Kaboutjie SA Mommy Blogs by Lynne Huysamen
Lavender oil is an essential oil that is extracted from the flowers of the lavender plant. It has a sweet, floral scent and is commonly used in aromatherapy. Lavender oil is a versatile and popular essential oil that has been used for centuries for its therapeutic properties. From reducing stress and anxiety to promoting better sleep, lavender oil has a wide range of benefits that make it a must-have in any natural health toolkit. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 benefits of lavender oil and how to use it to improve your health and well-being.
***Disclosure -The links in this post may contain affiliate links and I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking on a link.***
Lavender Oil Benefits
Reduces Anxiety And Stress
One of the most well-known benefits of lavender oil is its ability to reduce anxiety and stress. Studies have shown that inhaling lavender oil can help to calm the nervous system and promote relaxation. It can also help to reduce symptoms of anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder.
To use lavender oil for anxiety and stress relief, try adding a few drops to a diffuser or inhaling it directly from the bottle. You can also mix it with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it to your temples or wrists for a calming effect. You can add a few drops to a warm bath or mix it with a carrier oil and apply it to your skin.
Promotes Better Sleep
Lavender oil is also known for its ability to promote better sleep. Inhaling lavender oil before bedtime has been shown to improve the quality of sleep and reduce symptoms of insomnia. It can also help to calm the mind and reduce racing thoughts, making it easier to fall asleep. To use lavender oil for better sleep, try adding a few drops to a diffuser or pillow spray, or mix it with a carrier oil and apply it to your chest or feet before bed.
Relieves Headaches And Migraines
Another surprising benefit of lavender oil is its ability to relieve headaches and migraines. The oil has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with headaches. To use lavender oil for headaches, mix a few drops with a carrier oil and massage it into your temples and forehead. You can also inhale the oil by adding a few drops to a bowl of hot water and breathing in the steam.
Lavender Oil For Skin
Lavender oil is also great for your skin. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties make it effective in treating acne, eczema, and other skin conditions. It can also help to reduce redness and irritation, and promote faster healing of wounds and scars. To use lavender oil for your skin, mix a few drops with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil and apply it to the affected area. You can also add a few drops to your bathwater for an overall relaxing and skin-nourishing experience.
Lavender Oil For Hair
Lavender oil is also great for your hair. Its antimicrobial properties make it effective in treating dandruff and other scalp conditions. It can also help to promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. To use lavender oil for your hair, mix a few drops with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before washing it out with shampoo. You can also add a few drops to your regular shampoo or conditioner for added benefits.
Menstrual Pain
Lavender oil has been found to be effective in reducing menstrual pain and bleeding due to its anti-inflammatory properties. The oil works by soothing the prostaglandins that cause pain and uterine contractions during menstruation. As the uterus sheds its lining, it contracts and expands, causing inflammation in the surrounding blood vessels. Lavender oil helps to relax the muscles and reduce swelling, providing relief from menstrual cramps.
Depression
Lavender essential oil has been found to have a positive impact on depression and mood. This is because when we inhale a scent, it travels directly to the limbic system in our brain, which controls our emotions, memories, and pain and pleasure responses. The limbic system is also linked to physical responses such as heart rate, blood pressure, and stress levels. Lavender oil helps regulate the production of serotonin and dopamine, which are known as the “happy hormones” and can reduce feelings of sadness and depression.
In addition to inhaling the oil, it can also be applied topically as it quickly enters the bloodstream and affects every cell in the body within 20 minutes. Unlike traditional medications, lavender oil has no known side effects and can provide similar benefits. Overall, lavender oil can play an important role in improving emotional and mental health.
Bed Bugs
While there is no scientific evidence to support the use of lavender oil as a bed bug repellent, some people swear by its effectiveness. Lavender oil contains compounds that have insecticidal properties, which could potentially repel bed bugs. Additionally, the strong scent of lavender can confuse and deter bed bugs from biting. However, it is important to note that lavender oil should not be relied upon as the sole method of bed bug control and should be used in conjunction with other proven methods.
- Dilute lavender oil with water or carrier oil – To use lavender oil as a bed bug repellent, it is important to dilute it with water or a carrier oil such as coconut oil or almond oil. This will help to spread the scent of the lavender oil and make it more effective.
- Spray lavender oil on bedding and furniture – Once the lavender oil is diluted, it can be sprayed on bedding, furniture, and other areas where bed bugs may be present. Be sure to spray a generous amount and focus on areas where bed bugs are known to hide.
- Use lavender oil in a diffuser – Another way to use lavender oil to repel bed bugs is to use it in a diffuser. This will help to spread the scent of the lavender oil throughout the room and make it more difficult for bed bugs to find their way to your bed.
- Add lavender oil to laundry detergent – Adding a few drops of lavender oil to your laundry detergent can also help to repel bed bugs. This will help to keep your bedding and clothing smelling fresh and clean, while also making it more difficult for bed bugs to find their way to your bed.
- Use lavender oil in a spray bottle – Another way to use lavender oil to repel bed bugs is to mix it with water in a spray bottle. This can be sprayed on bedding, furniture, and other areas where bed bugs may be present.
- Apply lavender oil directly to skin – While lavender oil is generally safe for use on skin, it is important to dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it directly to your skin. This can help to repel bed bugs and keep them from biting you while you sleep.
- Reapply lavender oil regularly – To keep bed bugs at bay, it is important to reapply lavender oil regularly. This will help to maintain the scent and keep bed bugs from finding their way to your bed.
Antifungal
Studies have found that lavender oil may be a powerful weapon in the fight against antifungal-resistant infections. The essential oil has been shown to have strong antifungal properties, particularly against the types of fungi that cause common skin and nail infections. This discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for these stubborn infections that are becoming increasingly difficult to treat with traditional antifungal medications.
