Introduction:
Lavender is a fragrant flower used for multiple purposes throughout Europe and other countries. The powder of lavender flowers is widely used for a variety of beauty products like face packs, bath blends, soaps, lotions, shampoos, and more. Apart from beauty products, it is also used for food products like bakery products, cakes, desserts, etc.
Lavender oil comes from the lavender plant which is widely used in skin products, aroma oils, or massage oils. About 400 varieties of lavender species are there with various scents and aromas.
Uses and benefits of Lavender powder
Lavandula angustifolia or Lavendar is the popular Mediterranean plant. Lavender powder or oil have also medicinal or herbal properties and is used for multiple purposes. Although there is not much scientific evidence, it is used for multiple conditions like stress, depression, and insomnia. Antifungal or anti-bacterial properties of lavender are also useful in many ways.
Lavender oil is widely used in aromatherapy for its relaxing effect and fragrance. Apart from oil, lavender is also used in tea to treat symptoms of depression or anxiety.
- Multiple uses and benefits on skin
Lavender oil can be used on the skin in multiple ways. If you mix it with a carrier oil, then you can use it as a lotion. It is good to massage with hands for wrinkles and dry skin. A massage with lavender oil reduces pain, and inflammation and its antifungal properties also prevent fungi or bacterial growth. The lavender essential oil is also popular as a home remedy to reduce burns and inflammation.
It is effective on eczema and dry skin. Talcum powder with lavender is also refreshing to use in hot weather conditions.
- Hair health improvement
It is good to mix lavender oil with a carrier oil and massage on your scalp for best results. It stimulates hair growth and controls hair fall. Regular use gives you thick and beautiful hair. Its antibacterial properties help prevent bacteria, dandruff, and lice from your scalp. A good head massage with lavender oil helps you relax, destress and rejuvenate. Hair masks are also available in the market which promotes and improve hair.
- Aromatherapy uses and benefits
Lavender oil can be used in multiple ways. You can add a few drops of the oil to your shampoo and enjoy the fragrance. It is refreshing and calming. The compound present in lavender called linalool is effective to reduce blood pressure and has calming effects which reduce anxiety or hypertension. Inhaling lavender is also found effective to reduce menstrual pain when used for 30 mins consecutively for 3 days.
Reduce pain in children
A study in Iran on 48 children between 6-12 years of age, was carried out by the researchers of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences to determine the effectiveness of Lavandula angustifolia essential oil. It was to determine the effectiveness of lavender aromatherapy against pain after tonsil removal. Alongside lavender, the other group was given only painkillers.
The frequency of acetaminophen use and awakening due to pain was monitored for a couple of days with the pain intensity. Although there were not any significant differences kids using lavender were found to use acetaminophen less frequently. Tylenol or paracetamol is also called Acetaminophen. Thus, it needs more research to prove that lavender can be used as an effective painkiller in special cases like surgery.
Precautions:
It is always advised to use a carrier oil for best results and avoid using it directly or in high quantities. Many people are allergic to essential oils, so a patch test is always recommended. It is also recommended to avoid eye contact and use it carefully. If accidentally it comes in contact with your eyes, wash it thoroughly to avoid problems.
Conclusion
Although there are no regulations or quality standards by FDA for essential oils, try to check and purchase from a verified or well-known supplier or brand. These oils may not be medically effective to treat mental disorders but help manage your mental or stressful conditions. It is always good to take medical assistance for any further treatment for specific health conditions.
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By Amrita Vishwas
Date: 27/06/2022