8 Benefits of Using Lavender Oil for Health
Lavender oil, renowned for its soothing essence, is a cherished essential oil derived from the delicate flowers of the lavender plant. Through the meticulous process of steam distillation, its aromatic potency is harnessed, offering a myriad of benefits for both body and mind.
For centuries, lavender oil has been celebrated for its ability to induce relaxation, alleviate stress, and enhance sleep quality.
In recent years, lavender oil has emerged as a star ingredient in skincare formulations, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory prowess. These qualities make it an effective remedy for calming irritated skin, while its natural astringent properties work wonders in tightening and toning the skin, diminishing the signs of aging.
Moreover, lavender oil's antioxidant richness offers a shield against free radicals, safeguarding the skin from environmental aggressors and promoting a youthful glow. Beyond skincare, emerging research hints at its potential as a natural therapy for Alzheimer's disease and diabetes, further cementing its status as a holistic powerhouse for health and well-being.
Step into the fragrant embrace of lavender oil and unlock its transformative benefits, as nature's gift continues to enchant and elevate our journey to wellness.
# Reduce Stress and Improve Mood
Currently, there is a growing demand for lavender oil due to its distinctive ability to prevent nerve damage. Lavender has been a traditional remedy for neurological conditions like migraines, stress, anxiety, and depression, so it's promising to see recent research aligning with historical uses.
Several studies have examined the impact of this miraculous herb, particularly on anxiety and stress reduction, making it a potential sedative for patients undergoing surgery or anesthesia. Lavender oil has been found to alleviate anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances without causing any adverse side effects, drug interactions, or withdrawal symptoms.
In fact, the study noted no incidents of withdrawal symptoms or adverse side effects post-treatment. To promote relaxation and better sleep, it's recommended to place a diffuser next to your bed and diffuse lavender essential oil at night while reading or relaxing in the living room. Alternatively, it can also be applied topically behind the ears for a similar effect.
# Healthy skin and Hair
Lavender oil has gained popularity in recent times due to its exceptional ability to prevent nerve damage. Historically, lavender has been used to address neurological issues such as migraines, stress, anxiety, and depression, and it's encouraging to see current research validating these uses. Various studies have investigated the effects of this herb on stress and anxiety levels.
A 2019 study revealed that inhaling lavender is one of the most potent anti-anxiety oils, reducing perioperative anxiety and even acting as a potential sedative for patients undergoing surgery and anesthesia. In 2013, an evidence-based study published in the International Journal of Psychiatric Clinical Practice found that taking 80mg capsules of lavender essential oil supplementation significantly alleviated anxiety, sleep disturbances, and depression. There were no withdrawal symptoms or adverse side effects observed post-treatment.
Another study in 2012 conducted on 28 high-risk postpartum women revealed that they had significantly lower rates of postpartum depression and anxiety after a 4-week aromatherapy treatment of spreading lavender at home. Lavender has also demonstrated its ability to improve symptoms of PTSD. The second phase of a trial published in Phytomedicine found that 80mg of lavender oil daily helped reduce depression by 33% and significantly improved sleep disturbances, mood swings, and overall well-being in 47 individuals with PTSD.
To relieve stress and promote better sleep, placing a diffuser next to your bed and diffusing essential oils while sleeping or relaxing in the family room is a recommended practice. Alternatively, it can be applied topically behind the ear for a similar effect.
# Treatment of Burn
Lavender oil has been utilized for centuries to combat various infections and bacterial and fungal conditions due to its well-known antibacterial properties. This benefit of lavender has been confirmed by nearly 100 studies conducted over time. Its antimicrobial compounds are responsible for speeding up the healing process of burns, cuts, scrapes, and wounds.
A study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine focused on the enhanced antimicrobial potency of lavender when blended with other essential oils such as clove, cinnamon, rosemary, and tea tree oil. According to the study, a 1:1 combination of these oils was most effective against common causes of fungal and bacterial infections such as Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus, which can lead to respiratory pneumonia and skin fungus.
# Supports Brain Function
Lavender offers more than just mood-enhancing properties for the nervous system. Studies have revealed that it might be a promising natural remedy for Alzheimer's disease. In animal studies conducted on rats and mice, inhaling lavender oil vapors was found to reduce oxidative stress in the brain and improve cognitive impairment. Another animal study published in the Swiss journal Molecules in 2012 suggested that lavender could be a potential treatment option for neurological disorders like stroke. Researchers suggest that the neuroprotective effects of lavender are attributed to its antioxidant characteristics.
# Improves Sleep and Insomnia
According to a study, the use of aromatherapy by women led to a significant improvement in their sleep quality when compared to the control group. Studies like this one have shown that lavender oil possesses properties that help with sleep and calming. Inhaling lavender has been proven to reduce sleep disturbances, improve sleep quality and duration, combat insomnia, and improve overall health.
Moreover, lavender does not cause any adverse side effects, which is uncommon among most tranquilizers. In fact, it promotes physical and mental well-being. To enhance the quality of your sleep, you can spray lavender oil in your bedroom before going to bed or during sleep. Another effective way to use lavender oil is to put three to five drops directly on your neck, chest, and temples. Taking a healing bath with 15 drops of lavender and a cup of Epsom salts can also improve sleep and relax the body.
A combination of lavender oil, roman chamomile, and magnesium oil is an excellent blend to enhance sleep. Applying this mixture to the back of the neck and wrists can create a sense of calm and peacefulness.
# Helps in the Therapy of cancer
The use of lavender oil has been found to be helpful for cancer patients in dealing with stress, nausea, chronic pain, and depression. Because it enhances the immune system, elevates mood, promotes better sleep, and combats stress, it can be employed as a therapeutic aid. Massaging lavender oil onto the neck, chest, wrists, and temples can have a calming and soothing impact. If you are experiencing muscle or joint pain, or have pain at the injection site, applying two to three drops of lavender oil on the affected region can be beneficial. For reducing stress and anxiety and enhancing sleep quality, diffusing lavender oil or directly inhaling it from the bottle can be particularly beneficial before and after surgical and chemotherapy treatments.
# Treating Bug Bites
Research has indicated that lavender has the ability to repel mosquitoes for up to 8 hours. When mixed with other essential oils like lemongrass, individuals can make their own environmentally-friendly insect repellents.
Moreover, lavender oil's antimicrobial properties can help prevent infections resulting from insect bites.
# Treatment of Diabetes
Tunisian scientists are conducting a fascinating study to determine the effect of lavender on blood sugar and whether it can be used to naturally reverse diabetes. The results of a 15-day animal study conducted by the researchers were astounding. Lavender essential oil was found to protect the body from several symptoms of diabetes, including high blood sugar, metabolic disorders, weight gain, and depletion of antioxidants in the liver and kidneys. Additionally, the study found that lavender oil prevented fat peroxidation in the liver and kidneys caused by free radicals. To use lavender oil for diabetes, it can be applied topically on the neck and chest, diffused at home, or taken as a supplement.