Discussion on Lavender

[Lavender]

I wrote out my notes for lavender last night to type out today & left them at home. :( I will post my two favourite links on lavender & the rest tonight.

Lavender is one of my favourite herbs. The scent is so soothing and calming. Lavender is what I call a good all-around herb. I love herbs that have multiuses.

http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/l/lavend13.html

http://www.holisticonline.com/Herbal-Med/_Herbs/h257.htm

[Faery-Wings]

I am here, and I am reading :)

I'll post some oil information tomorrow. I *love* lavender essential oil- one of my favortes!

[Yvonne Belisle]

I think of my grandmother when I smell it she had sachets of it all over the house!

[Lavender]

Lavender (Lavandula Augustifolia)

I've heard the comment that the scent of lavender reminds people of their grandmothers a lot! :) Lavender's scent is a classic scent, invoking thoughts of old time charm and English gardens. At least, that's how I see lavender.

Though the whole plant can be used, the flowers of the lavender plant has the strongest scent & most oils. The flowers of the early blooms are harvested & that gives the best quality oil, containing a higher amount of esthers. The best time for harvesting lavender flowers for drying is on a nice dry morning. After the dew has evaporated but before it gets too hot. Cut the spikes about 6 inches below the flower head. Lay them in the shade on brown paper or a mat. Pick the stalks when the flower heads are just opened. You can tie them in bunches & hang them up to dry. The scent will last a nice long time.

The uses for lavender are many. The most popular use for lavender is for it's calming effects. Lavender & chamomile tea is very relaxing & calming. When used in sachets, lavender will keep moths away. The oil of lavender has been used in burns & to heal cuts & wounds, take away your headaches, even soothe insect stings. Lavender is also good for congestion from colds if used in steam inhalation.

Lavender water is a good skin tonic for acne prone skin because of the natural antibacterial properties. Lavender will promote healing & regeneration of skin cells.

Lavender is not recomended for use for pregnant women. But the oil can be mixed with a carrier oil & used as a massage during labour. It will help soothe the mother & aid in the contractions.

I love lavender...it's one of the oils that I carry with me all the time. I dilute it to 10% & carry it in my bag. Lavender neat is fine to use but I find it drying on it's own.

Lavender is associated with the element Air and the direction East. It is calming and beautiful, opening the heart and clears the mind.

[Nina]

My 2 cents worth:

Lavender is the queen of essential oils for me. It can be used directly on the skin, and it was the oil I annointed myself with when I dedicated myself to this path. I use in it baths, a drop on a hankerchief uunder my pillowcase helps me sleep, it sooths bad tempers (well, mine, anyway!) and I use it in an oil-burner when I'm doing my evening Yoga to make sure I relax and let the stresses of the day go away.

Planting lavender plants around tomato plants keeps whitefly away, and attracts insect that will pollinate your tomato flowers and give you loads of fruit!

There you go, my tiny input!

[Ravensnest]

Here's the information I wrote up on Lavender to put on my site under Essential Oils Information:

Essential Oils Information and Uses
Here you'll find a brief description of essential oils and their uses.
Disclaimer: Information provided is not designed to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any illness, or injury and is provided for informational purposes only. Always consult a medical doctor, or other alternative medical practitioner when suffering from any disease, illness or injury or before attempting a traditional or folk remedy. Keep all products safely away from children. As with any natural product, they can be toxic if misused.

Allspice (Pimenta officinalis) This is a vitalizing stimulant. It has been used to treat a variety of ailments including depression, arthritis, fatigue, flatulence and indigestion to name a few. Wonderful for use in potpourris. This oil may also irritate the skin and mucous membranes so be careful when using. With it's spicy scent, sort of a combination of clove, cinnamon, and a hint of pepper allspice blends well with Ginger, Frankincense, lemon and orange, geranium, lavender, ylang ylang, patchouli and orris.

