Did you know that the name of the lavender plant comes from the Latin word lavare, meaning “to wash”? Since ancient times, lavender flowers and oil have been used in wash water and in baths, and the plant has been utilised for its soothing properties. Lavender has been used to both relieve pain and cleanse wounds, and its distinctive fragrance only adds to its holistic properties. Today, lavender oil is typically produced by steam distillation, and it is a mainstay of aromatherapy, cosmetics, and natural medicine.
There are many varieties of lavender, each with a different composition and scent. Note, however, that as with any essential oil, lavender oil should be diluted with a carrier oil (such as coconut, jojoba or almond oil) before applying it to your skin, to avoid irritation. A safe ratio is three to four drops of lavender oil for every tablespoon of carrier oil.
1. To promote sleep
Lavender oil has an instant calming effect on the nervous system thanks to unique compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which, when they reach neurotransmitters, promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. These natural molecules contribute to lavender’s ability to provide relief with its sedative and anxiolytic effects. Simply mix five to six drops with water in a spray bottle and mist your pillow and sheets before going to bed, or apply two drops directly to each side of your pillow.
2. In an aromatic bath
Relax your muscles (and mind) by adding 10 to 15 drops of lavender oil to your bath, and give yourself 20 minutes of pure relaxation (don’t overdo it though –a hot bath longer than half an hour can irritate your skin). If you like, add Epsom salts to help further relax muscles and reduce inflammation. If you don’t have a bathtub, a few drops of essential oil on the floor of your shower can create a spa-like, pampering scent.
3. To reduce anxiety and stress
Looking to relax and improve your concentration? When lavender oil is diffused in a room, its pleasant scent will improve your mood and make you feel more alert. Try using it while studying, working or doing yoga. Pour six to seven drops of lavender essential oil into a bowl filled with water and place it near or on top of your radiator, or add the oil to a potpourri of dried flowers. Alternatively, you can use an essential oil diffuser.
4. To create customised fragrances
Lavender, with its fresh, herbaceous aroma, is frequently used ingredients in perfumes (it is an essential component of the fougère family of fragrances). Dilute it in a carrier oil (such as jojoba or sweet almond), then apply it on your wrists or behind your ears. It will perfume your skin in a unique way and provide you with a sense of serenity throughout the day.
5. As a DIY toner
If you have sensitive skin, you could use lavender oil to create a personalised toner: lavender helps rebalance your pH and create a protective, non-irritating barrier. Add two drops to a base of one teaspoon rosewater or distilled water (mix everything in a small cup to ensure the proportions are correct), then apply the toner to your face with cotton pads.
6. For healthier hair
If you have dandruff or dull hair, lavender oil should become your new best friend. Just add seven to eight drops to a glass of water (all the better if you can then pour it into a spray bottle), and rinse or spritz the solution onto your hair after washing it (to assure it is applied evenly on your scalp, lift your hair and spray directly on the roots). Massage for a minute then let it dry, and admire the results.
7. To combat headaches
Lavender oil provides powerful relief from headaches. The same molecules that stimulate a feeling of calm and relaxation can also reduce headache pain. A couple of drops (diluted with a carrier oil or in water, as always), massaged into the temples or placed directly on a handkerchief and inhaled can relieve tension and stress headaches.
9. To treat acne
Lavender oil has bactericidal and fungicidal properties. If you suffer from acne, add one drop of lavender essential oil to your night cream. The essential oil will regulate excess sebum and combat bacteria that cause breakouts –often more effectively than a scrub.
10. For minor skin irritations
Lavender can be used for many different skin problems, scratches, insect bites and even minor burns. Apply one or two drops of essential oil diluted in water on the area to be treated, the relief is often immediate.
11. To ease muscle pain
Lavender essential oil is a natural ally against muscle discomfort due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It is particularly useful for back pain, stiff neck, tension from muscle fatigue, headaches, and rheumatic complaints. For a relaxing effect, you can dilute a few drops of it in a neutral vegetable oil –sweet almond oil is ideal as it is a smooth and very gentle oil – and use the results to massage the area that is injured or tense. Another effective alternative is to make a compress: pour 10 drops of oil into a bowl of warm water, submerge a clean washcloth, wring it out slightly, and apply it to the area to be treated until it cools down. It’s a simple trick that can provide enormous relief.
