Lavender is often called ‘the grandmother’ of essential oils because it nurtures us through a multitude of physical and emotional stresses. When in doubt – try Lavender.
Therapeutic Properties: antiseptic, diuretic, expectorant, emmenagogue, anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory, sedative, nervine, cytophylactic and anti-spasmodic
Physical: On the physical level Lavender is the first choice for many to help promote restful sleep (insomnia). Just place about a dime size amount of carrier oil ( almond, coconut, vegetable or olive oil to name a few)in the palm of your hand, add a drop or two of Lavender essential oil (be sure to use a 100% pure therapeutic grade quality – which contains all of the components of the plant) and spread over your forehead and temple area, under your nose, on your chest, feet, drop a drop on your pillow or on your wrist where you can raise your hand up and smell it. Be careful not to lather up too much (Lavender is calming in small amounts, but could be stimulating if used in too large a quantity or too often. This is especially true with babies and small children.)
Use Lavender to help reduce pain; a study (reported on the university of Maryland medical center site) stated; “lavender oil may improve pain control after surgery. Fifty patients undergoing breast biopsy surgery received either oxygen supplemented with lavender oil or oxygen alone. Patients in the lavender group reported better pain control than patients in the control group.”
Because 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Lavender has mild diuretic properties; it can be useful in alleviating premenstrual water retention and edema. Just dilute and rub on the area of concern.
Whether the problem is physical or emotional, Lavender is often effective in stabilizing both high and low pressure and regulating pulse (I would dilute and rub over my heart, smell or put on the bottoms of my feet.)
Headaches and migraines have been helped with Lavender. Lavender has been known to improve concentration.
Lavender is sometimes all that is needed to alleviate nausea. Just smell it.
Skin conditions: Try it for; cuts, sunburns, burns, rashes, dermatitis, athlete’s foot, psoriasis, lice, shingles, scabies, stretch marks, acne, hives, thrush, dermatitis, abscesses, wounds, fungal infections, eczema, insect bites and scaring (Consistent use with injuries may reduce scaring.)
Excessive use: Because Lavender is one of the milder oils, it is not uncommon to use it undiluted (NEAT). However, using large undiluted amounts too often could cause a sensitivity to Lavender (or any oil for that matter). It is best to dilute or consider gloving up if you are a massage therapist or using it NEAT (undiluted) to apply to others on a regular basis.
Muscles, circulation and joints: Lavenders antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, cytophylactic and antispasmodic properties make it effective for muscle strains and cramps, aches and pains, to relax tight muscles and joint pain.
Emotional/Spiritual Aspects: Lavender brings feelings of total and unchanging support around us, leaving no room for doubt that we are supported in life’s challenges and in the process of healing. Lavender promotes faith – even in hard times. It brings balance between feminine and masculine energy traits. As a gentle sedative and nervine Lavender can bring relief from stress, anxiety, panic, hysteria, emotional and mental fatigue.
Lavender is very soothing, uplifting and calming.
If you are wondering which oil to use for something, chances are good that Lavender would do the job. It works for so many things.
Happy oiling.