Hello, all my essential oil friends! Join me as I journal my experiences and insights about my favorite essential oil.
I LOVE LAVENDER! That is lavender essential oil - not the store fragrance kind.
Lavender in its purest form is an acquired smell. I still remember the moment that I first inhaled lavender essential oil. I was actually a little disappointed in the aroma, and it wasn't quite what I was expecting. I was new to aromatherapy at that time, and my nose was accustomed to strong, synthetic commercial fragrances. But it didn't take long for me to like, and then to absolutely love Lavender essential oil. So, remember, don't hastily dismiss lavender essential oil if you don't like it the moment that you take your first whiff.
I’ve had customers to be turned off from the aroma but was willing to try it for the beneficial properties it offers. Now they too love it! One particular friend said it smelled like vomit (if you are reading this you know who you are :), but now she can’t go without it and loves it!
Lavender essential oil has a beautiful, versatile aroma. Lavender Essential Oil smells floral, fresh, sweet, herbaceous and slightly fruity, and maybe camphor-like.
Lavender essential oil is one of those time-tested home remedies. Its health benefits read like a shopping list - it’s used as a sedative, anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antibacterial, anesthetic, immune boosting and antiviral, amongst others.
But here’s the interesting bit. Lavender’s many uses and health benefits are not just part of any old wives’ tale passed on by your grandmother - they are actually supported by thousands of published studies and hundreds of clinical trials.
And the ways you can use lavender oil are so wide-ranging, it’s no wonder that it is one of the most popular, versatile, effective, and my overall favorite essential oil.
One of my go-to uses for Lavender essential oil is in first aid.
Its anti-bacterial and calming properties make it perfect for minor cuts and scrapes, offering natural healing and pain relief. I’ve seen firsthand how it quickly soothes pain and accelerates healing. I personally grab the lavender when treating wounds, cuts, or scrapes instead of pharmaceutical antibacterial salve. I feel better knowing I’m using a natural anti-bacterial product.
My sister, Lisa, some of you may know her, can testify to Lavender’s pain-relieving properties. One evening her dog accidently scratched the top of her foot with his toenails. It was bleeding and causing her a lot of pain, she had cleaned it, put some medications she had on hand, and still she complained of the pain. I grabbed my lavender put a couple of drops on the scratch, and she was amazed, the pain was instantly gone! Not only did it help with the pain but it healed super fast.
Lavender for Natural Insect Repellent
Additionally, lavender essential oil doubles as a natural insect repellant, keeping mosquitoes and bugs at bay with its scent. I blend other essential oils such as, cedarwood, rosemary, peppermint, lemon, and vanilla in witch hazel for a pleasant, effective all-natural insect repellent. Add to a mister bottle, and mist on before going outdoors.
To purchase All-Natural Mosquito & Bug Spray click here.
Lavender for Anxiety and Sleep Relief
For those struggling with anxiety or sleep issues, lavender essential oil works wonders. Its calming and sedative properties create a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and promoting restful sleep. I was initially skeptical but became a believer after experiencing its relaxing effects firsthand.
My son Allan, introduced me to Lavender when he was stationed in Virginia Beach. I was visiting and naturally when I am away from home I have trouble unwinding and going to sleep. He suggested rubbing Lavender on my wrist and behind my ears, as well as diffused it in the room where I was to sleep. I drifted into a peaceful sleep. After several nights of falling peacefully to sleep I went away from Virginia Beach with some Lavender of my own!
To purchase Lavender essential oil, click here.
To purchase Lavender roller bottles for easy convenient application to wrist, behind the ears, or bottom of feet, click here.
For Lavender Essential Oil Room Sprays click here.
What to Look for When Purchasing Lavender Essential Oil
When purchasing lavender essential oil, insure it’s pure by checking for the Latin name, (Lavandula angustifolia) on the label. No other oils or ingredients should be listed. Avoid diluted oils with additional ingredients and opt for dark amber or cobalt bottles for storage.
Thank you for exploring the benefits of lavender essential oil with me. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to share your experiences!
Kim Howard, Certified Aromatherapist
IMPORTANT NOTES:
Please check with your doctor before using essential oils to treat any medical concerns.
There's a difference between lavender essential oil or lavender oil, which is simply a perfume. If a label does not clearly state that it is Lavandula angustifolia then it is not a pure oil and should not be used as suggested.
Essential oils offer a natural, complementary approach to managing anxiety symptoms but are not a cure for anxiety disorders or treating anxiety. For a proper diagnosis and treatment, consult healthcare professionals. Essential oils are supportive elements in a holistic self-care routine and not substitutes for professional medical advice or treatment. Although lavender is one of the gentlest essential oils, please use caution when applying directly on the skin because this can cause irritation. Be sure to patch test on the inside of your arm beforehand.