oils has been reported to improve hair growth in patients with alopecia.(13)

Lavender essential oil aids indigestion

Lavender is currently recommended for the treatment of indigestion and nervous intestinal discomfort by the German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices Commission E, a committee made up of scientists, toxicologists, doctors and pharmacists formed by the German government in 1978.(14)

Conclusion

These findings still require further investigation, and research into the medical properties of lavender and other essential oils continues. The use of aromatherapy can not be recommended as a substitute for medical care and, if taken for medical reasons, this should be under the guidance of a qualified aromatherapist.

Nevertheless, it is slowly becoming evident that many of the traditional medicinal properties attributed to lavender could be based in scientific fact.

References:

1. Lawless J. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils. Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995:56–67.
2. Buchbauer G et al. Aromatherapy: evidence for sedative effects of the essential oil of lavender after inhalation. Z Naturforsch [C] 1991;46:1067–72.
3. Cavanagh HMA, Wilkinson JM. Biological activities of lavender essential oil. Phytother Res 1002;16:301–8.
4. Lis-Balchin M et al. Relationship between bioactivity and chemical composition of commercial essential oils. Flavour Fragr J 1008;13:98–1004.
5. Hammer K et al. Antimicrobial activity of essential oils and other plant extracts. J Appl Microbiol 1999;86:985–90.
6. Nelson RR. In-vitro activities of five plant essential oils against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium. J Antimicrob Chemother 1997;40:305–6.
7. Horne D. Antimicrobial effects of essential oils on Streptococcus pneumoniae. JEOR 2001;13:387–92.
8. Graham C. Complementary therapies: in the scent of a good night’s sleep. Nurs Stand 1995;9:21.
9. Brownfield A. Aromatherapy in arthritis: a study. Nurs Stand 1998;13:34–5.
10. Dunn C et al. Sensing an improvement: an experimental study to evaluate the use of aromatherapy, massage and periods of rest in an intensive care unit. J Adv Nurs 1995;21:34–40.
11. Itai T et al. Psychological effects of aromatherapy on chronic hemodialysis patients. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2000;54:393–7.
12. Dale A, Cornwell S. The role of lavender oil in relieving perineal discomfort following childbirth: a blind randomized clinical trial. J Adv Nurs 1994;19:89–96.
13. Hay IC et al. Randomized trial of aromatherapy. Successful treatment for alopecia areata. Arch Dermatol 1998;134:1349–52.
14. Blumenthal M et al. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications, 2000:226–9.

Dr Gillian Hale also writes about using aromatherapy essential oils to help relieve stress. For more information regarding Lavender oil,stress at work, stress busting with essential oils, please visit: Alternative Aromatherapy Stress Busting for natural aromatherapy stress relief.

Dr Gillian Hale is also the co-founder of aromatherapy-stress-relief.com a home based UK business providing hand made Aromatherapy Stress Relief Gifts.

copyright © 2006 Gillian Hale (CUS Busting Ltd)

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

Lavender - the Universal Essential Oil

Ancient Romans added lavender to their bath water to induce a calming and relaxing effect (lavender comes from the Latin word “lavare”, which means “to wash”). Over the years, this herb continued to gain popularity for treating a whole range of ailments, from muscle pain and headaches to depression and irritability, not to mention general sleep disorders. Lavender was also popular in the Victorian age – people often carried handkerchiefs perfumed with the scent to calm anxiety.

Lavender has a clean, powerful, floral, powdery, and pleasing aroma. It is pale yellow in color. It is the most versatile and adulterated of all essential oils. Therapeutic-grade lavender is calming, sedative, a muscular relaxant, anti-inflammatory, a powerful tonic for the entire system.
It is highly regarded for use in skin conditions such as acne, to soothe burns and scalds. Lavender has been clinically evaluated for its relaxing effects. It may be used to cleanse cuts, bruises and skin irritations. Inhaled, it can ease depression, nervous tension and just relax the tensions – physically and emotionally.

There have been many research studies on lavender. In a study conducted at the University of Miami’s Touch Research Institute published in the International Journal of Neuroscience, adults exposed to lavender showed increased beta power, suggesting increased relaxation. The subjects in this study performed math computations faster and with fewer errors and experienced less depression.

