Lavender is more than just an aromatic flower; its natural compounds are packed with beneficial properties that can treat various health conditions.
Before applying lavender essential oil directly onto the skin or inhaling it, it is wise to first dilute it with a carrier oil to minimize potential skin reactions.
1. Calming
Lavender can help provide a sense of wellness to both mind and body by inducing relaxation and decreasing anxiety or insomnia symptoms. Aromatherapy with lavender may even reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels – all essential tools in combatting stress and depression.
Soothing properties of lavender may help relieve symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome, such as hot flashes. Furthermore, its antinausea effect can ease headaches by alleviating nausea.
Lavender can be found as an essential oil, supplement and tea. However, not all lavender products are created equal and some may cause skin sensitivities or be too strong for certain conditions. When taking lavender supplements as medication or supplements you should check with a physician first so as not to interfere with any current medications/supplements you are currently taking.
2. Anti-inflammatory
Lavender is an effective anti-inflammatory that can be applied topically to help relieve sunburns and insect bites, and soothe conditions like rashes, acne, or eczema.
Aromatherapy with lavender oil has been demonstrated to decrease cortisol, or stress hormone in the body, helping alleviate anxiety and depression. Massaging lavender oil onto temples or inhaling its fragrance has even proven successful at relieving headaches and migraines.
Lavender can be used as an effective natural antifungal, helping treat athlete’s foot and ringworm. Before applying it directly to the scalp, be sure to dilute its oil with carrier oil first as this may interfere with anesthesia treatments. However, those scheduled for surgery should refrain from using lavender due to its effect on nerve endings which could interfere with anesthetics used during surgery.
3. Antiseptic
Lavender is known to be antifungal and antibacterial, making it a great natural way to keep skin healthy. Lavender also kills any bacteria that could potentially lead to fungal infections like candida.
Add lavender oil to a diffuser or use several drops directly on your skin, using shea butter, jojoba oil or coconut oil as a diluting agent – otherwise the essential oil may irritate it!
Drink a tea made with lavender flowers or consume lavender honey as another option; just be mindful that the FDA doesn’t oversee these types of products like they would prescription medications. Stick with reliable brands when selecting teas, herbs or tinctures from stores like Whole Foods Market; pregnancy/breastfeeding women should avoid lavender; consult their physician if taking blood pressure medication before using it as well.
4. Diuretic
Lavender can be used to treat numerous ailments, from stress and anxiety to headaches. Lavender tea, tincture or oil can be taken orally and applied topically; for added effect it can also be inhaled in order to decrease anxiety and mood fluctuations.
Inhaling lavender may help improve sleep quality by increasing delta waves during slow-wave sleep and decreasing alpha waves associated with wakefulness. Massage with lavender oil may even ease menstrual cramps.
Lavender is known to possess antiseptic and expectorant properties, making it effective at relieving respiratory conditions like sinus congestion, cough, colds, asthma, as well as blended with other oils to treat skin conditions such as dermatitis and psoriasis. Furthermore, lavender can also be used as a hair rinse to address dandruff while supporting healthy, thick locks.
5. Immune system boost
Lavender’s anti-inflammatory and sedative properties help soothe nerves, thus improving immune system performance. Furthermore, lavender acts as an effective natural stress reliever that improves your mood while supporting sleep.
One study published by the International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology revealed that inhaling lavender oil significantly reduces anxiety and depression. Nurses and doctors now frequently utilize it as a mild anxiolytic before and after surgical procedures or chemotherapy treatments.
Apply a couple of drops on your neck and temples or diffuse it throughout your working environment to reduce stress. Or use it on palms for inhaling.
6. Pain relief
Add lavender to your massage oil or take a warm bath with it to ease menstrual cramps, arthritis and backaches. Inhaling its scent may even help prevent headaches and migraines.
Studies have demonstrated the efficacy of aromatherapy using lavender oil on women’s menstrual pain compared to receiving acetaminophen as part of an alternative therapy plan. Furthermore, a placebo-controlled trial concluded that manual acupressure with lavender essential oil reduced pain intensity from lower back injuries significantly.
According to a 2020 study, lavender can help ease anxiety levels before and during medical procedures. Patients who inhaled lavender prior and during an epidural steroid injection experienced less discomfort compared to those who used almond oil or water as inhalants.
7. Muscle relaxant
Lavender can be used topically to treat wounds, soothe aching muscles, speed healing after sunburns, relieve the itching and pain caused by spider bites, and help relieve stomach cramps. Lavender also serves as an anti-inflammatory remedy and can provide powerful support during times of inflammation – providing soothing benefits all round!
Lavender can boost cognitive function and mood in healthy individuals, but should not be seen as an alternative treatment option for anxiety disorders. Studies conducted using 80 mg of lavender oil daily has reduced depression and sleep disturbances for 47 patients suffering PTSD.
When using essential oils, always dilute them first to avoid skin irritation, and never apply an undiluted oil directly onto your skin. Diffusing lavender into the air through a diffuser and inhaling its soothing aroma can help relieve stress, relax muscles and even assist with insomnia.
8. Sleep aid
Lavender has long been recognized for its soothing properties and can help alleviate anxiety. Studies also demonstrate that inhaling lavender aromatherapy capsules or taking them internally may reduce stress-inducing anxiety levels.
Lavender has long been used as a pain reliever. One small study demonstrated how lavender aromatherapy reduced stress and depression among postpartum women for one hour; another study demonstrated how lavender essential oil relieved recurrent aphthous ulcers when applied directly to the skin.
Lavender is generally safe for consumption, though it’s wise to consult your healthcare provider prior to adding it into your health regimen. Lavender may interact with certain medications and can induce sleepiness when combined with certain sedatives.
