Lavender essential oil is one of the most versatile essential oils available today and has been used for centuries as an easily accessible and affordable medical aid. It has also been used in aromatherapy and cooking. Some of the most common uses of lavender oil include the following.
As A Cleaner
Lavender oil may be used to clean surfaces, clothing and dishes without the addition of dangerous chemicals that are found in store bought cleaners. While it may seem that it is added to body care products and household cleaners only because of its pleasing scent, it also packs some pretty powerful disinfecting powers as well. When mixed with vinegar in a spray bottle, lavender essential oil serves a a cleaning and sanitizing liquid that can be used in bathrooms and kitchens on counter tops and sinks. The oil can be added to unscented natural laundry detergent to help disinfect and freshen clothing. When removing stains on clothing, such as paint or grease, a little lavender oil should do the trick. Dried flowers can also be stored in drawers or closets to help refresh any stale or sour odors.
As An Antioxidant
As the cells in the body process oxygen, they naturally produce free radicals. While they are necessary to help fight infections and bacteria in the body, they need to be regulated. If too many free radicals are left in the body, they can cause serious damage and are linked to heart disease, cancer and diabetes. They can also cause the body to prematurely age. The body needs antioxidants to rid itself of free radicals. Lavender essential oil can serve as an antioxidant. There are many essential oils that act as antioxidants. While lavender is not the most efficient out of al the oils, it still contains antioxidant properties that can be incredibly beneficial.
As A Medical Healer
Lavender essential oil has been used for centuries to treat a wide variety of medical conditions. When rubbed directly onto the temples, the oil can alleviate pain from a headache while the soothing scent helps to melt tension away. The scent of lavender has also shown to combat anxiety and stress that can cause damage to the body’s delicate system. Skin can benefit from the oil thanks to its antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. The oil can heal wounds and protect the body from infections. Lavender oil can be used in children under two to safely and naturally bring a fever down instead of relying on store bought medications that may not be safe for young children. However, always be sure to speak with your child’s doctor before using lavender oil.
Lavender essential oil can also be used to help stop pain associated with bee stings or other bug bites. It can be placed directly on the bite and should help to prevent swelling. Another great use of the oil is to stop a nosebleed. If a nosebleed has started, place some ice in a clean towel and add a drop or two of lavender oil. Then simply place the towel at the base of the nose with consistent but moderate pressure until the bleeding has stopped.
As A Natural Cosmetic
The toxins that are present in today’s beauty products have been receiving negative attention lately and for good reason. If you want to avoid dangerous chemicals in perfume, you can simply rub the oil sparingly directly onto the skin or mix it with water for a more subtle fragrance. Lavender oil can also be a great natural alternative to lip balm. By mixing the oil with a little Shea butter, it can be directly rubbed onto the lips to protect them from the sun and keep them moisturized. The oil also has the ability to eliminate or smooth wrinkles and can also help stop hair loss and regrow hair. It is also a natural lice eliminator and can help sooth symptoms of dandruff. By placing the oil on the skin, it can help to regulate the body’s natural production of sebum, which is nature’s moisturizer. It can therefore help to moisturize dry skin or help rid the body of excess oil.
As A Cooking Agent
Lavender oil is a common ingredient in French recipes but has recently started to show up in a wide range of dishes. The oil can be directly added to lemonade or tea for a refreshing and soothing drink. Lavender is completely edible and can be added to any recipe for a little boost in flavor. It should be used sparingly though because the flavor can be quite strong. It will usually pair nicely with cranberries, balsamic vinaigrette, apples or honey. While the oil is safe to consume in small amounts, it should never be directly consumed. It should also never be consumed by small children.
As An Aromatherapy Staple
Lavender essential oil can be used to instantly calm the senses when the body is found in a high-stressful situations. If someone suffers from anxiety in public places, such as a crowded airplane or busy store, the oil can be briefly inhaled for an instant calming sensation. To achieve a higher sense of calmness, the oil can be rubbed on the bottoms of the feet and insides of the wrists. With the oil on the wrists, a quick breath can be taken to keep the calming aroma present. It may also help with motion sickness. Put one single drop on the tip of the tongue, behind each ear or around the belly button to experience fast relief.
Lavender oil is also a great sleep remedy. It has been proven to help individuals suffering from insomnia. The oil can either be directly inhaled before sleeping or sprayed onto pillowcases and sheets. With the oil’s aroma, sleep should not only come easier but should also be of a higher quality. This eliminates stress and anxiety, resulting in a higher quality of life.
Thanks to all of lavender’s uses, it is a great item to keep readily available at all times.