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24 September 2021 / Laura Garvin Gomez

Benefits and Uses of Lavender Oil

Some people consider lavender essential oil to be where aromatherapy truly began.

Lavender in field

Lavender essential oil is known to have a wealth of benefits, and is one of the most popular oils for both diffusion and topical use.

Used across the globe for its beautiful scent and relaxing properties, lavender is truly considered to be the mother-plant of modern aromatherapy.

Although it has been in use for many years, we are still constantly studying and discovering the many benefits it can provide us.

What we do know is that lavender’s ability to assist in the healing of our bodies and minds is incredibly well documented, and it is this ability that makes it one of the most popular essential oils.

What is lavender essential oil?

Lavender oil, also known as Lavandula angustifolia or "true lavender", derives from the lavender flower native to the Mediterranean. Lavender itself, however, is now grown all over the world, particularly in European regions such as France, Bulgaria and England.

Like many essential oils, lavender is extracted from its plant through steam distillation, which uses steam to separate the oil from its natural botanical product. Lavender oil is almost clear in colour, and contains a fresh and floral scent often associated with sleep and relaxation.

Lavender is very common in medicines, perfumery, cosmetics and herbal remedies.

 

What are the health benefits of lavender essential oil?

Lavender has been known to help with several mental and physical ailments, including, but not limited to:

  • Sleep
  • Stress & restlessness
  • Low mood
  • Infection
  • Burns
  • Wounds
  • Pain
  • Toxins, chemicals & pollutants
  • Hair loss

Let’s take a closer look at how lavender essential oil can help with all of these issues and ailments.

    Lavender stem and vial with oil in.

    Lavender oil benefits

    1. It can help you get a good night's sleep

    The calming effects of lavender have been documented for years, and lavender essential oil has long been one of the most popular essential oils for sleep.

    In 2018, a found that this calming effect comes from the ability of one of lavender oil’s chemical constituents, linalool, to affect the brain via smell.

    The scent is said to stimulate the olfactory system, which in turn stimulates parts of the brain responsible for mood, heart rate, and blood pressure, with no real side effects.

    discovered that inhalation of lavender carried a positive effect on sleep when tested amongst several other essential oils.

    conducted on people with medically severe sleep issues showed comparable improvements in their night’s rest after using lavender essential oil.

    2. It can help calm you down

    An evidence-based review found that smelling lavender helped to dispel severe levels of stress and restlessness, with results weighing up to the starting effects of some common medications.

    Learn more about using using essential oils to combat stress and restlessness.

    3. It can improve your mood

    The effects of medicinal aromatherapy on high-risk women after childbirth revealed positive findings in the use of aromatherapy for both stress and low mood over time.

    Though we know that linalool’s sedative qualities are known to help slow our heart rates and ease our worries, research is still ongoing as to why it is that lavender is so beneficial for our mental health.

    Lavender field with a path running through it

    4. It can help treat burns and wounds

    One of the oldest uses of lavender oil is in the treatment of burns and wounds.

    Lavender oil contains a constituent called beta-caryophyllene that acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, which makes it ideal for treating burns, sunburns, and allergic reactions.

    The application of diluted lavender oil to wounds can also assist in healing, as lavender can promote a collagen synthesis which allows our bodies to bind connective tissues faster.

    5. It can be used to treat infections

    The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of lavender are well researched – its two main constituents are linalool and linalyl acetate, which both have strong antimicrobial properties.

    A suggested that these effects are even more powerful when lavender oil is mixed with another oil such as clove, cinnamon, or tea tree oil.

    6. It can help reduce pain

    Not only is lavender oil said to have sedative and stress-relieving qualities – it is also known to be an anticonvulsant, which means that it may be able to relax constricted muscles. This has been found to have a positive effect on headaches and migraines.

    A by nursing students even showed that lavender can have a positive effect on menstrual cramps, and heated lavender-scented pillows are commonly used to help manage menstrual pain.

