Health Benefits of Lavender

Lavender has been used since ancient times to treat a variety of conditions. It is mentioned in ancient texts and comes from the Greek word lavare which means “to wash”. Lavender, historically and in modern times, is considered a purifying herb for both body and mind. Widely used in aromatherapy and other complimentary treatments, the health benefits of lavender are numerous.

Lavender Health Benefits

Anxiety: The essential oil of lavender has over 150 compounds that work quickly on the body. When inhaled, lavender triggers relaxation inducing brain waves making it very useful for releasing tension and calming the mind. Lavender oil is often used in massage for its relaxing and calming effects.

Insomnia: British studies have shown that the scent of lavender is useful in the treatment of mild insomnia. Many British hospitals are said to offer lavender pillows and baths to help their patients sleep.

Headaches: Lavender aromatherapy is useful for treating stress and tension related headaches and migraines. It helps the body relax allowing the blood vessels to dilate. Lavender tea is also useful for the nausea that often accompanies migraines.

Wounds: Lavender oil is also anitmicrobial and can be used in healing salves and lotions to help promote healing of the skin in general and to protect minor wounds from infection.

Digestion: Lavender helps to calm the muscle lining of the digestive tract and also promotes the secretion of bile to aid fat digestion. It has also been used to sooth menstrual cramping with some success.

Insect Repellant: Some of the compounds in lavender’s essential oil act as a natural repellent for a variety of insects.

Usage

To prepare a lavender infusion, steep 2-3 teaspoons dried flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. The infusion can drank as a tea to ease digestive troubles or placed on a compress to apply to wounds.

Lavender Essential Oil can be added to a carrier oil and massaged directly into the skin or inhaled for relaxation benefits. Drops of the oil can also be placed in the bath. *Lavender oil should never be taken internally

Many people sew dried lavender mixed with a few drops of essential oil into sachets or pillows to help them sleep better.