The Power of Lavender
By Christelle Baxter
Botanical name: Lavandula angustifolia
Everybody knows of Lavender and I like to think I’m correct in saying almost all of us love it? It’s a herb that’s hard to avoid for its' gorgeous purple colouring, distinctive smell, multipurpose uses and proven soothing effects being one the most popular natural remedies to treat insomnia and improve sleep.
Lavender comes from the same plant family as mint (Lamiaceae) and is native to the Mediterranean. Today it is grown all over the world, France being the “hot spot”.
Widely used since Ancient Egypt times, where it was first a part of the mummification process, lavender took to Rome, Greece and Persia for the use in baths, believed to purify the mind and body. Old English farmers caught onto the herb to prevent headaches and sunstroke when working.
Today, it can be traced in soaps, perfume, candles, drugs, crafts and much more as an essential oil and dried plant.
The main healing properties of Lavender range from:
- Soothe skin irritations (burns and rashes)
- Treat digestive problems
- Help with Insomnia
- Promote better sleep
- Relieve mental exhaustion and restlessness
- May offer a natural remedy for pain or aches
- Could help lift feelings of depression
- Help with anxiety
Lavender in Aromatherapy.
It is without a doubt that lavender is one of the most popular and versatile essential oils in aromatherapy. The oil is extracted through steam distillation from the flowering tops of the plant and used for promoting calmness.
Unlike many other essential oils, Lavender can be applied to the skin undiluted. It’s also known to absorb into the skin very quickly, successfully used in massages and baths, as well as the obvious method of inhalation.
While lavender oil is relatively safe, it can cause discomfort for some. Stop using the oil if you experience any negative side effects.
Here at Wild Planet Aromatherapy we use Lavender essential oil (sourced from Provence, France) as our number 1 choice for a relaxing blend; creating fragrances to help you unwind.
Shop our lavender blends:
We hope that our above products create comforting aromas and can help you to decompress. Especially for those of you suffering during these difficult times of lockdown.
My top recommendation in accordance with this topic would be our Deep Slumber Pillow Mist.
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