Lavender oil comes from the pretty purple Lavender (or Lavandula) plant which grows all around the world, from the rainy countryside of England to the scorching sunshine of southeast India. Known for its distinctive aroma, the oil these Lavender plants produce has been used by people for centuries in a variety of different capacities.
Its sweet, flowery scent is often used in perfumes or bathing products. It is also used by chefs in both sweet and savoury dishes where its subtle taste serves as a nice complement to other more prominent flavours.
Additionally, lavender oil has fantastic soothing qualities. It can be used on skin to reduce irritation and to soothe skin. As well as its physical benefits, the sweet smell of lavender oil can also help promote good mental health. Indeed, the Greeks and the Romans would use the smell to relax and unwind in the bath after a long day, helping to allay unwanted stress and tension.
So, what are some of the specific lavender oil uses in our century? Well, let’s focus on sleep to begin with. We all know that having a good night’s sleep is essential to enjoying a rich and fulfilling life. However, most of us – from time to time – will have experienced trouble sleeping. With the everyday stresses of work and family commitments, it’s no wonder so many people have trouble switching off, so to speak.
The good news is lavender oil can help you create a relaxing, stress-free ambience in the comfort of your own home – or bed, even. Try this: apply a couple of drops of peppermint oil to your pillow and bedding and see if you don’t sleep better. The calming aroma will remain throughout the night, helping soothe you to sleep. You can even add some to the soles of your feet for ultimate relaxation.
Okay, what else? As previously touched on, lavender oil is fantastic for skincare. Take pesky razor burn, for example: not only is it irritating, it also doesn’t look great. But what can be done about it? Well, by mixing in just one or two drops of lavender oil with your moisturiser you’ll find relief. Lavender oil can also soothe dry, damaged skin. Finally – if you want to really pamper yourself – you should try a lavender oil clay mask; this is sure to leave your face feeling totally refreshed and revitalised.
Lavender oil can also be used as a sweet, soothing air-freshener for your home, helping to rid rooms of unwanted smells caused by kids, pets and whatever else. As mentioned, Lavender oil is great for cooking – just a couple of drops can help soften citrus flavours or infuse dessert dishes. Top tip: try adding Lavender to banana or coconut (or both!) based desserts.
Lavender oil can also serve as an effective after-sun lotion, because we all know how irritated our skin is when we overdo it on holiday. These are just some of the many uses of lavender oil.