    Bunch of lavender tied together with string sat on a brick wall

    7. It can help prevent against toxins, chemicals and pollutants

    Lavender oil contains polyphenols, which act as natural antioxidants to fight free radicals such as toxins, chemicals, and pollutants.

    Free radicals can destroy cells over time and are largely responsible for the aging process, setting of chain reactions to attack cells throughout the body.

    However, antioxidants stabilise free radicals, inhibiting these chain reactions.

    The polyphenols in pure lavender essential oil are known to work to increase the activity of your body’s most powerful antioxidants, such as glutathione and catalase.

    Lavender essential oil’s antioxidant properties are also said to give it neuroprotective qualities – it is thought that this could potentially aid repair of neurological functions after a stroke, or contribute to the treatment of dementia, but so far this has only been

    Learn more about antioxidant essential oils.

    8. It can encourage hair growth

    A conducted on mice found that diluted application of lavender essential oil produced faster and fuller hair growth when applied topically once per day over a 4-week period. 

    An earlier also found that topical application of lavender essential oil used alongside rosemary oil saw positive effects on hair growth in patients with alopecia areata.

    Lavender on a cliff side with the sea behind it

    How to use lavender essential oil

    1. Aromatherapy

    Combine 5-7 drops of the oil with water and add to an oil burner or diffuser for a calming floral scent.

    Alternatively, you can simply hold a bottle of lavender essential oil to your nose and inhale.

    Add a few drops to a tissue or cotton ball for on-the-go aromatherapy.

    Looking for creative ways to use your lavender essential oil? Discover a number of fun candle and soap recipes in our Make at Home blog section.

    2. Massage

    Dilute 5 drops to 10ml of carrier oil (such as coconut or jojoba oil) and massage evenly into the skin.

    Lavender oil is known to help ease the muscles of the body as well as lessen joint and back pain. Massage into the affected area for efficient and relaxing relief.

    notes that massages with lavender essential oil as one of the most common complimentary therapies in the UK.

    We always advise to perform a patch test before using lavender essential oil on the skin.

    3. Bath

    Add 6-8 drops to warm bathwater for a relaxing at-home spa experience.

    Dropping lavender essential oil into your bathtub will provide you with a number of the same benefits as standard aromatherapy usage, and even concluded that doing so can help to boost general psychological well-being over time.

    4. Skincare

    Add a couple of drops to a carrier oil (such as coconut or jojoba oil) or your chosen lotion and spread evenly, or on affected areas.

    We always advise to perform a patch test before using lavender essential oil on the skin.

    5. Soap & Candles

    Suitable for soap making and candle making. We recommend following a tested recipe.

    Visit our blog to discover fun and creative DIYs and ideas.

    What are the different lavender essential oil varieties?

    There are many different types of lavender essential oil. These variations differ slightly in smell, but they are all near-identical in their benefits.

    Here are some of the most common:

    • True lavender: The most famous lavender oil, true lavender is most commonly grown in either France or England, and may vary slightly in scent depending on the soil it is grown in. It may be sold as English or French lavender, but you can always spot true lavender by its botanical name: Lavandula angustifolia.
    • Bulgarian lavender: Bulgarian lavender is usually still true lavender, only grown in Bulgaria. Look for that true lavender botanical name to make sure. It can sometimes have a stronger, fuller scent - this can depend on supplier.
    • Spike Lavender: This variation comes from a sub species of the lavender plant also known as Portuguese lavender and is known to have more invigorating properties than traditionally calming true lavender.
    • Lavandin: A hybrid plant formed by the cross pollination of spike lavender and true lavender, lavandin has a much higher concentration of camphor than true lavender, and shares spike lavender's more invigorating properties.
    • Lavender 40/42: Whilst lavender 40/42 is still composed of 100% natural lavender oils, it is a standardised blend of 40% linalool and 42% linalyl acetate designed to give the most consistent lavender scent.

    What is the correct dosage for lavender oil?

    There are a wide range of ways to gain the lavender oil benefits we’ve mentioned. However, it's important to note that essential oils, including lavender oil, are highly concentrated and should be used with caution.

