Therapeutic Uses Of Lavender Oil

People interested in treating the body naturally can turn to essential oils and aromatherapy. Essential oils produce therapeutic effects physically and emotionally. Patricia Davis writes in her book "Aromatherapy A-Z" that lavender has the most versatile uses of any essential oil. Native to the Mediterranean, lavender has been used therapeutically for thousands of years.

Treating Burns

Lavender works to treat burns on multiple fronts. Its therapeutic use for burns led Valerie Ann Worwood to write in her book "The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy" that lavender oil should be in every home's first aid kit. A natural antiseptic, lavender disinfects wounds and lessens the likelihood of infection. It also reduces pain. According to Worwood, lavender also promotes cell activity and regeneration. This promotes the skin's healing after suffering a burn and has the added benefit of reducing scarring.

Antibacterial and Antiviral

Help kill germs and bacteria with essential lavender oil. Lavender oil's therapeutic uses include treating cuts, scrapes and other wounds. Its antiseptic and antibiotic properties help to clean cuts, reduce infection and help the area to heal quickly.
Lavender oil's therapeutic benefits from its antiseptic and antibiotic properties extend beyond cuts and scrapes. Those suffering from bronchitis, cold or flu can benefit by adding lavender oil to their treatment, says Jeanne Rose, author of "375 Essential Oils & Hydrosols." A volatile compound -- meaning it evaporates into the air -- lavender can be inhaled to fight the bacteria and viruses causing sickness while also reducing the chance for a secondary infection. Add a few lavender oil drops to steaming water and inhale for the most effective results.

Improving Mental States

Essential lavender oil's therapeutic uses extend beyond the physical. It also helps improve people's emotional states. One way it does this is through its sedative properties. A natural therapeutic treatment for lowering tension and stress, lavender calms the body and mind. Jeanne Rose also says that essential lavender works effectively to improve mood and increase positive mental affect.