Lavender is the most popular plant used in aromatherapy. Widely available in various forms, from soaps and candles to perfumes, and essential oils, lavender truly is a universal scent that conjures up images of a sunny Provençal afternoon. But did you know that besides its powerful calming benefits, lavender has many healing uses as well? Here are five uses of lavender essential oil that may surprise you: *We are not medical doctors and this article is not intended for medical advice so please consult your own physician before using any product for medical purposes.
Burn Recovery
- Use lavender oil for minor burn injuries and for recovery supplementation (not replacement of medical care) following major burns. Lavender not only helps calm the painful burning sensation it also helps the skin heal and minimize scarring.
Bug Repellant
- While we think lavender smells clean, fresh, and floral, bugs seem to hate it. Place a few drops on your skin to keep mosquitos away, or spray yourself with a diluted mixture of lavender and water. There are many benefits of using lavender essential oil instead of store-bought sprays. It’s an all-natural product that contains zero DEET and it smells great. If you have a sensitivity to commercial bug repellents, a gentler, sweeter-smelling application of lavender might help you.
Skin
- Because of its antiseptic properties, lavender was used in World War I to help soldiers fight off infection, sepsis, putrefaction, and gangrene. While we don’t necessarily have to deal with skin putrefaction on a daily basis, lavender is still just as good as fighting infection as it was 100 years ago. Simply add a few drops of oil to a recent cut to help it stop bleeding. At the same time, it will clean the wound and fight off any bacteria.
Inflammation
- Part of the reason lavender feels so good when you apply it to your burn is that it has anti-inflammatory properties. Rubbing just a little on inflamed or swollen areas can significantly reduce swelling and alleviate pain. And if you have sensitivities to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), then natural topical remedies like lavender are a great alternative.
Added Flavor
- Have you ever eaten lavender scones, lavender honey, or sugared lavender? It’s no secret that lavender has many culinary uses. But while we mostly associate lavender with teas and desserts, it can also be used as a flavor enhancer. It is often added to sweet or savory dishes not to add flavor, but to amplify the basic tastes, making them more complex and more delicious.
- Information for this blog post was sourced from Mantra Wellness Center