Ahhh, take a deep breath. Just about everyone loves the wonderful and calming scent of lavender – but what is lavender essential oil, and what exactly is it good for?
Lavender is not only a beautiful flower, but also a powerhouse essential oil. Though it has been a popular oil for centuries, many still may not know the amazing benefits and uses of lavender essential oil.
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into everything there is to know about lavender essential oil.
What is Lavender Essential Oil?
Lavender essential oil is extracted from the flowers of the lavender plant, a member of the mint family.
The plant is native to western Mediterranean countries, but it is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world, including Europe, Australia, and North America.
Typically, the oil is extracted through steam distillation, where the flowers are exposed to steam, and the essential oil is then captured in a condenser. The resulting oil has a pale yellow color and a fresh, floral scent that is both calming and uplifting.
Due to its therapeutic properties, this oil is popularly used in aromatherapy and natural skincare products.
Lavender essential oil truly is an all-purpose oil. From promoting relaxation to treating acne, it has numerous benefits that make it a must-have in your essential oil collection.
What Does Lavender Essential Oil Look and Smell Like?
If you have never smelled lavender essential oil before, imagine a blend of floral and herbal aromas with a hint of sweetness. Some people even describe it as slightly fruity or woody. The scent is not overpowering, but rather subtle and soothing.
When inhaled or applied topically, lavender essential oil can promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve mood. It is no wonder why it is often used in aromatherapy and meditation practices.
How to Choose and Use Lavender Essential Oil Safely
Lavender, like other essential oils, is not regulated by the FDA. Therefore, it’s important to be careful when you’re using it for the first time. You can check out our Essential Oils Guide for more information on how to do this!
Here are some more tips for using it safely:
- If you’re buying lavender essential oil rather than making your own, look for brands that use organic or wildcrafted lavender plants – avoid those with synthetic fragrances or extenders.
- Make sure the oil’s botanical name is Lavandula angustifolia.
- Always dilute the oil with a carrier oil before applying it to your skin, as it can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people.
- Do a patch test before using it, especially if you have sensitive skin or a history of allergies.
- Use it sparingly, as a little goes a long way. Start with 1-2 drops per application and increase as needed.
- Avoid using it on babies, young children, or pregnant women without consulting with a healthcare professional first.
- Keep the oil out of the reach of pets and children, as ingesting it can be toxic.
How is Lavender Essential Oil Used?
Lavender essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy for its calming and relaxing effects. Inhaling lavender oil can help alleviate stress and anxiety, promote better sleep, and improve mood. You can add a few drops of lavender essential oil to a diffuser and let the aroma fill the room.
Also, it contains compounds that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective natural remedy for pain relief. You can apply a few drops of lavender essential oil diluted in a carrier oil such as coconut oil or jojoba oil to the affected area to relieve muscle pain, headaches, menstrual cramps, or joint pain.
Lavender essential oil can also be used in various household products due to its antiseptic and insect-repellent properties. You can add a few drops of lavender essential oil to your laundry detergent, vacuum cleaner, or cleaning spray to freshen up your clothes and home while repelling insects such as mosquitoes and moths.
What Are the Touted Benefits of Lavender Essential Oils?
While it’s important to consult with a doctor before using any kind of essential oils, even for your health and beauty routine, know that lavender has many benefits that are praised by people around the world.
Here are some of the most common uses and benefits.
Lavender Oil Benefits for Hair
Lavender oil is a popular hair care ingredient that’s been used for centuries. It may help to promote healthy hair growth, reduce hair loss, and prevent dandruff and other scalp issues. Lavender oil contains antimicrobial properties that help eliminate bacteria and fungi, which can cause scalp infections and hair loss.
Add a few drops of lavender oil to your shampoo or conditioner, or mix it with a carrier oil like coconut oil. Massage the mixture into your scalp and hair, leave it on for a few minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. You can also spray a mix of water and lavender oil onto your hair as a leave-in conditioner.
Lavender Oil Benefits for Skin
If you’re looking for a natural way to improve your skin health, lavender oil is the way to go. Lavender oil may soothe and calm irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing. It also has the ability to eliminate bacteria that can cause acne and other skin infections.
To use lavender oil on your skin, mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil like jojoba oil. Apply the mixture to your skin and massage gently. You can also add a few drops of lavender oil to your bath water for a relaxing and skin-nourishing soak.
Lavender Oil for Sleep
One of the most popular benefits of lavender oil is its ability to promote restful sleep. Lavender oil contains compounds that can help soothe the mind and body and reduce anxiety and stress, making it the perfect addition to your bedtime routine.
