Therapeutic Effects of Essential Oils and Lavender



Posted: Wednesday, January 05, 2011

by Jake Jarden
RelaxAndMeditate.net

Lavender oil is basically an essential oil. Distillation of flower-spikes of particular kind of lavender produces lavender oil. On the surface there are two different types of lavender oils, one is lavender spike oil, which is distilled from the herb called lavandula latifolia and the other known as lavender flower oil, which is not soluble in water and is a colorless liquid. lavender oil is not a pure compound in contrast to the other essential oils. Rather, it is a mixture of linalool, phytochemicals and linalyl acetate. There are many uses for this oil, the most common being as a therapeutic oil. Lavender oil has been used throughout history for the fabrication of perfumes. It has a unique scent which has a calming property and helps in aiding anxiety and enducing relaxation.

If you have sports-sprains or pains lavender oil can be diluted and applied directly on the skin with a light massage, which helps to relieve pain and muscle tension. In case of respiratory infection or cough, a vaporizer can be used along with lavender oil, or simply adding a few drops to a bowl of boiling water and inhaling the steam (with a towel over your head). Lavender oil is also believed to be an effective treatment for insomnia. If you are having trouble getting a good night sleep, try a relaxing lavender oil steam bath before bed, or using in an oil burner. If you work long days sitting at a desk in an office job and return home with aching neck and back, take few drops of lavender oil and gently massage your neck and back and take a nap. That should relax even The Hulk!

Lavender oils have cytophylactic properties, that is it encourages growth of new skin cells. Thus it is quite widely used in skin care products such as anti aging creams, moisturizers and wrinkle lifters. This miracle oil is also good news for adolescent girls and boys, as it is also effective against acne, eczema and sunburn. From now on you need not have to invest in expensive anti acne creams, which after all contain the same lavender oil again.

So the next time when you come home tired and restless after a hard day at the office or working out, just grab a bowl, pour in warm water and add 4-6 drops of lavender oil and soak your tired feet or hands in it and let it relax for 10-15 minutes.

Author Bio Jake Jarden publishes articles on a range of topics including massage therapy, Yoga, meditation, health and nutrition, and cures for common ailments such as sleep disorders. Read more of Jake's articles, including his latest, How to Choose the right Scented Candles and Essential Oils
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