Lavender’s scientific name, Lavandula, is a genus of 39 known species of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. The Latin name of lavender is Lavare, which means “to wash”, due to its clean aroma. It is native to the Old World and is found from Cape Verde and the Canary Islands.  Although lavender can be used as is, its essential oil has become very popular and convenient.

Health BenefitsHere are some of the main health benefits of lavender:

Sleep:  Lavender is very relaxing and helps with insomnia.  Several studies have shown that lavender essential oil induces sleep. 

Nervous system: It is calming which makes it an excellent tonic for the nerves and helps anxiety and stress.  One study showed that people taking tests showed a significant decrease in mental stress and anxiety, as well as increased cognitive function when they inhaled lavender oil and rosemary oil before taking the exam!

Pain relief: Lavender essential oil is known as an excellent remedy for various types of pains. A massage with lavender oil can also provide relief from pain in the joints. A study done on post-operative pain relief showed that combining lavender essential oil vapor into the oxygen significantly reduced the amount of pain experienced, versus those patients only revived with oxygen after a major surgery.

Respiratory disorders: Lavender oil can be used for various respiratory problems, such as: throat infections, flu, cough, cold, asthma, sinus congestion, bronchitis,whooping cough, laryngitis, and tonsillitis.  It can be used in vapor form or applied on the neck, chest, or back.  It is said to help loosen up the phlegm and relieve the congestion. 

Blood circulation:  It is said to improve the circulation of the blood, and helps to lower blood pressure.  This increases the level of oxygenation to the organs, promotes muscle strength, and even brain activity has a noticeable boost.

Immunity:  The antibacterial and antiviral qualities of lavender help defend the body against disease and boosts its immunity.

Acne:  According to dermatologists and aromatherapists, lavender essential oil is one of the most beneficial oils in treating acne.  It inhibits the bacteria that cause the initial infection, helps to regulate some of the over-excretion of sebum by hormonal manipulation, and can reduce the signs of scarring after the acne has begun to heal. 

General Skin care: Lavender oil is great for the skin owing to its antiseptic and antifungal properties. It is used to treat many skin disorders such as acne, wrinkles, psoriasis, and other inflammatory conditions.  It also helps to speed up the healing process and can be used for cuts, burns, abrasions, and such.

Bug Repellent: It repells mosquitoes, midges, and moths. It also can reduce the irritation and the pain associated with bug bites.

I trust you have enjoyed this and make use of this wonderful healing plant.  At Herbs4You, we carry Lavender Essential Oil, and also dried lavender flowers.  They both smell great!

Check this out! Healthy Tidbit: Lavender Pillow

We’re here to help you!Amy Willis, Your Local Herbalist

June 13, 2016

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