Latin Name: Lavendula officinalis
Description
One of the most memorable moments in Aromatherapy's history would be in 1928, when the French chemist Rene-Maurice Grattefosse gave this healing art and science a name. After burning his hand severely, he placed it in essential oil of lavender -- the closest thing to him. He found that his wound healed quickly without scarring and decided to study these oils.
Grattefosse found that natural essences worked more effectively than their synthetic counterparts. He also discovered that essential oils had better antiseptic properties than some of the antiseptics that were currently being used in his time.
North African women used lavender to protect themselves against mistreatment from their husbands. Greeks and Romans burned lavender as an incense offering to the Gods. Ancient Druids carried lavender with them to help them see ghosts.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Although the smell and looks of lavender is very common to most people, the beneficial effects of the essential oils are not as commonly known. Some believe that every home should have a bottle of lavender at hand. It is a very safe oil and is appropriate for use on small children.
Lavender has a score of 'first aid' uses, including burns, minor abrasions, and various types of skin problems. One of the best uses for lavender is for the treatment of burns and cuts. It has powerful antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. When applied topically to the skin, lavender encourages the wound cells to regenerate and heal more quickly. By speeding up the keratinization cells, lavender helps prevent the formation of unsightly scars. As such, lavender has been called a "first aid kit in a bottle". Add it to sore muscle blends. Put it in the bath for relaxation. Scent bed linens with it for a peaceful night's sleep.
Lavender is ideal for use on oily and blemished skin and has mild antiseptic propertes. Its analgesic properties make it useful for treating pain and congestion caused by stifling sinuses, headaches and stiff muscles.
Lavender is effective at killing Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria. Lavender essential oil is composed mainly of terpene alcohols and esters. The essential oil is a natural antiseptic, antidepressant and sedative.
The Lancet reported that elderly patients who required substantial doses of sleeping pills slept "like babies" when lavender aroma was released into their rooms. Scientists are looking into linalyl acetate, one of the main components in lavender, as it has a calming effect on the central nervous system.
Mice made hyperexcitable by large amount of caffeine were calmed by fragrances of lavender, sandalwood and other oils that were sprayed into their cages.
A study of 122 patients in intensive care felt much better when they were given lavender oil than when they simply rested or had a massage.
Preparations
Add six drops of essential oil to a bath for relaxation.
Add 5 drops to 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil and massage into temples for a headache, sinuses for congestion or into muscles for pain.
Apply pure to cuts, scrapes and burns up to six times a day.
For use as a mouthwash, add one drop to 8oz of water (do not swallow the mixture).
Place 3 to 4 drops on a tissue and inhale for five to ten minutes to encourage relaxation, induce sleep, or reduce depression.
Apply one drop to a pimple to help it heal.
Ailment / Situation Listing
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