We all have many doubts when we listen to someone close (or read opinions) about the benefits of this or that beauty product of natural origin. And it is impossible not to wonder if it really is as good and effective as they say or there is a lot of urban legend behind it. We, who are very skeptical about these things (it is what this profession has) have proposed to investigate to clarify your doubts and ours and this is what we have discovered about lavender essential oil , one of the most defenders of it.
Where does lavender essential oil come from?
You are probably familiar with lavender plants because they are everywhere and they smell wonderful. The essential oil is obtained from the flowers themselves, those that have such a characteristic purple hue and spike shape. Remember that essential oils are highly concentrated and some of them are better diluted. Read the packaging first.
What is lavender essential oil for?
Lavender essential oil is the most basic of all in aromatherapy because it has a very mild and clean smell. Relaxing and calming properties are attributed to it and it is a good ally when it comes to relaxing and sleeping better.
It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is used to heal wounds and burns and also to treat insect bites, dermatitis, dandruff, fungi and warts. It is antispasmodic, so it can also be used to treat minor throat and bronchial infections; it is anti-inflammatory, regenerating and very suitable for acne problems. It enhances the effects of other oils, therefore it is a good travel companion for almost all of them.
How can lavender essential oil be used?
Lavender essential oil, like tea tree oil, can be used directly on the skin without diluting it, but before applying it in large areas it is better to check that we do not have an allergy by putting it in a smaller area and waiting to see the reaction of our skin.
- For wrinkles you can add a few drops to your moisturizer or get an oil specifically formulated for this and use it as a serum.
- To treat pimples , whether they are acne or bites, put a few drops on a cotton ball and apply it directly for a few minutes.
- To relieve a headache, rub your temples with a mixture of 10 drops of lavender essential oil, 2 of peppermint and argan oil. Or even easier, put a few drops on a cold compress and apply it on the area of the head that hurts.
- To treat insomnia you can make a spray with which to spray your pillow every night. Simply put a few drops in a spray container and mix them with the amount of water you prefer, depending on the aroma you want to obtain. Another option is to place a handkerchief or cotton with a few drops inside the pillowcase or add the oil in the bathtub with hot water to give yourself a relaxing bath.
- To treat mild colds and bronchitis you can use it to do steam baths and inhalations with a few drops diluted in very hot water.
- To clean mattresses and carpets . Yes, it even has this utility. You have to mix it with bicarbonate, let it act for a little while and then vacuum.
Is it necessary to take any precautions when using it?
As it can cause drowsiness, it is contraindicated for people with low blood pressure. It is also not recommended for use in children or pregnant women as a precaution.
And a recommendation to finish …
When you go to get an essential oil, be it lavender or any other ingredient, go to commercial brands and buy it in a parapharmacy, herbalist or specialized place . It is never advisable to buy cosmetics in craft markets because they do not usually undergo the same sanitary or quality controls as commercial brands.
