Lavandula Spp. is a herb that has been used for centuries in complementary medicine on its own or as an additive to other things. Traditionally, it is a fresh and calming herb that is extremely versatile believed to have sedative, carminative, anti-depressive, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Lavender has been cultivated for its flowers and oils and used both cosmetically and medicinally as a dried extract or as an essential oil. It contains more than 160 constituents!

         It can be used orally, topically or through inhalation.  Orally, lavender oil can be used for psychological conditions, including anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, nervousness and depression. It can also be used for gastrointestinal conditions like flatulence, upset stomach, nausea and vomiting. Topically it can be used for alopecia and as an insect repellent. Lavender essential oil can be used in aromatherapy for insomnia, agitation, depression, anxiety, stress, sleep and well-being. Below I explain 5 ways in which Lavender can be used in your homes. Do keep in mind that Lavender is high in volatile oils, so lavender essential oil should not be used internally!

1. Improve the quality of your sleep – Sprinkle a few drops of lavender essential oil directly on your pillow and bed linens. Alternatively, add 3-4 drops of lavender essential oil to your diffuser’s 30 minutes before bed.
2. Helps in the management of anxiety and depression – Add 5-6 drops in your diffuser while taking a bath for 15-20 mins. You may also add a couple drops of the essential oil into the hot water bath. The best time for this would be 30mins - 1 hour before bed. Alternatively, adding a couple drops of the essential oil to your wrists in the morning before embarking on a new day can be super uplifting. Lavender essential oil is great for those of you who are stressed and overworked as it helps to calm nerves and physical tension.
3. Digestive Aid – Add a few drops of the lavender essential oil on a washcloth and inhale it. It can also be enjoyed as a tea. Steep 1 teaspoon of lavender flowers and 1 teaspoon of chamomile flowers using water.  Not only can this be used to calm the digestive tract, but it is also great for restlessness, stress and tension that can show up as a “nervous tummy”.
4. Used for Hair growth – Mix Thyme, rosemary and lavender essential oils in a 1:1:1 ratio. Feel free to add a carrier oil like coconut oil or castor oil into the mix. Apply to both the scalp and hair and leave it in for about 2 hours. Wash it out only to be left with smooth, shiny hair! Try the new shampoo with both biotin and lavender for healthy and shiny hair!
5. Migraines and Pain – You can apply 2-3 drops of lavender essential oil to each temple and across the forehead. You can also apply a couple drops of lavender essential oil on acupuncture points and apply a bit of pressure to help with sub-acute neck or back pain.

      As outlined above, lavender oil is an oil of many talents! It is a great oil to keep in your home on a rainy day! Its relaxing fragrance leads to its therapeutic use in aromatherapy to help not only with emotional blockages but also physical complaints. Speak with your Naturopathic Doctor to see how Lavender can help you!