Its name derives from the Latin root “lavare,” which literally means “to wash.”  The earliest recorded use of lavender dates back to ancient Egypt.  There, lavender oil played a role in the mummification process.  The reason for this was to ensure that the person would be welcomed into the afterlife.  However, the embalmers included the oil in the process as much for their antibacterial properties as for their scented appeal.

During later times, lavender became a bath additive in several regions, including Persia, ancient Greece, and Rome.  These cultures believed that lavender helped purify the body and mind.

Since ancient times, lavender has been used to treat many different ailments, including:

• mental health issues
• anxiety
• insomnia
• depression
• headaches
• hair loss
• nausea
• acne
• toothaches
• skin irritations
• cancer

Current uses of lavender

Lavender is a multipurpose plant.  People use lavender in many ways to promote good health and well-being.  Introducing essential oils can be life changing.  For example, such as Lavender oil, this can result in a healthier calmer way of life.

Aromatherapy

Lavender is most commonly used in aromatherapy.  The fragrance from the oils of the lavender plant.  It is believed to help promote calmness and wellness.  Not only that it can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and possibly even mild pain.

There are some studies available that have found that topically applying lavender, plus sage and rose, could reduce the severity of menstrual cramps.

Potential cancer and dementia help

According to some studies aromatherapy can help patients manage the side effects of cancer treatment.  Smell receptors send messages to the brain.  These can affect your mood.  Aromatherapy may also help adults who suffer from dementia.

While many people swear by its aromatic healing powers.  The scientific community is not so sure.  Many of the tests conducted around lavender have had conflicting results.

Sleep aid

Once upon a time, lavender was recommended for people suffering from insomnia or other sleep disorders. People stuffed their pillows with lavender flowers to help them fall asleep and get a better night’s rest.

Today, aromatherapists use lavender to treat headaches and nervousness or restlessness. Massage therapists sometimes apply lavender oil to the skin, which might function both as a calming agent and a sleep aid. In Germany, lavender tea has been approved as a supplement to treat sleep disruptions, restlessness, and stomach irritation.

Skin and hair conditions

Topical use of lavender oil might help to treat a disease called alopecia aerate, which causes a person’s hair to fall out in patches.

In one study, published people rubbed the essential oils of lavender, thyme, rosemary, and cedarwood on the areas where hair had fallen out.  Some people experienced hair regrowth over the course of seven months.

However, there was no way for the researchers to determine which of the oils was responsible.

When applied to the skin, lavender oils have shown positive results.  It can help with eczema, acne, sunburns, and nappy rash.

Lots of Love

I am always happy to answer questions.  I will be sharing more tips and DIY recipes for aromatherapy.

Of course, I am still very much skincare, but don’t forget skincare, for me, is about treating it as a whole.  Not just surface…

Until next time,