    • Topical Application: For topical use, it is recommended to dilute lavender oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil or almond oil. A general guideline is to use 1-2 drops of lavender oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. For sensitive skin, it's better to start with a higher dilution, like 1 drop of essential oil in 2 teaspoons of carrier oil.
    • Aromatherapy: For inhalation, you can add 3-5 drops of lavender oil to a diffuser filled with water. It's recommended to diffuse for about 30-60 minutes at a time.
    • Bath: Add 5-10 drops of lavender oil mixed with a carrier oil or bath salts to a full bathtub of water.

    Remember, more is not always better. It's always best to start with a lower dose and increase gradually if needed.

    Consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially for children, pregnant or nursing women, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can lavender essential oil treat allergies?

    Lavender oil has been known to help alleviate mild allergy symptoms like congestion and skin irritation. However, it is not a cure for allergies and should not replace prescribed allergy medications for severe cases.

    It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using lavender oil for allergies, especially if you have severe allergies or respiratory issues.

    Will adding lavender oil to my mascara make my lashes grow faster?

    While lavender oil has potential benefits for hair growth, including eyelashes, adding it directly to mascara is not recommended. Eyelashes are delicate, and the proximity of essential oils to the eyes can be irritating.

    Applying diluted lavender oil to your lash line with a clean mascara wand may promote growth without the risk of eye irritation.

    However, it's crucial to be cautious and avoid direct contact with your eyes.

    Is lavender essential oil a cure for baldness?

    While lavender essential oil isn't a guaranteed cure, it does show promise in promoting hair growth and improving overall hair health.

    Studies suggest that it can enhance blood circulation to the scalp and reduce hair loss, potentially leading to thicker and healthier hair.

    Though it may not completely reverse baldness, lavender oil can be a valuable addition to your hair care routine, contributing to revitalised and more vibrant hair.

    Can I apply lavender oil directly to skin?

    Lavender oil is renowned for its skin-friendly properties. You can safely apply it directly to the skin, provided you dilute it with a carrier oil. This not only ensures safety but also maximises its soothing and aromatic benefits.

    A few drops of lavender oil mixed with a carrier oil can be a delightful addition to your skincare routine, promoting relaxation and contributing to healthier, glowing skin.

    Who should not use lavender oil?

    For children under two years old, it's advisable to avoid using lavender oil. Individuals with known allergies to lavender or other essential oils should refrain from use.

    If you have highly sensitive skin, performing a patch test can help ensure a positive experience.

    While lavender is generally safe during pregnancy and nursing, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended to explore the potential benefits it may offer for these stages of life.

    For most individuals, lavender oil can be a valuable and enjoyable addition to their wellness and skincare routines, with the potential for soothing and uplifting effects.

    What is the history of lavender essential oil?

    Although the practice of inhaling essential oil has been around for thousands of years, the term ‘aromatherapy’ wasn’t created until the early 20th century, when French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse self-treated a burn with lavender essential oil.

    He was hardly the first to use lavender for its healing qualities, however – the Egyptians, Romans and Greeks all explored the calming, healing, and soothing qualities of lavender. In fact, it is said that the Egyptians even used it around Tutankhamun’s tomb, as traces of it were found upon its discovery.

    The name ‘lavender’ is also said to derive from the Latin word “lavare” meaning “to wash”. This is due to the Romans using the plant in their baths, bedlinen, and clothes.

    Though much is still to be discovered about what lavender essential oil can do for us, there is no doubt that it has become the pioneer for modern aromatherapy for a reason and will likely continue its powerful legacy for years to come.

    Product Name

    100% Pure Lavender (French) Essential Oil
    Botanical Name Lavandula Angustifolia
    Scent Type Floral
    Benefits & Uses Calming, Sleeping Aid, Hair Care
    Suitable for Diffusers? Yes, this lavender (french) essential oil is perfect for diffusers.
    Suitable for Candles and Soaps? Yes, this lavender (french) essential oil is perfect for candle and soap making.
    Extraction Method Steam Distillation
    Bottle Type Tamper proof and UV resistant

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