Lavender oil is created from the distillation of the flower spikes of the lavender plant, which can be found all over the world, commercially grown or in private herb gardens. This oil produces a floral scent which some think is overpowering while others may feel a sense of nostalgia. I, myself, remember the scent fondly from older women in my family wearing the scent as a perfume.
How to Use Lavender Essential Oil
This oil has a calming effect, aiding in relaxation and in the reduction of anxiety. You can also use it to help relieve tension headaches (though not migraines) by breathing in the vapor through a humidifier (or a few drops placed in a steaming bowl of water) or rubbed on skin at pulse points with a cotton ball. Also, adding it a vaporizer (or steaming bowl of hot water), you can use it to treat coughs and respiratory infection.
Other uses include: Mosquito repellent , antiseptic, pain reliever for minor burns, insect bites and stings, sunburns, mixed massage oil to relieve joint and muscle pain, chest rub for asthmatic and bronchitic spasm, and head lice (use as hair rinse, use fine comb to eliminate nits).
Use Pure Essential Oils and Natural Carriers
In its pure form, lavender can be toxic in large, undiluted quantities and it can cause skin reactions, so make sure to always dilute with water or a carrier oil – and always test a patch of skin before using! My favorite carrier oil for lavender is almond oil. If you do not want an extra scent, I recommend using olive oil. Remember, always use natural carrier oils, I do not recommend vegetable oil or canola oil, these oils are processed and can go sour in a short amount of time.
Precautions to Take With Essential Oils
If you are pregnant or nursing, due to the lack of safety research and other reports of the oil’s toxins affecting the unborn fetus, I advise you to not use this oil at all. A study in 2005 by the Australian Infection Council by Heather MA Cavanagh and Jenny M Wilkinson indicated this is a very small possibility and if diluted thoroughly is safe, however I do not feel comfortable taking the chance on myself and my children and would never recommend something I wouldn’t use on myself during these times.
Recipes
Add 15-20 drops per 1 ounce of massage oil, this not only helps joint and muscle pain, but also stimulates your entire circulatory system
1 tsp per 7 ounces water with 1 oz vodka (or 90% isopropyl alcohol) for a linen and room spray (add a few drops of tea tree oil for disinfectant properties)
4-5 drops of oil mixed with a cup of milk, add to a bath for relaxation
Excellent tips, Melinda. I didn’t know we could use lavender oil as a mosquito repellent. I could use that here right now.. Thanks for sharing these.
you can say that alternative medicine is cheaper too and usually comes from natural sources -`;