Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Benefits of Lavender, Part DEUX


Today, lavender is most commonly used for anxiety, depression, mental exhaustion, insomnia, scrapes and wounds, digestive problems, headaches, skin problems and women's health problems. In addi­tion to this, lavender can be used to treat exhaustion, heat exposure, fevers, aches and pains, over­ex­ertion, jet lag, rashes, sprains, sunburn, sunstroke, bruises and burns. It can also be used as a disin­fectant and insect repellant. Lavender is an antiseptic, natural antibiotic, sedative, detoxifier.

Anxiety and depression. The essential oil of lavender has a calming, sedative, and anti­convulsive ef­fect. It can also increase the effectiveness of other relaxants.

Insomnia. A study conducted at the University of Leicester in England showed that the use of lavender essential oil is just as effective in promoting sound sleep as traditional medication. In fact, many British hospitals offer their patients lavender pillows to help with sleeplessness.

Scrapes and wounds. Lavender essential oil has very powerful antiseptic properties. Applying it to wounds can not only increase cell growth causing the wound to heal faster, but it also decreases the appearance of scars. The oils anti­microbial action protects scrapes and wounds from infection, while allowing them heal.

Digestive problems. Lavender has also been endorsed by Germany's Commission E to treat all sorts of stomach and digestive disorders. It soothes the lining of the digestive tract and promotes the secre­tion of bile, which helps the body digest fats. In addition to this, lavender can also relieve gas pres­sure and constipation.

Until next time.....Got Lavender?