A few hours before bedtime, diffuse lavender oil in your bedroom or add a few drops to a bowl of hot water to inhale before you sleep. You can also add lavender oil to a carrier oil and massage it onto your temples and neck, providing you with calm and peaceful sleep.
Lavender Oil for Anxiety
If you’re someone who struggles with anxiety and stress, lavender oil can help calm your mind and body. The soothing aroma of lavender oil has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and its relaxing properties may also help lower blood pressure and heart rate.
Inhale lavender oil directly from a bottle or diffuse it in your home or office. You can also add a few drops of lavender oil to your bathwater or apply it to your pulse points to promote relaxation.
Lavender Oil in the Kitchen
Lavender even has culinary uses! The flowers and oil are used to add flavor to dishes such as baked goods, honey, and tea. Lavender has a slightly sweet and floral flavor, making it perfect for use in many desserts and pastries. You can use dried lavender flowers or lavender oil in your cooking, but be sure to use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
What Are the Disadvantages of Lavender Essential Oil?
Lavender essential oil has often been called the “swiss army knife” of essential oils due to its wide range of applications. Many people use it for its calming effects, to help with sleep, anxiety, and headaches. However, while lavender oil can have many positive effects, it is not entirely risk-free.
For one, lavender oil can cause skin allergies in some people, especially those with sensitive skin. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include redness, itching, swelling, and even hives in some cases. Always test the oil on a small patch of skin before applying it to larger areas, and if any adverse reactions occur, discontinue use immediately.
Inhaling large quantities of lavender oil can cause respiratory issues, especially for those with asthma or other similar conditions. While it is generally safe to use the oil in a diffuser, caution should be taken in case of any adverse reactions.
If you are taking medication or supplements, you’ll want to speak with a healthcare provider before using lavender oil. The oil can interact with some medications, including anticoagulants and sedatives, among others. Lavender oil can also increase the potency of some medications, so it is essential to use it with caution.
Are There Any Substitutes for Lavender Essential Oil?
If you’re looking for a substitute for lavender essential oil, chamomile is a great alternative. It has a warm, herbaceous aroma that is known for its calming and relaxing properties. Chamomile essential oil is commonly used to soothe tension, stress, and irritability. It also helps promote better sleep and a positive mood.
Another option is bergamot. Bergamot essential oil is a citrusy oil that also has calming and relaxing properties like lavender. Its refreshing scent has an energizing effect on the mind and body, making it a great substitute for lavender essential oil. It has a reputation for being an effective mood booster, reducing anxiety symptoms, and improving sleep quality.
And finally, there’s patchouli. Patchouli essential oil is known for its earthy scent and grounding, calming effects. It’s an excellent substitute for lavender essential oil due to its reputation for reducing stress, anxiety, and nervous tension. It’s also used to promote relaxation and better sleep.
What is the Shelf Life of Lavender Essential Oil?
The shelf life of lavender essential oil can vary somewhat depending on a few factors:
- Quality: Higher-quality oils tend to last longer because they contain fewer impurities and are less likely to break down over time.
- Storage conditions: More on this later, but the way you store your lavender oil can impact its longevity.
- Age: As a general rule of thumb, the older your lavender oil is, the less potent it will be. This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s gone bad, but it may not be as effective as it once was.
So, how long can you expect your lavender essential oil to last? The answer isn’t cut and dry, but most sources agree that it’ll typically last between two to three years. Some oils may last longer, while others may start to degrade sooner.
How to Store Lavender Essential Oil
If you want to extend the shelf life of your lavender essential oil, proper storage is key. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Keep it cool: Heat can cause oils to break down and lose their potency, so aim to store your lavender oil in a cool, dark place. A cabinet or drawer away from direct sunlight is a good option.
- Use dark bottles: Many essential oils, lavender included, come in dark amber or blue glass bottles. This is because these colors help block out light, further protecting the oil from degradation. If your lavender oil came in a clear bottle, consider transferring it to a dark one.
- Put a lid on it: When not in use, make sure your lavender oil is tightly sealed. This will help prevent oxygen from getting in and causing the oil to oxidize.
Final Thoughts
Lavender essential oil is a must-have in any self-care kit. From its calming and antiseptic properties to its versatile uses, it truly is an all-around oil.
But it’s important to always use it safely – diluting it before applying topically, and consulting with a healthcare provider if you have any underlying health concerns.
Now that you know the ins and outs of lavender essential oil, it’s time to incorporate it into your daily routine for an added touch of serenity and tranquility.
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