Lavender essential oil is the go to oil by many people who have problems sleeping. To use add 5 drops to your diffuser an hour before bed. Can also be left diffusing all night.
Essential Oil Profile - Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) 15ml Cost $15
Also known as true Lavender.
Family: Lamiaceae/Labiatae
Botany origins and history
Produced mainly in France, United Kingdom, Bulgaria, Hungary, Croatia, China, Russia, and Tasmania. The one that I have available comes from France. Lavender has a shelf life of 2 to 3 years.
Lavender is a shrubby green bush with silver spike shaped greyish green leaves and has flowers in various shades of Lavender to purple. The plant is harvested in midsummer and left to dry for a couple of days to maximise the aroma.
The ancient Greeks, Persians and Romans burned Lavender in rooms where people were sick. The word Lavender is derived from the Latin word Lavera which means to wash. The Romans used the Lavender flowers in the baths.
In 1926 Maurice Gattefosse a chemist in his families perfumery business was working on an experiment as to how the antiseptic qualities of the natural plant essences were more effective than their counterparts when during this experiment he burned his hand very badly. Looking for relief from the pain he placed his hand into the nearest vat of fluid which happened to be Lavender essential oil. The Lavender essential oil instantly reduced the stinging, and over the next few days he experienced an increased rate of healing to his skin.
Parts used: Flower Heads
Method of Extraction: Steam Distilled
Oil Characteristics: Lavender essential oil has no colour to a yellow tinged liquid. Its aroma can be described as a strong floral with woody undertones.
Therapeutic actions: Calmative, sedative, antiseptic, antidepressant, antibacterial, analgesic, anti infectious, anti inflammatory, cytophylactic, soporific, and vulnerary.
Suggested uses: tension, panic, anxiety, stress, nervousness and related conditions, wounds, cuts, inflammatory conditions, insomnia, and problems sleeping.
Energetics and subtle Aromatherapy:
Regular inhalation of Lavender promotes longevity. In the emotional and spiritual realms it promotes a sense of serenity and wellbeing. In feng shui aromatics use to calm and balance energy. A beautiful grounding and purifying essential oil.
Safety: Not to be taken internally. Use topically and aromatically only. Can be applied neat however it is recommended to blend with a carrier oil before applying topically. Keep out of reach of children. No contraindications. May cause skin irritations in some people. Safe for children to use topically and aromatically. Do not use Lavender if you are taking sedative medications.
Personal Observations: Lavender has a beautiful floral aroma with woody undertones that is calming, relaxing, and promotes a restful sleep. Its soothing aroma is healing to the mind body and soul.
Lavender is the essential oil go to if you struggle with stress, anxiety, or have problems sleeping due to its deep calming and relaxing properties. It's also the perfect essential oil to rub on to those pesty mosquito bites. Lavender has a middle perfume note with a strong aroma. Use Lavender sparingly due to its strong aroma.