Lavender is balancing and is useful for a multitude of ailments. It is considered the universal oil and is good for all skin types. It helps the body regenerate new skin cells and minimizes scarring, an excellent oil for sunburns and other types of burns, useful in healing acne and eczema, good for hair and scalp. This oil is very good for headaches, especially PMS headaches, as well as sharp aches and pains. Use it to calm the nervous system, lower high blood pressure, calms palpitations, is balancing to the central nervous system.

Use lavender oil on hyperactive children and dogs to calm them. This oil clears the spirit while gently soothing it, relieving anger, exhaustion and stress, and is very useful for manic-depressives in balancing the ups and downs.

Lavender brings energy of peace to all the chakras of the body, as well as opening the heart and crown chakra. It encourages feelings of patience and security. It balances the heart chakra system.

Precautions: None, use small doses on children and dogs or cats.

1. Rub lavender oil on the bottoms of the feet for a calming effect on the body.

2. Rubbing a drop of lavender oil on the palms and smoothed on the bedtime pillow may aid sleep.

3. A drop of lavender oil on a bee sting or insect bite may soothe itching, stinging and discomfort.

4. 2-3 drops of lavender oil may soothe a minor burn.

5. Add a few drops of lavender oil to chilled water in a spray bottle and spritz the skin for a soothing, cooling, fragrant pick-me-up.

6. Mixing several drops of lavender oil with V-6™ Enhanced Vegetable Oil Complex, almond or jojoba oil and applied topically may be soothing to skin irritations.

7. Placing a drop of lavender oil on the end of the tongue, around the naval, or behind the ears may help to alleviate motion sickness symptoms.

8. A drop of lavender oil on C-5 vertebra can relieve hiccups.

9. Rubbing lavender oil that has been blended into V-6™ Enhanced Vegetable Oil Complex, jojoba or almond oil on dry or chapped skin may bring relief.

10. Rubbing lavender oil that has been blended into V-6™ Enhanced Vegetable Oil Complex, jojoba or almond oil on chapped or sunburned lips may relieve the discomfort.

11. Massaging lavender oil around the area of scar tissue may help in reducing and/or minimizing the appearance the scar.

12. Rubbing 2 – 4 drops of lavender oil on the armpit area may act as a deodorant.

13. Rubbing a drop of lavender oil between your palms and inhaling deeply may help in alleviating the discomfort of airborne pollen and/or dust.

14. Rubbing several drops of lavender oil into the scalp may help with dry scalp and flaking.

15. A few drops of lavender oil on a cotton ball placed in the linen closet will scent the linens and may help repel moths and insects.

16. A drop of lavender oil in a water fountain will scent the air and may help sanitize and prolong the time between cleanings.

17. A few drops of lavender oil on a wet cloth tossed into the dryer, can deodorize and freshen the laundry.

18. Diffusing lavender oil may support the body’s natural defenses against air borne sensitivities to the skin and immune system.

19. Spraying several drops of lavender oil mixed with distilled water on sunburn can help soothe it.

20. Dropping lavender oil on a cut may help clean the wound, sanitize and soothe it.

21. Applying 2-3 drops of lavender oil combined with vitamin E oil to a rash may help and soothe the skin.

Tamara Boswell Petrucci is a licensed esthetician, certified Reiki practitioner, reflexologist and aromatherapist. Her practice is in north Orange County, CA. Her website is http://www.TamarasSkinCare.com Tamara publishes her blog at http://www.TamarasSkinCare.blogspot.com More information on her essential oil products can be found at http://www.YoungLiving.com/TamaraSkinCare

