Lavender is an herb that was originally grown in the Mediterranean but now grows in Europe, Australia and the United States. It has been used for centuries and offers a wealth of benefits. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lavender is widely valued for its scent and sedative effects. It also helps to treat wounds and even fight depression and anxiety. However, lavender should only be used with the supervision of a physician.
Sedative
Lavender has sedative and calming effects that be useful in treating a number of ailments. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, folklore has told of pillows being packed with lavender flowers to help people rest easier and improve insomnia. In addition, the sedative effects are also useful in treating someone who suffers from anxiety or agitation. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that people often feel more relaxed after receiving a massage with lavender. Also, according to the medical center, lavender has been found useful in treating agitation in dementia patients, although the benefit needs further study for confirmation.
Anti-Depressive
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, lavender is commonly used to relieve depression. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, small studies have indicated that the lavender scent has the ability to uplift the mood. This may be enhanced when lavender is used during a touch massage. The body apparently releases endorphins as a response to the massage, and the scent of lavender helps to enhance this experience, thus, uplifting the mood of a depressed individual. In addition, adding lavender flower to scent pillows and placing them in drawers and closets can help to put the scent on clothing, which can also improve the mood.
Antibacterial and Pain Relief
The lavender plant has antibacterial benefits and can be useful for treating wounds, cuts and scrapes, although it is not considered a replacement for medical treatments. The plant can be made into essential oil, which is useful as a topical application for wounds, cuts and scrapes. In addition, lavender holds benefits with pain relief. In fact, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lavender has even held benefits with controlling postoperative pain in minor cases.
Lavender should never be applied directly to an open wound because it can cause irritation. Instead, try applying the lavender to a bandage and wrapping it around the wound.
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