Anise (Pimpinella anisum, Anisum officinalis) Extracted from the seeds of the Pimpinella anisum plant. It is an expectorant, can temporarily relieve a bronchial cough. Can also be used for insomnia. Anise is an aphrodisiac and a good for treatment of migraines. Anise has a black licorice scent which helps it blend well with fennel, petitgrain, and rosewood, amyris, bay cardamon, caraway, cedarwood, coriander, and mandarin. Middle perfume note.

Balsam Peru (Myroxylon balsamum var. pererae) A natural fixative, often used as a base note in blends to help stretch the fragrance. Use on chaffed skin to ease the discomfort. Balsam Peru has a warm rich, earthy, vanilla like scent, very exotic and used as an anchor in perfume blends. Base perfume note.

Basil, Sweet (Osimum basilicum) Distilled from Osimum basilieum, it increases concentration, allows for mental focus and clarity. Good for those with poor memories, fatigue, colds, migraines and other headaches. Can be stupefying in large doses so use with caution. Do Not Use While Pregnant. Soothing to insect bites. With basil's warm licorice like fragrance it blends well with bergamot, lavender, neroli, and verbena, clary sage, geranium, marjoram and black pepper. Top perfume note.

Bay (Pimenta racemosa) Acts as an appetite stimulant and can be used to settle stomach pains. Good for general aches and pains as well as for rheumatic pains. Uplifting. A good scalp and hair tonic and for respiratory disorders and depression. Can be stimulating to the memory. Bay has a spicy scent and blends well with rose, cedarwood, and eucalyptus, coriander, ginger, juniper berry, lavender, lemon, marjoram, orange, rosemary, thyme and ylang ylang.

Benzoin (styrax benzoin, S. tonkinensis) A resin from the Styrax tonkinensis trees. Often used as a fixative to help scents hold better. In a therapeutic bath it can provide relief from insomnia. Soothes, stimulates, comforts and warms. Add to carrier oil/cream for protecting skin against chapping or cracking. This is also known as Friars Balsam. Other related oils; Balsam of Tolu, Balsam of Peru, Styrax. Base perfume note.

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) From the citrus aurantium var bergamina. It's an antiseptic, anti depressant, refreshing, and uplifting. Inhaled it relaxes the nervous system and acts as a digestive. Can also be used to treat acne, eczema, seborrhea, anxiety, and depression. Relaxes and refreshes, is good for confidence building. Use in a vaporizer to disperse unpleasant odors. It is also used as a flavoring in Earl Grey Tea. This is photosensitive so do not use prior to prolonged exposure to the sun. A bergapten free Bergamot is available which reduces the susceptibility to photosensitizing. With it's warm lemony, citrus scent bergamot blends well with chamomile, lavender, neroli, and geranium, coriander, cypress, juniper, and ylang ylang.. Top perfume note.

Birch (Betula alba) An analgesic, good for arthritis, muscular pain and soreness as well as rheumatism. An effective cleanser, as it drains the accumulation of fluids and toxins. Can help to clear the skin and help with psoriasis and eczema. With it's woodsy scent it blends well with patchouli, vetiver and copal. Do not use while pregnant.

Black Pepper (Piper nigrum) A warming oil during the cold winter season. It has a pungent aroma that stimulates and tones. Ideal for massaging on abdomen and muscles. Use in pre-sports or dance rubs to help maintain suppleness. One of the earliest used spices, it is a muscle relaxant, aphrodisiac and has some interesting effects when used in perfume blends. It's spicy pungent fragrance blends well with rose, rosemary, marjoram and lavender but, should only be used in small amounts. Black pepper can be a skin irritant so you should use it with care. Middle perfume note.

Cajeput (Melaleuca cajeputi) Extracted from Melaleuca cajuputi it inhibits the spread of bacteria. Improves mood and increases resistance to infections. A good "unwinding" oil. Can also be used in a steam inhalation to help clear the nasal passages and is helpful when treating oily skin and spots. Cajeput is a stimulant and an irritant that should be used with care. Do NOT swallow. With it's sweet camphor like scent it blends well with bergamot, clove, lavender and rosewood, birch, cardamon, geranium, myrtle, nutmeg and thyme. Top perfume note.

Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora) Icy to the skin this is an analgesic, antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, diuretic and stimulant. Good for reducing inflammation. Can be used as an insect repellent. It is balancing, stimulating, toning and cooling. Other uses include as a deodorant, soothing agent, skin conditioner, aphrodisiac and muscle relaxant. Should be used sparingly and completely avoided by those suffering with epilepsy and pregnant women. Has a fresh clean menthol like fragrance and blends well with bergamot, lemon, orange, rosemary and eucalyptus, mandarin, and ylang ylang.

Cassia Used to stimulate the pancreas. Also used to flavor a variety of foods. toothpaste, mouthwash and chewing gums. Cassia is very irritating to the skin and can cause an allergic reaction. This cinnamon like fragrance works well with any of the spice or citrus oils as well as black pepper, geranium and vanilla. Middle perfume note.

Cedarwood (Juniperus mexicana scheide, Cedrus atlantica, Juniperus virginiana) Virginia or Texas cedarwoods are most commonly used for aromatherapy as an antiseptic and fungicidal. They reduce anxiety and tension. Good for dandruff, hair loss, dermatitis, eczema, fungal infections, and ulcers. Sedative with grounding characteristics which make this a good choice for using in yoga or meditation. Atlas cedarwood is a highly prized wood that has been used throughout history for it's strength and aroma. It helps to clear the breathing passages and is used in hair and skin care products. Do Not use while pregnant. A warm woody scent cedarwood blends well with patchouli, vetiver, sandalwood, bergamot, cinnamon, frankincense, rose, and rosemary. Base perfume note.

Chamomile, German (Matricaria chamomilla or M. recutia) An absolute, German chamomile also known as blue chamomile or chamomile matricaria. The blue color comes from azulene which is formed during the distillation of the oil. Used as a muscle relaxant, soothing agent, skin conditioner and aphrodisiac. Azulene also promotes new skin cell regeneration. Especially helpful in skincare preparations. Has a fruity scent that blends well with bergamot, jasmine, neroli, clary sage, rose, palmarosa, and ylang ylang. Middle perfume note.

Chamomile, Roman (Chamaemelum nobile or Anthemis nobilis) Has a strong soothing effect on the mind and body. Both the Roman and German varieties are wonderful for protecting dry skin and have many uses such as nerve, headache, insomnia, and menstrual disorders. The Roman variety is also a comforting oil when used during high pollen count days (with exception to those with ragweed allergies). One of the few essential oils that can be used on inflamed skin conditions. With its' fruity scent it blends well with lavender, bergamot, jasmine, neroli, clary sage, eucalyptus, and rosemary. Middle perfume note.

Cinnamon (bark & leaf) (Cinnamomum zeylanicum, C verum, Laurus cimmamomum) An anti inflammatory, aphrodisiac, skin conditioner, and deodorant. Cinnamon warms and stimulates. It's a strong antiseptic, with a cleansing effect. It's warm spicy scent blends well with caraway, citrus oils, clove, myrtle, nutmeg, frankincense, and thyme. Can cause skin irritation; moderate dermal toxicity. Middle perfume note.

Clary Sage (Salvia sclerea) From the flowering herb of Salcia sclarea. Balancing, calming and toning. It soothes, relaxes and warms. Uplifting to the spirit. Known as a mood elevator. Contains a hormone like compound very similar to estrogen which helps to regulate hormonal balance. Massage on muscles and on abdomen before and during menstruation to help with cramps. Induces a feeling of well being. Reduces stress and tension and can provoke dramatic and colorful dreams. Good for oily hair and skin, dandruff and treatment of wrinkles. Aphrodisiac. Promotes restful sleep. Do not use during pregnancy. Do not drink alcohol or drive when using this oil. It's mystical herbal scent blends well with cedarwood, citrus oils, lavender, bergamot, lime and geranium. Top/middle perfume note.

