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Lavender - Essential Oil of the Month June 2003 |
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| Properties |
| Latin Name |
Lavendula Officinalis |
| Plant Type |
Shrub |
| Part Used |
Flowers |
| Note |
Middle |
| Method of Extraction |
Distillation |
| Yin or Yang |
Yin |
| Aroma |
Herbaceous, fresh, slightly floral |
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Lavender is probably the most widely used and best-known essential oil in the world. There are many different types of Lavender which grows wild across the Mediterranean. With long stems, the tiny purple flowers are covered with minute star shaped hairs and narrow leaves that are greeny grey in colour. The largest producers of Lavender are England, France and Croatia.
Lavender has been used for its therapeutic benefits for centuries. It is known that the Romans used to bathe and cleanse their wounds. The Victorians would sew lavender into cloth bags and place it in their linen drawers to keep away moths. During the Elizabethan and Stuart era, Lavender water was a popular perfume and was said to be the favourite of Queen Maria Henrietta who was the wife of king Charles 1st. Lavender also lends an interesting twist to some French and Moroccan dishes.
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AVOID DURING PREGNANCY. DO NOT USE IF YOU SUFFER FROM LOW BLOOD PRESSURE
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- Mind
Lavender is said to calm and soothe both the mind and the temper. For this reason it may be useful in the treatment of depressive disorders. Lavender is also a widely used for Insomnia. It is particularly good to place a tissue that has been sprinkled with Lavender under your pillow or to use it in an oil burner 15 minutes before you go to bed.
- Body
- Circulation - It is thought to lower blood pressure and can be useful in the treatment of Palpitations and Panic Attacks.
- Digestive - Lavender has a calming effect on the digestive system and can be used to combat nausea, dyspepsia and flatulence. It is also said to an effective breath freshener.
- Muscle - When used in a massage blend, Lavender can bring welcome relief to muscular aches and pains.
- Nervous System - Lavender is thought to have anti-depressant properties making it invaluable in treating depression and stress related disorders. It is also thought to be useful in relieving headaches and migraines.
- Reproductive - Lavender is thought to what medically is known as an emmenagogue. In English this means that it brings on periods, which is why it must NOT be used during pregnancy. Rubbed into the stomach it can bring relief to mild period pains.
- Respiratory - Lavender is believed to be useful for Asthma, Bronchitis and relieves sinus problems. Also useful for throat infections.
- Skin - Here is where Lavender is reputed to really come into it's own! Lavender has antiseptic properties and is useful for relieving insect bites and also reduces inflammation. If used undiluted it is also invaluable in treating minor burns. If using for this purpose, do not think that it is a substitute for cold water. Run your burn under the cold tap for at least 10 minutes before applying Lavender. I find that this takes away some of the pain, aids healing and reduces the chance of blistering. Lavender is fantastic for all types of skin disorders including acne, dermatitis and psoriasis. Great for sunburn when mixed into aloe gel.
- Urinary - As Lavender is thought to be a diuretic, it is good for treating Cystitis.
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Blends well with most oils especially Tea Tree, Rosemary and all citrus oils.
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I have provided this information as a source of reference.
I cannot be held responsible for misadventure from the misuse of essential oils or any therapeutic method mentioned within this Website. If there is any doubt regarding any treatments or oils mentioned, then please consult a qualified Holistic Therapist or your Doctor.
All information belongs to Bonnie Lloyd Holistics. No information may be republished by any means without express premission.
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