Lavender

Lavandula officinalis/augustifolia

Floral

For anyone interested in aromatherapy and essential oils, Lavender really is a “must have”! It has so many physiological and psychological benefits. It is also one of the least expensive of the essential oils, is easy to obtain [some aren’t], and is one of the very few that can safely be used neat on the skin. It is gentle and is suitable for use on children. It blends well with most other oils and has great versatility. Lavender oil is invaluable in the home first aid kit for cuts minor burns and scalds, blisters and insect bites-for which it can be applied undiluted. It is an excellent pain reliever for headaches; blended with a carrier oil and massaged into the temples, it gives quick relief.

For insomnia and anxiety it is the oil of choice. 10 drops in a warm bath before bedtime induces a mellow, pleasantly drowsy feeling conducive to sleep. It can be blended with other soporific oils such as Marjoram, Camomile, Ylang Ylang or Vetiver for a similar sedative effect. Blended with Camomile, the two oils  increase each others anti-inflammatory properties on a synergistic level as well as each increasing the calming effect of the other.

Used as a cool poultice, Lavender is a soothing treatment for sunburn. This oil promotes healing and helps to prevent scarring; it stimulates the immune system and wound cells to heal quickly. This healing quality makes it a good treatment for bruises as well.

Contraindications-none in particular.

Blends well with most other oils.