Essential Oil Spotlight : Lavender

LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL

 

Family Name: Lamiaceae

Common Name: True Lavender

Botanical Name: Lavandula angustifolia; Lavandula officinalis 

Extraction method: Steam distillation from fresh flowering plant parts, from cultivated or wild harvested plants.

Odour: 'Sweet, floral-herbaceous scent'.

General Description:
Lavender is a hardy fragrant shrub, growing to a height of one metre with narrow leaves and grey-blue flowers on slender stalks. Indigenous to the mountainous areas of Mediterranean Europe, the plant is now cultivated the world over, growing best on poor, well-drained soils. The major producers of the essential oil are Bulgaria, France, Croatia, Russia, Australia and others.

History/Folk lore:
One of the most popular oils used in aromatherapy and for healing since time immemorial. For centuries, Lavender bags were placed in linen drawers to keep moths and insects at bay; its insecticidal properties being pronounced. Also revered for its antiseptic quality by the Romans who used it to bathe and cleanse their wounds and indeed the Latin `lavare' means to 'wash'.

It's wonderful skin-healing properties were discovered accidentally by the French chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse early in the twentieth century. It was Rene-Maurice Gattefosse's observation of the dramatic healing effect of Lavender oil when he burnt his hand in a laboratory accident that led him to research essential oils in greater depth, and eventually to coin the word 'aromatherapie'. 

'Dr Jean Valnet used Lavender oil to treat serious burns and war injuries when he was a French army surgeon.' Patricia Davis — "Aromatherapy — An A to Z"  

Lavandins, the hybrids between Spike and True Lavender, are often sold as True Lavender, but their composition can vary widely. Lavandin 'super acetate' is the hybrid closest to the makeup of True Lavender and the same applications apply. 
 
Main Uses In Massage: 

L. angustifolia has so many uses that it is almost indispensable to an aromatherapist. It is also so mild that it can be used safely with anyone and used in high concentrations. It is best known as a sedative, and many studies confirm this property.  

The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of lavender are well known and have also been thoroughly researched, and there is some evidence to suggest that it may also be a mild local anaesthetic. This makes the essential oils a good addition to a blend for any kind of pain, including headaches, arthritis, or overworked muscles. Its anti-inflammatory effect also indicates its use in soothing allergic reactions, whether respiratory or dermal.

 Therapeutic Properties or Actions: 
Analgesic, anticonvulsive, antidepressant, antiphlogistic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericide, carminative, cholagogue, cicatrisant, cytophylactic, decongestant, deodorant, diuretic, emmenagogue, fungicide, hypotensive, restorative, sedative.

Body Systems & Therapeutic Uses: 
 Integumentary system - Commonly associated with burns and healing of the skin. Has antiseptic, analgesic and cytophylactic properties which will ease the pain of a burn, prevent infection and promote rapid healing. Beneficial for conditions involving inflammation such as acne, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, boils and wounds.
 Nervous system - Lavender can exert a sedative or stimulant action depending on one's actual needs. Will act as a sedative in conditions of mental and emotional agitation and unrest, calming the mind.
Skin Care -  Antiseptic, antiphlogistic and cicatrisant properties of lavender make it a beneficial in many skin care preparations. Can be used for all skin types. Can be used as an insect repellent and may also be used to treat insect bites.
  Respiratory system - Lavender is recommended for the treatment of colds and 'flu, bronchitis, throat infections and catarrhal conditions.
Energetics - Lavender oil is cooling — may be used to clear heat, resolve fever, calm the spirit and relieve irritability.  

Precautions:
None at usual doses.
Can be stupefying to those with low blood pressure.
 
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 I will be posting more information about other essential oils on this blog so keep checking back.

< Related articles - clary sage , eucalyptus ,  frankincense , geranium & ginger > 

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Historical Information About Lavender

Lavender has been widely used for over 2,500 years. The Romans scented their public bathhouses with it and the ancient Egyptians included it in mummification. 

