Scent in the spotlight - Lavender

Did you know? Lavender is a flower but also a herb! Many people use it as a form of herb in teas and in products such as lotions. These plants bloom through August, ranging from pink to blue and white. There are over 30 species of lavender and they are a common decoration for livening up spaces with their bright colours.

Benefits of Lavender

One of the most popular scents that is well accepted by people of any gender, lavender has many powerful benefits that validates its recognition. It is commonly known for its ability to relieve stress and anxiety as well as to relax the mind. As a result, lavender essential oil is used in aromatherapy and for curbing insomnia. With the correct usage, it can be used to help cope with pain and relieve headache.

Apart from its ability to soothe the mind, lavender has great antiseptic and antioxidant properties as well. Applying lavender on skin for wounds and help to prevent bacteria growth. 

Uses of Lavender

Unlike many essential oils that are too concentrated for your skin, Lavender is safe for direct contact and can be applied on the skin. 

Here are some suggested uses of the lavender plant and its essential oil:

Lavender plant

1. Filling a bottle of lavender flowers with water and spraying the lavender-infused water on affected skin helps to relieve skin conditions such as eczema and acne.
2. Making lavender tea and then applying the mixture to your hair – helps in promoting a healthy scalp. The scent also helps to balance stress and anxiety levels.
3. Adding lavender flowers to your bath tub helps prevent inflammation and improve the quality of sleep.

Lavender essential oil

1. Drop the essential oil to pillow sheets or sleep wear to aid an easy sleep.
2. Diffuse lavender oil in the air to relieve tension from the body.
3. Using lavender infused products in a hot bath results in diffusion of the lavender scent, helping with aromatherapy.

References:

https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/lavender.html

https://draxe.com/lavender-oil-benefits/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/lavender-oil

http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/pure-lavender-oil.html

https://www.herbal-supplement-resource.com/lavender-oil.html

Neo Ann Qi