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

45 Great Ways To Use Essential Oils

45 Great Ways to Use Essential Oils and Achieve Amazing Results
1. To help a scented candle, place a drop or two of essential oil into the hot melted wax as the candle bums.
2. For tired aching muscles or arthritis, mix 1 part Deep Blue oil to 4 parts Fractionated Coconut Oil and use as massage oil.
3. Ease headache pain by rubbing a drop of Rosemary, Peppermint, or Lavender oil onto the back of your neck.
4. To blend your own massage oil, add 3-5 drops of your favorite essential oil to 1 oz. Fractionated Coconut oil.
5. Add 10 drops of your favorite oil to a box of cornstarch or baking soda and mix. Let it sit for a day. Sprinkle over the carpets on your home. Let sit for an hour and vacuum.
6. To make a natural flea collar, saturate a short piece of cord or soft rope with Melaleuca oil, roll up in a handkerchief and tie loosely around the animal’s neck.
7. Shoes can be freshened by either dropping a few drops of Geranium essential oil directly into the shoes or by placing a cotton ball dabbed with a few drops of Lemon oil into the shoes.
8. Put a couple drops of your favorite essential oil on a cotton ball and place it in your vacuum cleaner bag. Lemon or Purify are nice. Geranium helps with pet odors.
9. For good smelling towels, sheets, clothes, etc. place a few drops of your favorite essential oil onto a small piece of terry cloth and toss into the clothes dryer while drying. Add 5 drops essential oil to 1/4 cup fabric softener or water and place in the center cup of the washer.
10. Athlete’s foot? Melaleuca is great!
11. Potpourri which has lost its scent can be revived by adding a few drops of essential oil.
12. Add a few drops of essential oil to water in a spray bottle and use as an air freshener.
13. To fragrance your kitchen cabinets and drawers, place a good scent dabbed on a cotton ball into an inconspicuous comer.
14. Are mice a problem? Place several drops of Peppermint oil on a cotton ball and place at problem locations.
15. The bathroom is easily scented by placing oil-scented cotton balls in inconspicuous places, or sprinkle oils directly onto silk or dried flower arrangements or wreaths.
16. Apply Lavender oil or Melaleuca oil directly to cuts, scrapes or scratches. 1 or 2 drops will promote healing.
17. Homemade sachets are more fragrant when essential oils are blended with the flowers and herbs.
18. An essential oil dropped onto a radiator scent ring or light bulb will not only fill the room with a wonderful fragrance, but will also set a mood such as calming or uplifting (don’t put essential oil in the socket).
19. A few drops of your favorite oil or blend in the rinse water of your hand washables makes for pleasant results.
20. Melaleuca oil has been used by fishermen for years. Use a drop or two on the fingertips before baiting up. Melaleuca covers up the human scent that scares the fish away.
21. Homemade soaps are pleasant and offer therapeutic effects when scented with essential oils.
22. To lower fevers, simply rub Peppermint essential oil on the feet, neck, and forehead.
23. To dispel mosquitoes and other picnic pests, drop a few drops of Terra Shield on the melted wax of a candle or place a few drops on the hot coals.
24. 1 drop of Lemon essential oil applied directly to a wart is an effective means of elimination. Apply the essential oil daily until the wart is gone.
25. Rosemary or Peppermint promote alertness and stimulates memory. Inhale occasionally during long car trips and while reading or studying.
26. Add Cinnamon oil to furniture polish and wipe down the wood for a great fragrance
27. Overindulge last night? Essential oils of Lavender, Rosemary and Lemon help soften the effects of a hangover. Make your own blend of these oils and use a total of 6-8 drops in a bath.
28. Essential oils of Cypress, Frankincense and Myrrh all make wonderful firewood oil. Drop approximately 2-3 drops of oil or blend of your choice on a dried log and allow time for the oil to soak in before putting the log on the fire.
29. Add 1 drop Geranium oil to your facial moisturizer to bring out a radiant glow in your skin.
30. A wonderful massage blend for babies is 1 drop Wild Orange, 1 drop Lavender, and 1 drop Geranium diluted in 2 Tablespoons Fractionated Coconut oil.
31. Flies and moths dislike Lavender oil. Sprinkle it on the outside of your window frames.
32. Place 1 or 2 drops of Lavender on your pillow and 2 drops to the bottom of each foot before retiring for restful sleep.
33. Ideal scents for the bedroom are Geranium, Lavender or Lemon.
34. One drop of Lemon essential oil on a soft cloth will polish copper with a gentle buffing.
35. When washing out the fridge, freezer or oven, add 1 drop of Lemon or Wild Orange essential oil to the final rinse water.
36. For burns or scalds, drop Lemon or Melaleuca oil directly on the effected area.
37. Place 1 drop of Peppermint oil in 1/2 glass of water, sip slowly to aid digestion and relieve upset stomach.
38. Use 1 drop of Melaleuca or On Guard oil on a washcloth wrapped ice cube to relieve teething pain in children.
39. Six to eight drops of Eucalyptus oil in the bath cools the body in summer and protects in winter.
40. Place 1 or 2 drops of Rosemary on your hair brush before brushing to promote growth and thickness.
41. When the flu is going around add a few drops of Thyme to your diffuser or simmer in a pan on the stove.
42. To bring fever down, sponge the body with cool water to which 1 drop each of Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Lavender oils have been added.
43. The blend of Lavender and Lemon oil is good for the office. Lavender creates a calm tranquil atmosphere while Lemon stimulates the senses and clears up stale air.
44. A blend of Geranium, Lavender and Wild Orange alleviates anxiety and depression. Use in a room diffuser or 6-8 drops of this blend in the bath.
45. Apply a drop of lemon 1-4 times per day on a canker sore to neutralize and repair it.