In Medieval and Renaissance Europe washerwomen were known as lavenders because they spread their laundry over lavender bushes to dry. Lavender has historically been promoted for its soothing, relaxing qualities and has been used to treat hyperactivity, insomnia, headaches, and sore joints. 

Also used to help ward off diseases such as the plague and cholera. Lavender is believed to act as a mild sedative and has been used to treat burns, bruises and insect bites. 

It has long been considered a herb of love. Cleopatra was said to have used Lavender to seduce Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.

 

The Difference between Lavenders ~

- Lavender Sweet has a soft, gentle scent,ideal for using in cleaning products, laundry and skin care. It can still be utilised to assist the skin's natural healing and regeneration processes, to promote relaxation, calm and balance.
 
- Lavender True  is utilised in Skin Healing to assist the skin's natural healing and regeneration processes, especially when blistered or scalded. Lavender True  is very calming and may help to ease painful nerve activity. Use to promote sleep & calm and helps to counter restlessness and sleeplessness. Use to counter the affects of shock. Can be used to aid healing when skin is bruised and damaged.

- Lavender Spike is reported to have antispasmodic properties that may be useful against irritating coughs, it blends well with other respiratory essential oils. Can be used to promote clear sinuses in babies and has a gentle penetrating aroma that encourages deep healthy breathing. It offers cleansing and expectorant properties to support natural recovery from respiratory illness and is ideal for young children and elderly. Has reported analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties a useful addition to massage blends for treating painful body conditions and injury.

SHOP FOR LAVENDER PRODUCTS >
 

Soothing Bath Salts - Recipe

Lavender is a natural pain reliever with relaxing analgesic properties, while geranium and orange reduce swelling and help the body unwind. The clay with enhance the healing properties whilst the Epsom salt and magnesium chloride helps with aching muscles. The Himalayan salt helps to detoxify the skin and body. Baking soda helps soften the water and alleviate skin irritation.

Ingredients :

• 1/2 cup Epsom salts or magnesium chloride flakes [shop online]
• 1/2 cup Himalayan salt coarse granules [shop online]
• 1/4 cup baking soda (optional)
• 1 teaspoons green clay (optional) [shop online]
• 20 drops orange essential oil [shop online]
• 10 drops geranium essential oil [shop online]
• 10 drops lavender essential oil [shop online]
• 1/4 cup dried lavender petals (optional) [shop online]
• 2-3 drops natural food colouring (optional)

Method:

1. Combine the salts, clay and baking soda.
2. Add the essential oils drop by drop, stirring until well mixed. You can add the natural food colouring now also if you wish to have coloured salt like pictured below.
3. Add the flower petals now and stir through or they can be added in layers in the jar.
4. Transfer to an airtight jar and leave for a week before using.
5. Add 1-2 tablespoons to a basin of warm water.
   
   
   
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   Ancient Minerals - Transdermal Magnesium Therapy ~
   

20 Uses For Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender Essential Oil Uses

1. Aching Muscles
   If you’ve spent a back-breaking afternoon in the garden, jump into a lavender bath to soothe aches & pains away. Apply Epsom salts & a few drops of Lavender Oil to the bath and soak away the tension.
   
2. Acne
   Lavender is one of the most valuable oils for the treatment of acne, according to aromatherapists. “It inhibits the bacteria that cause the skin infection, helps to re-balance the over-secretion of sebum, which the bacteria thrive on, and reduce scarring”. Add a few drops of lavender oil to a plain cream sold by chemists and use as a moisturizer or cleanser.
   
3. Bugs & Bacteria
   French laboratory studies in the early 20th century showed that lavender is a powerful antibacterial in dilutions of 5 per cent or less it is lethal to bacteria that cause typhoid, TB & diphtheria. Combined with Lemon Balm, for its clinically tested anti-viral properties.
4. Burns (minor)
   After you have cooled the area by immersing it in running cold water for 5 minutes, gently stroke on neat lavender oil. Pain relief is almost immediate, and burn usually heals without scarring.
5. Cuts & Wounds
   Apply lavender oil to sooth pain, prevent bacterial infection and aid scar-free healing. Apply neat.
   