Nausea
Lavender essential oil has been found to be effective in reducing nausea caused by anxiety or physical pain. The sweet and floral scent of lavender has calming properties that can help alleviate both anxiety and nausea. In a randomized study, lavender was found to be more effective than ginger and rose in treating postoperative nausea and vomiting, with 82% of subjects in the lavender group showing improvement in their symptoms. To use lavender essential oil for nausea, simply add a few drops to a tissue and inhale slowly five times, or spray an aromatherapy shower mist in a warm shower.
Are There Any Side Effects Of Using Lavender Oil?
Lavender oil is generally considered safe for most people when used as directed. However, some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions. It is always best to do a patch test before using any new essential oil.
It is unclear whether lavender oil is safe for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as there is not enough reliable information available. To err on the side of caution, it is recommended to avoid using lavender oil during these times.
Can Lavender Oil Be Used In Combination With Other Treatments?
Lavender oil can be used in combination with other treatments for stress and anxiety, such as therapy or medication. However, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before using any new treatments.
It is important to exercise caution when using lavender oil before surgery. This is because lavender has the potential to slow down the central nervous system. If used in conjunction with anesthesia and other medications given during and after surgery, it could potentially slow down the central nervous system too much. To avoid any potential complications, it is recommended to stop using lavender oil at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Be careful when using lavender oil in conjunction with sedative medications. Lavender has been known to induce drowsiness and slow down breathing, which can be exacerbated when combined with sedatives. This can lead to breathing difficulties and excessive sleepiness, so it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using lavender oil alongside sedative medications.
Recommended Lavender Products
Naturra Calm24 Lavender Oil Softgel Supplements
Naturra Calm24 Lavender Oil Softgel Supplements are a natural way to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Made with pure lavender oil, these softgel supplements are easy to swallow and provide a convenient way to incorporate the benefits of lavender into your daily routine. The calming properties of lavender oil have been used for centuries to promote relaxation and reduce stress, making it a popular choice for those looking for natural ways to support their mental health and wellbeing.
Features
- Made with pure lavender oil, water, glycerin, gelatin, and water
- Easy to swallow softgel supplements
- Convenient way to incorporate the benefits of lavender into your daily routine
- Promotes relaxation and reduces stress
Benefits
- Natural way to support mental health and wellbeing
- Helps to reduce stress and promote relaxation
- Easy to incorporate into your daily routine
- Made with pure, high-quality ingredients for maximum effectiveness
Gya Labs Pure Lavender Oil Essential Oil
Gya Labs Pure Lavender Oil Essential Oil is a premium quality, undiluted essential oil that is perfect for aromatherapy, massage, skin health, and hair care. This high-quality oil is extracted from the flowers of the Lavandula angustifolia plant, which is known for its calming and stress-relieving properties. With its sweet, floral aroma, this essential oil is perfect for creating a relaxing and soothing atmosphere in your home or office.
Features
- 100% pure and undiluted essential oil
- Premium quality lavender oil
- Perfect for aromatherapy, massage, skin health, and hair care
- Calming and stress-relieving properties
- Sweet, floral aroma
Benefits
- Promotes relaxation and reduces stress
- Helps to improve sleep quality
- Soothes skin and promotes healthy hair
- Can be used in a diffuser, as a massage oil, or added to bath water
- High-quality oil that is free from additives and synthetic fragrances
Aromatherapy Lavender Shampoo and Conditioner Set
This Aromatherapy Lavender Shampoo and Conditioner Set is the perfect solution for those looking for a natural, sulfate and paraben-free hair care option. Infused with the calming scent of lavender, this set is formulated with a blend of coconut and jojoba oils, shea butter, oat extract, and castor oil to hydrate, smooth, and volumize your hair. Free of silicone, this set is gentle on your hair and scalp, leaving your hair feeling soft, shiny, and healthy.
Features
- Sulfate and paraben-free
- Infused with the calming scent of lavender
- Formulated with a blend of natural ingredients, including coconut and jojoba oils, shea butter, oat extract, and castor oil
- Silicone-free
- Hydrating, smoothing, and volumising
Benefits
- Gentle on your hair and scalp
- Leaves your hair feeling soft, shiny, and healthy
- Free of harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances
- Infused with the calming scent of lavender for a relaxing shower experience
- Suitable for all hair types, including colour-treated hair.
Lavender Essential Oil Roll On
This Lavender Essential Oil Roll On is the perfect on-the-go solution for headaches, migraines, and relaxation. Made with 100% pure lavender essential oil, this roll on is gentle on the skin and can be used for aromatherapy or as a natural perfume. The compact 10ml size makes it easy to carry in your purse or pocket for whenever you need a moment of calm.
Features
- 100% pure lavender essential oil
- Compact 10ml size
- Roll on applicator for easy use
- Can be used for aromatherapy or as a natural perfume
Benefits
- Helps to relieve headaches and migraines
- Promotes relaxation and calmness
- Can be used as a natural alternative to synthetic perfumes
- Easy to use and convenient for on-the-go wellness
InnoGear Essential Oil Diffuser
The InnoGear Essential Oil Diffuser is the perfect addition to any home or office. With its compact size, it can fit on any desk or tabletop. It features 2 misting modes, intermittent or continuous, and can run for up to 4 hours on continuous mist mode. The diffuser also has 8 soothing colors of light that can be switched from dim to bright, creating a calming and relaxing atmosphere. The auto-off feature ensures safety by turning off the diffuser when the water runs out.
Features
- Compact size
- AC/DC adapter
- 2 misting modes (intermittent or continuous)
- 8 soothing colors of light
- Auto-off when water runs out
Benefits
- Creates a calming and relaxing atmosphere
- Can be used with any pure essential oils
- Perfect for home or office use
- Easy to use and maintain
