Health Benefits of Lavender Essential Oil
History of Lavender Oil
Lavender originated in the Mediterranean and still grows wild on hills and mountains across southern Europe. The word lavender comes from the Latin word "lavare" which means to wash. Lavender has been used for thousands of years for many different reasons but primarily it was used as soap and perfume. Lavender was also thought to ward off the evil eye, protect against the plague and attract love.
Lavender remains a popular fragrant due to its fresh, clean scent. It's used in many products such as soaps, detergents, shampoo, perfume and candles. Pure essential lavender oil is the best to use mainly because it has no added chemicals. There are many health benefits and you will actually save money using lavender oil than if you buy commercial products.
Uses For Lavender Oil
There are so many ways to use lavender oil. Here's a list of things that lavender oil can do for you.
Controls acne, leading to clearer skin
May lessen wrinkles and prevent future wrinkles
Can control Eczema
Lessen apperance of bruises
Help to ease arthritis
Cures cold sores
Cures ear infections
Cures bug bites / bee stings
Eases muscle aches
Relieves depression and anxiety
Great for de-stressing and relaxation
Cures headaches
Cures insomnia
How to Use Lavender Oil
Inhale
There are several ways to do this. One is to add a few drops of lavender to a tissue. Put the tissue up to your nose and breathe deeply through your nose and out through your mouth. You can add lavender in a vaporizer filled with water or in a boiling pot of water and breathe in the steam. Inhaling lavender will help you relax, de-stress, alleviate head aches and ease anxiety or depression.
Spray
You'll need a spray bottle. Fill it with distilled water and add about ten drops of lavender oil. It's best to get a dark colored, glass spray bottle. Keep cool in fridge. Use the spray as a facial toner, spray on body to repel mosquitoes or to cure bites and stings. A great way to cure insomnia is to spray lavender on your pillow before going to sleep. .
Topical
You cannot apply lavender directly on your skin. You will have to mix in a little olive, jojoba or flaxseed oil with lavender oil before putting it on your skin. Rub the oil into skin to prevent wrinkles, cure acne and minimize the appearance of bruises. With a cotton ball, apply lavender into ear to ease ear infections. Massage with lavender oil to cure back aches and to relieve stress.
Bath
Anywhere from 15-20 drops in the bath is what you will need. Add lavender oil after tub is filled and water is off. Soaking in the lavender is perfect after a stressful day and will help you sleep at night. Of course, it's also great for your skin.
*Pregnant women should check with their doctor first about aromatherapy. Lavender may not be healthy for a pregnant woman to use. Children should not ingest lavender. Be extra cautious with essential oils around pets because it could harm them.
Where to Buy
Not all of lavender oil you find at the store is pure. Your best bet is to purchase lavender oil at your local health store or grocery stores like Whole Foods. Of all the essential oils, lavender is one of the most expesnive ones, costing anywhere from $10 - $20 a bottle, however it's a great investment because you will use it every day.
Would you like to learn more about essential oils? Read my other hub about the amazing benefits of eucalyptus:
http://amymarie5.hubpages.com/hub/The-Many-Benefits-of-Eucalyptus