Are you feeling stressed out, anxious, unable to sleep? Have you ever considered using alternative means to achieve a more relaxed state of being? Perhaps you should consider using Lavender essential oil to help you relax your body and rejuvenate your mind. Lavender has been used in many natural remedies throughout history. Its therapeutic properties are many, and are scientifically backed.
The lavender plant is a shrub standing about two feet tall. Lavender is native to the Mediterranean and can be found in the mountainous areas. However, it can now be commonly found in many areas in the United States, Australia, and Europe. The lavender essential oil is extracted from the plant’s fragrant blue flowers.
Lavender essential oil has many uses. It is commonly used in aromatherapy to promote restfulness, relaxation, and a calmer state of mind. Studies have shown that lavender has a calming effect on the central nervous system and can be used to reduce stress, relieve headaches, and even to help you sleep. It also has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system.
Lavender essential oil used for aromatherapy can be found in a variety of forms, including candles, potpourri, scent pots, reed diffusers, home and body sprays, shampoos, and soaps. Use of aromatic lavender before bed can make it easier to fall asleep and allow for a more restful sleeping period. Lavender essential has also been known reduce pain and improve pain tolerance when used aromatically. Lavender Essential Oil: Topical Uses
Lavender essential oil has many topical uses as well. It is commonly used to treat fungal infections in the skin, small scratches, acne, eczema, and even mild burns. Massage therapists can use lavender essential oil in their lotions and oils to help promote a relaxed feeling in their clients when giving a massage. Lavender essential oil added to a warm bath can help to reduce itching on the skin and reduce joint and muscle pain.
In a study performed on patients with alopecia areata (an autoimmune disease causing hair loss), it was shown that patients who used on oil blend including lavender essential on their scalps showed significant improvement in hair regrowth. However, it is not known for sure which oil or combination of oils caused this. Please see a physician for proper dosing before using topical oils on small children.
Lavender essential oil has a very floral scent and is very potent. Pure lavender essential oils range in price from five to twenty-five dollars depending on the amount of lavender in the bottle. When mixed with a base oil, it only requires one to four drops of lavender essential oil per tablespoon of base oil. Lavender essential oil can be added directly to hot water. For aromatic uses add one drop to two cups of boiling water, or add a few drops to a full warm bath.
Lavender essential oil is toxic if taken orally. See your physician if rash, itching or unusual redness occurs when applied topically or if you have trouble breathing after use. Lavender essential oil should not be used as a replacement for medicines prescribed by your doctor.