Clove (bud & leaf) (Syzygium aromaticum, Eugenia caryophyllata, E. aromaticia, E. caryophyllus) Used in many folk remedies for toothaches. Also as an antiseptic and stimulating oil useful in mouthwash and gargle. Could also be effective as a mosquito repellent. Effective for rheumatism, arthritis and mouth sores. Highly irritating to the skin, should always be diluted and used with extreme caution.. a little goes a long way. Do not use during pregnancy. It's spicy aroma blends well with amber, basil, black pepper, cinnamon, citronella, grapefruit, lemon, nutmeg, orange, peppermint, rosemary, and rose. Middle perfume note.

Coriander (Coriandum sativum) A muscle relaxant, deodorant, soothing agent, aphrodisiac. Makes a good massage blend to relieve stiffness and muscle ache. In the bath is is refreshing and stimulating. Helps relieve fatigue. Improves mental clarity and memory. Alleviates muscle spasms. It's sweet smelling spicy fragrance blends well with bergamot, lemon, jasmine, black pepper, cinnamon, citronella, cypress, ginger, neroli and orange. Due to it's slight toxicity this oil should be used sparingly. Top perfume note.

Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) Circulatory stimulant. Deodorizer, astringent, anti-spasmodic, warming. Balances energy deficiencies and can be used to treat cellulite, edema, water retention, asthma, and foot perspiration. Refreshes, restores and tones. An astringent oil useful for refreshing and caring for oily and blemished skin. Good for massaging on the abdomen during menstruation and where there is cellulite. It's smoky woody fragrance blends well with lavender, sandalwood, bergamot, clary sage, juniper berry, lemon, orange, rosemary, and pine. Flammable so store and use with caution. Middle perfume note.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) Stimulant for the respiratory system. Strong antiseptic, used widely in baths and massage oils during the cold season. Blend oil in chest rubs and use in a vaporizer to keep the air germ free in sick rooms. Deters mosquitoes. Cools emotions, aids concentration, effective treatment for fevers. It is also an insect repellent. Do not swallow or use during pregnancy. It's camphor like scent blends well with peppermint, coriander, juniper berry, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, vetiver, clary sage, and thyme. Top perfume note.

Evening Primrose (Centhera biennis) Unscented oil that is very beneficial in the treatment of female related problems such as menstrual cramps, PMS, and menopause. Can also be used to treat acne, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Rich in gamma-lanolin acid, a substance much like the body's own chemical metabolism regulator, vitamins and minerals. Excellent for face and body massage blends, especially to combat dry, devitalized skin and eczema or prematurely aged skin. Also an excellent massage oil when mixed with lavender for treating anxious children. Do not use while pregnant.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare, R. officinale, Anethum foeniculum) Antiseptic, antispasmodic, diuretic, insecticide, toning and stimulating. Useful for treating digestive problems, menopausal problems, obesity, constipation, and nausea. Good as a breast firming massage oil as well as in treatment for cellulite. An excellent body cleanser, may rid the body of toxins from alcohol and excessive eating, good for hangovers. Can be a skin irritant. Do not use on young children. Do not use if pregnant. Do not use if you have epilepsy. It's sweet licorice scent blends well with basil, lavender, lemon, rose, sandalwood, geranium, and rosemary. Top/middle perfume note.

Fir Needle (Abies alba) Antiseptic, expectorant and sedative. May have a beneficial effect on chest conditions such as fluid and mucous. Helps with muscle aches. Can be a skin irritant so dilute well. A fresh spicy scent, reminiscent of the fir forests and fresh cut Christmas tree it blends well with basil, cedarwood and frankincense. Middle perfume note.

Frankincense (Boswellia thurifera or B.carteri) Also known as "Olibanum". Precious oil used since Egyptian times. Inhale to treat bronchitis, colds, and sinusitis. Stimulating, toning and grounding. Used for centuries, burnt on alters and in temples. "Creates a spiritual atmosphere". A comforting oil, by slowing down breathing and controlling tension it helps to focus the mind. Excellent for toning and caring for mature, aging skin (may possibly have some rejuvenating qualities). Promotes restful sleep and aids in meditation. A highly effective cosmetic oil that may be used to treat skin inflammation and to smooth the appearance of wrinkles. Do not use while pregnant. It's woody, spicy, balsamic aroma blends well with lavender, basil, black pepper, geranium, grapefruit, orange, patchouli, sandalwood and myrrh. Base perfume note.