6. Earache
   Warm a bottle of lavender oil in hot water for a minute or two, then gently massage a few drops into the skin around the ears and throat. For babies & small children, add 2-3 drops of the warmed oil to a little olive oil and massage in the same way.
7. Eczema
   Stroke infused lavender oil (a few drops of lavender oil & carrier oil) into dry, itchy skin—small children will find this especially comforting or add a few drops of lavender oil to calamine lotion, shake before use.
8. Fatigue
   Add 5 drops of lavender oil to a hot foot bath and relax while your feet soak in it. The soles of the feet are particularly porous, so lavender reaches your bloodstream very quickly, exerting its stimulating and soothing effects on various systems of your body.
9. Fevers
   For babies or small children, sponge them down very gently with tepid water to which you have added a drop of lavender oil. Take care not to let them get chilled. This works for adults too.
10. Giddy Spells, Faintness or Palpitations
    Make your own smelling salts—sea salt , lavender oil, peppermint oil & basil oil.
11. Headache
    The distilled water of Lavender (Hydrosol) Mist around your head, is refreshing and soothing. Alternatively, make a compress of a piece of cause or muslin soaked in icy cold water then sprinkled with a few drops of lavender oil and apply to the forehead, or massage a few drops into the forehead, temples and nape of the neck.
12. Insomnia
    In a number of small studies, elderly psychiatric patients have been shown to sleep better and be more alert during the day when their sleep medication is replaced with lavender oil either dropped on their pillows, or placed in a diffuser on the ward. To help to induce sleep, put 3 or 4 drops of lavender oil on your pillow. For babies, add 1 drop of lavender oil & geranium oil in carrier oil and massage into a babies back or a few drops in their bedtime bath.
13. Long-Haul Travel
    Combine lavender, rosemary, Neroli, frankincense & clary sage, into your hand luggage and roll it over your pulse points to help you keep a clear head during those endless hours in the air.
14. Menstrual Cramps
    Massage a few drops of lavender oil into your lower abdomen or apply a hot compress onto the area, which a little lavender oil has been sprinkled.
    
15. Moths & Mosquitos
    These annoying little insects all hate the smell of lavender. To prevent bites, splash yourself with lavender hydrosol before you go out at sunset or to bed, put 3-4 drops of oil on your pillow or soak cotton wool ball in the oil and leave it on a saucer in front of the window. Lavender oil is also a terrific remedy for insect bites, soothing itching & inflammation: dab it on to them neat as soon as possible. To keep moths off your clothes, hand lavender bags on you coat hangers or keep them among your sweaters and refresh them with a drop or two of lavender oil from time to time.
16. Scabies
    This infestation by a tiny mite burrowing into your skin causes intense itching. Rub the whole body with neat lavender oil, then following every day until better with a mixture of lavender oil and alcohol. Change and wash bedding and clothes and sprinkle lavender oil on the mattress.
17. Shingles
    Combine a mix of lavender oil with, analgesic, antiviral & scar preventing essential oils neat or on compresses on the agonizing lesions of shingles. It usually produces a cure within 5-8 days.
18. Sinusitis
    Lavender is one of several essential oils that aromatherapists recommend for inhalations to relieve sinusitis, add two drops of lavender & thyme oil to a bowl of near-steaming water and inhale slowly and deeply, with a towel over your head & bowl.
19. Stress & Anxiety
    Keep a spritzer of Lavender Mist - Hydrosol handy to spray on your face during the day, or apply lavender oil neat to your temples.
20. Sunburn
    Spray pure Lavender Mist – Hydrosol directly onto the skin or Add 8 drops of lavender oil and 4 drops of peppermint oil to a teaspoon of jojoba oil. Pour it into a cool-to-lukewarm bath and soak for 10 minutes.

