Properties
analgesic, anticonvulsant, antiphlogistic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericide, carminative, cholagogue, decongestant, deodorant, diuretic, emmenagogue, fungicide, hypotensive, nervine, restorative, sedative, sudorific, vulnerary (Battaglia, 2003).
Please refer to the Glossary for terms which may be new to you.
Uses / Benefits
Most commonly used for relaxation and skin healing. Also used for respiratory infections, high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, muscle and joint pain, insomnia, nervous tension, menstrual imbalances, PMS, skin conditions (stretch marks, scarring, psoriasis, eczema, cellulite, acne), insect bites, burns, sunburn, hair loss, digestive complaints. It is truly the "oil of a thousand uses". Lavender is the most important essential oil I carry in my First Aid kit. A popular essential oil used in natural perfume making.
Fragrant influences
Improves concentration and mental clarity, calming, balancing (both physically and emotionally). Lavender essential oil is calming in small amounts and will stimulate the nervous system in higher concentrations.
Modes of Administration
Topical: massage, compress, skin care lotions, creams and ointments. Lavender is one of the few essential oils which are safe to use neat (full strength).
Inhalation: direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporizer, aromatherpay inhaler.
Blends well with
Anise, Bergamot, Black Pepper, Camphor, Cedarwood, Chamomile, Clary Sage, Clove, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Grapefruit, Juniper, Lemon, Lemongrass, Mandarin, Marjoram, Oakmoss, Orange, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Peppermint, Pine, Ravensara, Rose, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Thyme, Vetiver
Safety
Non-toxic, non-irritating, non-sensitizing (Battaglia, 2003). Lavender essential oil is one of the few essential oils which can safely be used full strength (neat) on the skin. Avoid if you have an estrogen-dependent cancer. May be deeply relaxing: avoid prior to activities that require concentration.
Notice
This information is for educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.
Precautions
Pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Do not use them undiluted, or in the eyes or mucus membranes. If applying an essential oil to the skin, always dilute it with a proper carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying to a large area. Do not take them internally except under the direction of a qualified professional trained in Aromatherapy. Always familiarize yourself with the safety, contraindications and proper preparation of each essential oil before use. Note that when using essential oils for children and the elderly, very low concentrations should be used. Keep all essential oils away from children and pets.
References
Althea Press, Essential Oils: Natural Remedies, 2015. Althea Press, Berkeley, CA.
Battaglia, Salvatore, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Second Edition, 2003. The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Brisbane, Australia
Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy: Soothing Remedies to Restore, Rejuvenate, and Heal, 2002. Prentice Hall Press, New York, NY.
Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy: A Holistic Guide to Natural Healing with Essential Oils, 2015. Floramed Publishing, The Woodlands, TX.
England, Allison, Aromatherapy for Mother and Baby, 1994. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.
Falconi, Dina, Earthly Bodies and Heavenly Hair: Natural and Healthy Personal Care for Every Body, 1998. Ceres Press, Woodstock, NY.
Green, Mindy, Natural Perfumes, 1999. Interweave Press, Loveland, CO.
Hampton, Aubrey, Natural and Organic Hair and Skin Care, 1987. Organica Press, Tampa, FL.
International Fragrance Research Association, http://www.ifraorg.org/en-us/standards (January 5, 2016)
Schnaubelt, Kurt, The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils: The Science of Aromatherapy, 2011. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.
Advanced Aromatherapy: The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, (English translation)1998. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.
Tourles, Stephanie L, Hands On Healing Remedies, 2012. Storey Publishing, North Adams, MA.
Worwood, Valerie Ann, The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy, 1991. New World Library, Novato, CA.
TIMELESS Essential Oils guarantees the purity and quality of all our therapeutic oils. The current Certificate of Analysis is available upon request. All essential oils are best stored in an airtight container away from heat and light.