By: anxiety

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Lavender Oil Aromatherapy

There are many types of oils used in relation to aromatherapy, all different in order to achieve different effects. Aromatherapy oils are most commonly divided into several different categories. These categories include:

* essential oils
* absolutes
* floral waters (hydrosols)
* resins
* carrier oils
* infused oils

Lavender oil aromatherapy falls into the first category listed, the essential oils category.

Lavender oil aromatherapy is a liquid most often distilled from the purple blossoms of the lavender plant, or also known as lavendula officinalis. Lavender oil is usually extracted by using a delicate process involving water or steam. Being extracted this way, lavender oil aromatherapy most often captures the absolute essence of the lavender plant itself. It is normally so highly concentrated that a few drops is all that is necessary to reap lavender oil's full therapeutic benefits.

The appearance of lavender oil is normally clear, with just a hint of yellow. With it being called lavender oil, one may think it is an oily substance. However, despite it's name, lavender oil aromatherapy is not oily. To the contrary, the consistency of lavender oil aromatherapy is one of the thinnest among all of the other essential oils.

Because the consistency of lavender oil aromatherapy is so thin, the smell of this scent only goes to a medium level. However, once the medium scent starts to settle in the air, lavender oil aromatherapy can be one of the most relaxing scents there is. It is not too strong, and it is not too light. Lavender oil aromatherapy smells very fresh, as well as sweet, with just a twist of a floral aroma. Some people think lavender oil also smells a little fruity.

As with most aromatherapy oils, lavender oil aromatherapy is most often used by diluting it with carrier oils. These carrier oils can include:

* sweet almond oil
* apricot kernel oil
* grape seed oil

Once the oils are blended, they are usually applied to the skin for the best adsorbtion.

In addition to applying lavender oil aromatherapy to the skin, it may also be used by careful inhalation. Once the lavender oil molecules enter the lungs, these oils can then be absorbed into the bloodstream. This will provide you with the therapeutic benefits you need to soothe whatever ailments you may be experiencing.

There are a wide variety of ailments that lavender oil aromatherapy may help treat. Some of these health issues can include:

* acne
* allergies
* anxiety
* asthma
* athlete's foot

Lavender oil aromatherapy can also help treat ailments such as bruises, burns, colic and chicken pox. Those with cuts, who are suffering with depression, or have an earache may also benefit from the therapeutic benefits of lavender oil aromatherapy. Other possible uses for this healthy oil can include headache treatment, treatment of hypertension, as an insect repellant, to relieve itching, to help reduce labor pains, to treat oily skin, skin scarring, stretch marks, as well as to treat whooping cough.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=106826&ca=Medicines+and+Remedies

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.

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

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 essential 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!

If you or someone you love gets a bad burn, therapeutic grade lavender essential oil is one choice. For more free tips and tools on using essential oils, I invite you to visit

http://www.EssentialOilsLady.com and click on Newsletter or Resources.

This article is written with the assumption that my readers are using only therapeutic grade essential oils, and that they and their health care professional consult with the Essential Oils Desk Reference. And when you're ready to get started using essential oils, I invite you to visit

http://www.EssentialOilsProducts.com and look for the Essential 7 Kit, which contains lavender essential oil.

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

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 - 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 essential,lavender essential oil

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