Lavender Essential Oil

There are 28 species and numerous varieties of the Lavender flower which form white to purple in color.

These silvery-leaved, shrubby evergreen perennials are covered in aromatic oil glands, which are most concentrated in the summer flowers. All flowers carry the sweet balsamic scent.

Therapeutic effects:

It is the most versatile of essential oils, with a great many properties including sedative, antidepressant, antiseptic, and painkilling to benefit the body, mind, and emotions. It acts as a sedative in small doses but stimulating in large doses.

It blends well with almost all other oils and when it is blended, its therapeutic qualities seem to increase. It has a rejuvenating effect on all skin types, especially for those with delicate and sensitive skin.

Its primary importance is in stress. It also strengthens the immune system, whose efficiency may be reduced under stress. It has been used to reduce restlessness and panic attacks. Hospitals are now beginning to recognize that it can help patients achieve a comfortable, relaxed sleep. The essential oil can be massaged on for asthma, acute and chronic bronchitis, rheumatic pains, colds, coughs and flu.

Uses:

It has long been valued for its sweet, clean, relaxing, insect-repellent fragrance. It is used in a wide variety of ways to enjoy its qualities, ranging from potpourri, linen sachets, drawer liners, herb pillows, pet basket linings and incense to bowls of flowers. It is used in masculine perfumes, cosmetics, soaps, cleaning products and insect repellent.

Growth & Propagation:

Sow species from fresh seeds in late summer in an open, sunny site in well drained, open, limy soil. Thin or transplant to 18 to 24 inches apart or 12 inches from hedging. Remove all faded flower stems; prune hedges and plants in late fall or spring.