Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils to heal and to create specific moods. Lavender is one of the most versatile essential oils, and has numerous uses, from creating a relaxing atmosphere to inducing sleep and healing conditions such as anxiety and depression.
History
The use of lavender in aromatherapy dates back to ancient Egypt. In her book "Natural Beauty at Home," Janice Cox points out that lavender has been used in cosmetics for centuries because it is traditionally believed to give good luck to women. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that the name "lavender" originates from the Latin word "lavare," which means to wash, and that lavender may have been so named because of its use in baths to help purify the body and spirit.
Types
There are three main varieties of the lavender plant, from which essential oils are produced. True lavender, also known as English lavender or common lavender, is the most well-known variety. True lavender has barrel-shaped purple flowers, and is used to make the essential oil that can be found in many holistic and health stores. Spike lavender is also used to produce essential oil. Its flowers are spiky in shape and it has broader leaves compared to those of the true lavender plant. Lavandin is another form of lavender that is sold in essential oil form, labeled specifically as "lavandin." Also known as Dutch lavender, it is a hybrid of spike and true lavender. The National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service points out that lavandin is traditionally mixed with true lavender to create a more pleasing aroma.
Geography
Lavender can be grown in most temperate climates. According to the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service, lavender is widely produced in the United States, Great Britain, Japan, the Ukraine, Argentina and Brazil. Lavender is a hardy plant which can sustain difficult winters with heavy mulching of the plants.
Function
Lavender is a versatile essential oil which can be used for many purposes. Janice Cox points out that lavender oil calms the nerves and promotes relaxation. Lavender is also used to treat insomnia. The University of Maryland Medical Center discusses various ways that lavender has been used to improve sleep quality and calm agitation, promoting more restful sleep. Lavender is useful for treating chronic pain. AltMD states that chronic pain can be relieved by using lavender oil. When mixed with a carrier oil, lavender oil is safe for direct application onto sore muscles or painful areas of the body.
Warning
As with most essential oils, lavender oil has the potential to cause an adverse reaction in some individuals. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that pregnant or breastfeeding women avoid using lavender and reports that some people have experienced nausea, vomiting, headache, and chills after inhaling lavender or using it on the skin.
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