Secrets of Lavender Oil Exposed!

Even those out there who aren’t fans of aromatherapy have likely heard at least a little something about lavender essential oil. This probably stems from the fact that lavender is one of the most versatile oils in any aromatherapist’s or apothecary’s tool kit. It is such a versatile essential oil that it has literally been dubbed the Swiss Army Knife of the aromatherapy world! 

Lavender is a very common plant, with namesake-colored purple petals. It has been used in centuries in the creation of potpourris and incense and has been a wildly popular addition to perfumes, lotions, soaps and shampoos. Indeed, the very word lavender comes from the Latin phrase lavare, which means “to wash” and immediately conjures thoughts of the fresh, clean and soothing aroma of lavender. 

Lavender essential oils is obtained through a process known as steam distillation, which results in an oil with a very fresh, floral and woodsy aroma that is popular among not only women’s beauty supplies, but also for babies, too! 

Instead Of Asking What Lavender Can Do, Let’s Ask What it Can’t!

Many essential oils are noted for very specific properties and claims. People will commonly ask, “What is lavender oil used for?” This question should only be asked if you have a LOT of time on your hands, because the list of common complaints and ailments that lavender is recommended for would be longer than your arm. In fact, lavender essential oil is prized for so many different properties that it might actually be easier to ask what you shouldn’t use it for!

Actually, there’s an old saying along the lines of this: “When in doubt, break the lavender out!”

If you asked ten different fans of lavender why they love it so much, most of them will likely cite the fact that lavender works wonders in soothing stress and relieving anxieties. Because of this, it’s commonly employed for tension, headaches and other stress-induced issues. 

Most recently, studies were released which showed a direct correlation between the use of lavender essential oil and feels of trust and security. Now that the cat is out of the bag, lavender oil is frequently being employed in places of business and at the negotiation table. Additional issues that lavender is highly recommended for include easing nausea, relief from anxiety, an insect repellent and a treatment for restlessness. 

One of the most pervasive uses of lavender in the health and wellness market is as a treatment for sleeplessness and insomnia. There are a slew of nighttime tinctures that employ lavender essential oil. Additionally, there are many who swear by lavender oil for its pain relieving properties, including those who suffer from fibromyalgia and other chronic conditions. 

Lavender Plays Well With Others

In addition to being so versatile, lavender is also popular because it pairs well with other essential oils. Common lavender blends include cedarwood, pine, clary sage, geranium oil or nutmeg. Lavender has also been paired well with Roman Chamomile since both oils share some common properties.

In most cases, it’s about personal preference, so feel free to explore different scent combinations based on your own personal tastes.

Lavender Precautions

Although lavender essential oil is generally considered safe for pregnant women, if you are pregnant, thinking of becoming pregnant or are breast feeding, you should consult your OBGYN before using lavender. Those who suffer from diabetes should also resist the temptation to start using lavender without first consulting with their physician. Those with sensitive skin may want to discuss lavender oil with their dermatologist or try using a small amount to see if you have any reactions.

Over-exposure to lavender essential oil can lead to problems with nausea, vomiting and headaches. Lavender essential oil should NOT be taken internally, as it can lead to a host of potential issues. Whenever trying a new essential oil, you should begin using it just to smell (in a diffuser, an aromatherapy inhaler, etc.) before moving on to direct skin contact. Before using topically, you should consider speaking with your trusted medical professional just to be on the safe side.

Secrets of Lavender Essential Oil Exposed!

“When in doubt, try lavender out!”

In the world of aromatherapy, few essential oils are as popular or as effective as lavender. A familiar fragrance frequently associated with the English countryside, the tiny purple flower has been dried and used in remedies and concoctions for centuries.

 

Incredibly versatile, today’s lavender essential oil is harvested using a method known as steam distillation, a system a bit like a moonshine still which expresses the fresh, floral and woodsy oil for use in a host of aromatherapy treatments (from tinctures to “neat” dosages) using hot steam.

In the case of lavender essential oil, its versatility is unmatched. In fact, it’s sometimes easier to narrow down what it can’t do versus the exhaustive list of what it can.

Despite being the Swiss Army Knife of the aromatherapist’s arsenal there are three primary purposes that lavender essential oil is put to: rest and relaxation, as a remedy for insomnia and as a trust and security booster.

Lavender Oil for Rest & Relaxation

Not only is lavender ridiculously effective for increasing the spirit of rest and relaxation, it’s generally considered safe for small children and pregnant women – two pretty considerable fan groups. You’ll frequently fin it in lotions and massage oils and it’s a popular scent in candles. Because of the woodsy undertones, men often don’t find it as offensive as they might more floral notes like rose or ylang ylang.

Lavender has been shown to calm down the nervous system an also to slow the heart rate down.

Lavender Oil as an Insomnia Remedy

At bedtime and bath-time, lavender is a clear winner. There is even some evidence to suggest that lavender actually stimulates the brainwaves that naturally promote deeper, more satisfying sleep.

What some people don’t know is that large amounts of lavender in high concentrations can actually have the opposite effect and serve as a stimulant. So, if your goal is a good night’s sleep, less is more.

Lavender Oil as a Trust & Security Booster

A recent study found that when measured against other essential oils, lavender is the hands down winner to inspire feelings of trust and security. This could have significant implications at negotiating tables, closing tables and even first-date dinner tables.

Considering how these three major benefits of lavender oil play upon one another’s strengths, it should come as no surprise that lavender could be a powerful ally in the quest to increase confidence in public speaking, presentations and other intimidating social settings.

However, for the sake of safety, be careful not to dose yourself with lavender oil while driving or on long road trips. If you need to be alert and invigorated, either skip lavender altogether or pair it with a stimulating citrus essential oil like lemon, tangerine or grapefruit. 

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