Lavender is the most loved aromatic used in aromatherapy today. Besides being versatile, its lightly floral and soothing scent is one that most people find appealing. In therapeutic terms, lavender is the most useful oil, and one that every aromatherapy kit should include. It’s also one of the few essential oils that can be applied neat. (Essential oils are highly concentrated plant oils. Read and follow instructions for use carefully.) Lavender has a long history of use in many different cultures, but is probably most associated with the English for its use in many of their perfumes.
Also worthy of mention is the essential oil lavandin (Lavandula hydrida), a hybrid form of lavender. While it provides most of the same benefits as lavender, it is more penetrating and has a sharper scent. These qualities make it perfect to combat respiratory, muscular, and and circulatory ailments.
Therapeutic uses:
Acne, alopecia, anxiety, asthma, bee and wasp stings, bronchial problems, depression, eczema, dermatitis, flu symptoms, insect repellent, insomnia, hay fever, headaches, menstruation regulation, migraine, minor cuts and burns, mood swings, nervous tension, nightmares, psoriasis, rashes, sleep aid, stress amd sunburn.
Essential Oil Applications:
For skin problems, including acne, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, rashes, and sunburn, place 2-3 drops on a cotton ball and dab on affected area.
As a tonic for hair growth, mix 2-3 drops in a quarter-sized application of unscented, leave-on conditioner and massage into scalp.
To alleviate headaches and migraines, massage a couple of drops into temples. Can also use in a hot or cold compress.
To relieve insomnia or aid sleep, use 2-3 drops in a diffuser, or place same amount on a cotton ball or handkerchief, and place inside pillowcase. Can also use 8-10 drops in a bath before bedtime.
For anxiety, depression, nervous tension, stress, or to balance mood swings, use 2-3 drops in a diffuser. Can also use 8-10 drops in a bath. To guard against nightmares, use 8-10 drops in a bath before bedtime.
For menstrual regulation or PMS, use 4-5 drops in 1 ounce of carrier oil and massage on abdomen and lower back.
For bee and wasp stings, place 2-3 drops on a cotton ball and dab on affected area.
To lessen flu symptoms, use 2-3 drops in a diffuser, or as a steam inhalation.
To repel moths, use several drops on cotton balls, and place strategically in linen closet and/or wardrobe.
For asthma, bronchial problems, and hay fever, use 2-3 drops in a diffuser or as a steam inhalation. Can also use 8-10 drops in bath, or use 4-5 drops in 1 ounce of carrier oil and rub on chest area.
Mixes Well With:
Almost all oils, and particularly well with allspice, anise, basil, bergamot, citronella, chamomile, clary sage, clove, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, grapefruit, hyssop, jasmine, juniper, lemon, lime, marjoram, myrrh, oregano, palmarosa, patchouli, peppermint, pine, rose, rosemary, spearmint, tangerine, tea tree, and thyme.
Extraction Method:
Steam distillation.
Parts Used:
Fresh flowering tops.
Safety Information:
Can make those with low blood pressure drowsy.
More Info:
The Power of Aromatherapy
Getting Started with Aromatherapy
The Choosing, Blending and the Caring of Your Essential Oils
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Thank you for the information! Most people don’t often see all the useful ways lavender oil can be used; I also love putting some on my pillow to help me sleep.
Hello, great article. Just wanted to add that if hair loss is not genetic, jojoba oil can sometimes be helpful in “regenerating” hair growth. Jojoba is excellent for controlling sebum and will remove the sebum for the scalp, that may be blocking hair follicles.