Home | Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender essential oil - A multitude of uses

Lavender essential oil is one of the most popular and widely used of all the aromatherapy oils.  Not only does it have a lovely lavender fragrance, it has a wide range of therapeutic uses for physical and psychological conditions.  Lavender oil is a very useful part of a natural first aid kit, and is one of only a few pure essential oils that can be used neat on the skin.  It can be used undiluted to relieve the pain of insect bites and stings, as well as burns.  Lavender aromatherapy oil is also beneficial in treating spots, boils and blemishes.  It can be used to soothe symptoms of an itchy scalp and dandruff.

Lavender essential oil has cytophylactic qualities, which means it has the ability to stimulate new cell growth and can be used to help heal cuts and wounds, as well as combating wrinkles.  An aromatherapy diffuser can be used release the powerful aroma molecules, so they can be inhaled into the body.  Lavender can be effective in aiding relaxation, relieving hypertension and migraines, and treating insomnia.  This pure essential oil also has antiseptic, antibacterial and antidepressant properties.  It's often used in aromatherapy candle products for it's detoxifying and calming fragrance.

Lavender is a favorite ingredient in aromatherapy massage oils, which can be used to ease menstrual pain, cramps and digestive disorders.  There are several species of lavender plants from which therapeutic essential oils can be extracted, so aromatherapists identify them by their Latin name.  Lavandula officinalis is the most commonly available oil.  Spike lavender or lavandula latifolia is another variety, which has a more stimulating aroma that's particularly effective for treating respiratory conditions.  Lavender aromatherapy oils may cause an allergic reaction in some people, especially those who suffer from hay fever.  It should also be avoided in the early stages of pregnancy or where there's a history of miscarriage.

About The Author:

Caroline Smith is a successful freelance writer and regular contributor to http://www.aromatherapy-essential-oils.ws - A comprehensive online guide to the uses of aromatherapy and essential oils.