Also known as lavender, lavender is an ornamental plant used to treat internal and external problems such as body aches and dermatitis. For these feats, it can be used in the form of an infusion or essential oil.
But those who believe that knowledge about the benefits of this species are recent is wrong. Since ancient times, Greeks, Romans and Arabs have used this plant to prevent the proliferation of microorganisms in the mucous membranes.
In addition, lavender was also used to treat headaches and to fight problems that affect the brain. Currently, this same plant has other therapeutic uses, such as the sedative and hypotensive effect.
And to take advantage of these advantages, you need to know how to use lavender essential oil correctly, whether in massage or inhalation. For this, the patient must be aware of the most appropriate form of treatment for the problem presented.
Table of Contents
What is lavender essential oil for?
The main use of lavender essential oil is in aromatherapy, aromatherapy to prevent and aid in the healing process of physical, emotional and mental problems . Currently, this oil is one of the safest and most used, as it can be used pure, is practical and suitable for all skin types.
Helps in the treatment of depression
Lavender oil has the ability to act against the disease that is considered the “evil of the century”, depression. According to a study, this natural product increases the capacity of the nervous system to adapt to new experiences and helps in the process of forming new neurons.
The effect of lavender has also been tested in women with postpartum depression . They were divided into two groups, one received an inhalation and the other an oil massage. In both cases, there was a reduction, but in the latter the results were better, verifying the effectiveness of the remedy and the applied technique.
Improves mood and fights anxiety
After inhaling the oil, it is possible to improve mood and fight restlessness. Experiments have indicated significant reductions in blood pressure and heart and respiratory rate in patients who underwent treatment. In addition, they were more relaxed , more active and less sleepy.
Combat pain and relax
Inhaling this natural product is also related to less pain. Therefore, it can be used to treat simple headaches, migraines, rheumatism, arthritis and muscle pain in general.
In addition, it can act as an analgesic in patients undergoing hemodialysis, as anxiety can aggravate pain in these individuals, and as we have seen, the oil helps to control this feeling.
But not only inhalation can be beneficial in the case of pain , massages with this oil can also contribute to reducing these discomforts. That’s because, lavender balances extreme emotions and promotes emotional tranquility.
It also rests the mind and promotes physical and mental well-being, as it provides a relaxation of brain waves, reducing stress and tension.
Eliminates micro-organisms
Viruses, bacteria and fungi are blocked by the action of lavender in the body. In many cases, the natural product ends up being even more effective than some antibiotics, such as amoxicillin.
For example, this plant can inhibit the growth of Haemophilus influenzae, a bacterium that causes infections in the nose and throat; the Herpes simplex type 1 virus that can cause genital sores or lips; and Candida albicans , the fungus responsible for the infectious disease candidiasis .
Other treatments
- Psoriasis
- Acne
- burns
- insect bites
- Stretch marks
- wrinkles
- Cramps
- Indigestion
How to use this product?
As seen in the previous topics, the oil can be applied in massages or used in the form of inhalation. Lavender flowers also make a tea used both externally and internally.
Massages
To massage with the essential oil, just apply it directly to the skin and perform the ideal movements. For example, if the goal is to relax the massaged area, then it is necessary to slide your hands flat over the body. This technique is indicated to decongest the veins, improving circulation.
Another way to optimize circulation while treating your muscles is to use compression. This means to say that you should compress certain areas with your hands, applying light pressure.
Inhalation
Boil a liter of water and pour into a bowl. Then add 30 drops of oil and then position the head to receive all the vaporization from this method.
Lavender flower tea
Lavender infusion is made with 20 grams of dried flowers in a liter of boiling water. This tea can be consumed up to three times a day and helps with internal treatments.
For those who want to use this same infusion in topical treatment, such as sitz baths and compresses, it is recommended to use 50 grams of the plant in a liter of hot water.
Contraindications and side effects
The internal use of the plant, as in the case of tea from its flowers, should only be done under medical supervision. That’s because, this remedy can irritate the mucous membranes. It is also recommended to avoid this prolonged use.
In the group of contraindications are people who suffer from gastro-duodenal ulcers or hematuria (blood in the urine), pregnant women and nursing mothers . Also, lavender essential oil in high doses can cause drowsiness , so it’s important to avoid using it before driving.
My name is Ellie Lauderdale, MD and I am USA based professional Nutritionist .
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board certified specialist in sports dietetics who is trained in integrative medicine. I have worked with hundreds of clients, from those suffering with chronic disease to professional and olympian athletes. My goal is to help optimize you from the inside so that you can feel, perform, and look your best on the outside.