Geranium (Pelargonium graveolen) Calming, balancing, and uplifting. A skin refresher and astringent. An excellent astringent oil for all skin types. Used in skin care products for both it's fragrance and cleansing properties. useful for depression, nervous tension and anxiety. Antiseptic when used topically for wounds, eczema, inflamed or irritated skin and acne. Useful as an insect repellent. Soothes itching skin. Helps clear the body of toxins which may be helpful with addictions. Blends well with other florals and makes a wonderful room freshener when blended with bergamot and lavender. Do not use during pregnancy. It's fresh floral sweet rose like fragrance blends well with basil, carrot seed, jasmine, lavender, rose, cedarwood, citronella, clary sage, grapefruit, lime, neroli, orange, petitgrain, rosemary and sandalwood. Middle to top perfume note.

Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) An aphrodisiac, astringent. Comforting oil and for massaging on the muscles. Good for nausea and sickness. Improves mental clarity and memory. Warming to the body and blended with orange makes a wonderful warming bath in winter. It's spicy scent blends well with cinnamon, coriander, clove, cajeput, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, orange, verbena, lemon, lime, myrtle, rosemary, patchouli, and spearmint. Top perfume note.

Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis, S. odora) Useful for bee stings, a calming and warming oil. Supposed to encourage communication and meditation.

Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi, C. racemosa) Digestive stimulant, drainer, lymphatic stimulant. Good for cellulitis, obesity, and water retention. Helps with nervous exhaustion, relieves congested and oily skin, having a toning effect on both skin and tissues. Helps relieve fatigue. Do not use Grapefruit on the skin in direct sunlight due to it's photo sensitivity. Do not use during pregnancy. It's fresh citrus scent blends well with other citrus oils, especially bergamot and orange, cedarwood, frankincense, and lavender. Top perfume note.

Jasmine Absolute (Jasminum officinale or J. Grandiflorum) Considered the "king" of flower oils it has always had a reputation as an aphrodisiac. Emotionally warming, relaxes, soothes, uplifts and helps self confidence. Good for stress and general anxiety. An antidepressant, antiseptic, emollient, and sedative. Perfect skincare oil, excellent for hot, dry skin. Use only in small quantities. It's sensual scent blends well with all floral absolutes, bergamot, frankincense, rose, orange, patchouli, and sandalwood.

Juniper (Juniperus communis) Energizing, astringent, skin detoxifier, deodorant, soothing agent. Psychologically good for low energy, anxiety, and weakness. Also beneficial physically for arthritis, rheumatism, sore muscles, acne, ulcers and varicose veins. Tones and stimulates, an antiseptic and astringent oil for bath and massage where there is cellulite. Reputed to strengthen the immune system. Do not use when pregnant and do not use if you have any type of kidney or inflammatory problems. It's fresh woody aroma blends well with cypress, clary sage, lavender, frankincense, bergamot, and sandalwood. Middle perfume note.

Lavender (Lavendula augustifolia, L. officinalis, L. vera) The most versatile and useful oil around. A must have for any home. Relaxes, soothes, restores and balances your body and mind. Great for nervous anxiety, insomnia, melancholy, fear and stress. Calms or stimulates according to your bodies needs. Excellent for refreshing tired muscles, feet and head. Add a drop to the pillow for a peaceful sleep. Treats burns and reduces scarring. Lavender's uses are truly endless and too numerous to mention all making this a definite MUST have. Lavender is one of the only essential oils that does not have to be diluted before using. Do not use while pregnant. It's floral herbal scent blends well with numerous oils including bergamot, clove, rosemary, eucalyptus, patchouli, clary sage, rose, jasmine, chamomile, citronella, lemon, and pine. Middle to top perfume note.

