Lavender essential oil (Lavandula officinalis/vera/fragrans)

Character Mellow, peaceful

Lavender oils are distilled from the blue flowering spikes of the lavender bush, just before opening. The plant is widely cultivated in Europe and a hybrid called Lavender grows wild in the Mediterranean area. The lavender plant has been used in medicine since ancient times, and was introduced to England by the Romans. It has long been known as an antiseptic and an insecticide, and was known for clearing head lice in the 17th century. It is also well known for its skin-healing properties. Lavender oil is invaluable in a home first aid kit, particularly for insect stings, cuts and burns. It is the first choice for insomnia and anxiety, and also boosts the immune system. It is also of course, a popular constituent of perfumes and cosmetic products.

Aroma: Clean, balsamic, light, herbaceous.

Properties: Analgesic, antidepressant, antiseptic, anti-viral, carminative, deodorant, detoxifying, fungicide, insecticide, restorative, sedative. Healing for mind and body.

Physical conditions: Circulation relieves chilblains

Eliminatory system: For pain when urinating

Hormonal system: Helpful for hot flushes

Hair: and scalp kills head lice; helpful against hair loss

Immune system: Stimulates when below par (indicated by chronic or recurrent infections)

Musculosketal system: Relaxing arthritic pain, painful joints and sprains

Nervous system: relaxing and sedative, excellent for insomnia, tension headaches and migraine and exhaustion

Respiratory system: Relieves sore or dry throat

Skin: Healing and antiseptic for abscess, acne dermatitis, eczema, burns, sunburn, cuts, insect stings and bites.

Mental/emotional conditions: Excellent for all forms of anxiety and tension. For apprehensiveness with vague fears; nightmares and feelings of panic and inner trembling; fear of the dark.

Other uses Helpful with tinnitus when sensitive to noise. Counteracts travel sickness.

Applications: Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Footbath. Hair oil/rinse. Inhalation. Massage. Room fragrance. A drop or two can be dabbed direct on insect stings; use dilute on burns.

Blends well: with Clary Sage, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Juniper.