Essential Oil & Epsom Salt Bath Bombs

I love a bath at night time to help me unwind. I have also been reading lately about the health benefits of having Epson salt baths to ease pain and inflammation, help with stress and tension, detoxification and to also to aid digestion. Epsom salt can also assist in blood circulation, aid in wound healing, remove foot odour, soften your skin and increase your strength and stamina. (read more)
I thought this would also be a fun way for my son to receive the benefits of magnesium sulfate & lavender essential oil and help him relax before bedtime. It can sometimes be difficult to encourage him to take a bath ;)



Here is the recipe for some lavender & rosemary bath bombs I made. I used lavender essential oil in these and also added some lavender and rosemary leaves from my garden for a more rustic look. I did use some natural food colouring to make the pale purple colour but this is not necessary. ( Note that there is a water bottle in the photo below because originally I was going to use a different method with witch hazel instead of vegetable oil and forgot to take it out of the photo. )


Recipe:

•      Baking soda
•     Citric acid powder
•     Epsom salt (Magnesium sulfate)
•    Water
•     Vegetable Oil (I used extra virgin olive oil in mine)
•   Essential oils ( I used Lavender in mine)

Optional:

•     Food colouring (natural is best)
•     Dried herbs or flowers 

 Other Equipment:

    • a whisk (or you could use a fork)
    • two small mixing bowls (preferably glass due to use of essential oils)
    • a big mixing bowl (also glass)
    • a measuring cup and measuring spoons
    • plastic or silicon moulds to shape the bombs



[ Step One ]

Mix the dry ingredients according to this ratio: two parts baking soda, one part citric acid powder, one part Epsom salt. (I used two cups of baking soda; one cup of citric acid; and one cup of Epsom salt.)

 [ Step Two ]

In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients together. I used about 3-4 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 2-3 teaspoons of essential oil and 1 teaspoon of water. Be careful not to add too much water or your bath bomb will fizz away before it’s even fully formed.

[ Step Three ]

Using a whisk or fork, slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry mix, one teaspoon at a time. If you pour too much in too quickly, it will start fizzing. If your mixture starts to fizz, add dry ingredients to the fizzing parts to stop the chemical reaction. You could also add a few drops of your food colouring at this point, whisking all the while. Blend everything really well. I used my hands in the end to mix. Your finished mixture should have the consistency of slightly damp sand and should squish in your hands without crumbling (if it doesn’t, add more wet or dry ingredients as needed).  Be careful not to add too much wet ingredients as they will puff and foam up when you put them into the moulds. They should be dryish but still stick together (you will know when it's not right believe me ). If you do add too much wet ingredients you can just add some more dry to make it the right consistency.

[ Step Four ]

Now for the moulds! Grease the insides of your moulds with a single drop of vegetable oil. You won't need to grease them if they are silicon. I actually sprinkled my silicon moulds with some baking soda. I placed some rosemary and lavender leaves and flowers in the bottom on my moulds. Then fill your moulds with the damp sandy mixture. Really pack the stuff in and squish it down. If it is the right consistency and not too wet it won't puff up. If it does seem to puff up put it back into the bowl and add more dry ingredients.



If you don't have moulds you can roll the mixture in your hands to make rustic ball shaped bombs. I made some using the moulds and the rest I rolled into balls.



[ Step Five ]

Take the bath bombs out of the moulds by flipping the molds over and lightly squeezing their sides. If you used silicon moulds without oil to grease you can leave them in and wait for them to dry more.



[ Step Six ]

If you used plastic moulds and greased them with oil then you don’t want these to fizz out at this point, so lightly tap them with a paper towel to soak up some of the dampness, then let them dry out for a while. I rolled mine in some Epsom salt to give it a crystalised look on the outside & to help dry them out more. I then put mine into airtight glass jars. I found that you could still probably use them within a couple of hours but it is probably best still to let them dry out more.

Play around with them. You could add rose petals, glitter or other essential oils for something different.

Thanks hope you enjoyed this post!