Lavender and Tea Tree are probably the two eo's I would tell everyone they should have in their homes. I like to make a balm using them both for bug bites and skin irritations. Instantly stops it! Wonderful oil. Though I'm not one of those that loves the fragrance of Lavender.. I kinda don't but, it's a wonderful oil I would never run out of!
Dottie
Ravens Nest Incense & Oils
http://ravensnestincense.com

[Hope]

I LOVE lavender!!!!!

I have a silk eye pillow filled with lavender and it is so soothing and relaxing. I have a lavender plant on my desk at work to keep me centered.

I also love to put a few drops in my foot bath it is so relaxing and the smell ummmm....ok I have to sit quiet and smile now;):)

love
hope

[Lavender]

I love walking by my herb garden on my way out to work each morning. I always walk by one of my lavenders & pick a sprig to carry with me all day. I love the scent of it - can't wait until it blooms again. *sigh!*

[Faery-Wings]

I had been meaning to add to this discussion all week. Time is just passing through my fingers lately.

Anyway, I just wanted to add that lavender is one of my favorite oils to use too. Just like many of you, I put a drop or two on a pillowcase to help me sleep. I have also put a few drops into a humidifier in my room as well as in my kids' room. My kids (3 and 5) also get "Nightmare Spray" to help keep the bad dreams at bay. It is water and a drop of lavender in a spray bottle!

Lavender is sooo relaxing and I use it in burners in my house when things get tense and when I have playgroup at my house too. I have used in neat for pimples and rubbed into my temples for a tension headache.

And it works great on scarring! My husband had carpal tunnel surgery on both wrists 4 years ago. One one incision he rubbed lavender and sweet almond oil and the other he gave up on. To this day you can see which one he used the oil on.

Sorry this is so late;)

Chris

[KyGreenWitch]

Wildchild -

Thank you so much for the information. I'm gathering all my stuff together and planning out my gardens for this year, and the info you supplied is most helpful.

Blessings,

:heartthro

[crickett]

i use dried lavender, mixed with rose petals and chammomile in my bath, i grind them in a coffee grinder, wrap in two coffee filters (one breakes to easy) close with a rubber band, and throw in a really hot bath to steep, its great for relaxing your muscles before bed, or if you have ms like me,and the hot watercramps you up, its makes a hot bath enjoyable again :thumbsup:

[Lavender]

For the adventurous types who want to try growing your lavender from seeds. I got this info from a gardener friend of mine.

Freeze the seeds you want to plant for 2-7 days. Use a starter mix with no peat but something with good drainage, add some vermiculite.

Cover the seeds really lightly with soil. Keep warm for 2-3 weeks. If this doesn't work, lower temp. to 5-10 deg. C. for 2 weeks, then raise it again.

[Silver Venus]

Thank you sooo much for starting this discussion! I wish id found it earlier!
Thanks everyone for your great inputs and advice too!

I cant think of anything else more to add except that its always been one of my big time favourite herbs and essential oils and this year Im using it more than ever with my pregnancy as its so safe and such a brilliant all round oil, and will be using it in labour as my love is going to massage it into my lower back to help with the pain during childbrith :D Cant wait!

[Flaire-FireStar]

Lavender water is a good skin tonic for acne prone skin because of the natural antibacterial properties. Lavender will promote healing & regeneration of skin cells.

That's cool! I didn't know lavender was so handy. :) I'm glad I went out and got myself some oil a few weeks ago now. *lol*

Didn't know you could place it directly on the skin either..:huh:

[Lamoondove]

Just want to say i have enjoyed this thread and found loads of info i was looking for ,, Thanx so much !! :)

[alexx]

Just a quick addition - lavender is fantastic for minor burns where the skin is not broken. Make a compress with ice-cold water with a few drops, of even rub lavender gently into the skin neat - it helps to prevent scarring and infection.

[FeatherGoblinglimmer]

I find if I rub it on my temples when i have a headache it dulls it or gets rid of it completely. It is also great when you cant sleep, put some essential oil on your pillow, or a sachet uder you pillow, it works a treat.:)