Lavender Versatility

Aromatic and Emotional: The “Angel of Healing and Purification”, lavender is one of the most gentle and versatile essential oils. Lavender has long been praised for bringing clarity, peace of mind and emotional balance. An herb from the mint family, lavender eases insomnia, depression, impatience, stress, worry and shock.

Medicinal: Consistent use has been known to help regulate the menstrual cycle, ease PMS and lower high blood pressure. Inhaling the steam of lavender buds and stems is beneficial for respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, colds, flu, coughs and sore throat.

Massage a drop of lavender essential oil into your temples and forehead to alleviate headaches.  Regular use of the oil strengthens the immune system and speeds the healing processes, especially when used in bath and massage. The strong antiseptic and antibacterial properties have been used for centuries in birthing rooms to purify the environment, help reduce labor pain, and calm the mother during childbirth.

Since lavender aids in regenerating skin cells, it is outstanding for burns and wounds (prevents scarring), skin infections, insect bites and stings, poison oak and ivy, athlete’s foot, skin problems and cold sores.  Since it may be applied directly to skin undiluted, lavender essential oil is often used with massage to relieve muscular, arthritic, and rheumatic pain.

Household Cleaning: Simply sprinkle lavender essential oil in a bucket of water to wash your floors. A few drops will disinfect countertops and sinks. Soak crystals and gems with water and a few drops of lavender oil.  Use a lavender sachet in the clothes dryer for moth control. Lavender is one of the most popular scents in detergents. Lavender is a natural flea and moth repellant, algae inhibitor (place a few sprigs of lavender in birdbath), clothes freshener, vacuum cleaner freshener and fragrant fireplace starters (dried).

Bath and Body Care: A few drops of lavender essential oil in the bath improve circulation and relaxation. Munch on fresh or dried lavender buds for a breath freshener.  Use the oil in natural soaps and lotions for healthy, luxurious skin. A lavender skin spritzer cools hot skin and soothes overworked muscles. Lavender oil blended in body powder (not talc) makes a safe, natural body and linen deodorizer. 

Culinary: Dried and fresh lavender are delicious in tisanes, teas, baking, cooking and infused in jellies. The leaves of the plant are also edible and make a beautiful garnish.