Top 5 Benefits of Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender essential oil (lavandula angustifolia) is extremely versatile and one of the most popular essential oils in the world. Linalool and linalyl acetate are some of main components of the oil. These naturally occurring ingredients are found in many flowers and spice plants.

These are just some of the reasons why lavender essential oil is a must-have health and beauty product:

      1. Aids sleep

Lavender essential oil is commonly known as a natural sleep enhancer. Many studies have shown it to increase slow-wave sleep (deep sleep) and slow down the activity of the nervous system, resulting in a feeling of calm and relaxation.

If you struggle with getting a good night’s sleep try Miaroma Relaxing Lavender Sleep Mist (£7, 100ml) with honeysuckle and chamomile. It is 100% natural and comes in a handy spray bottle so you can spritz it on your pillow or around your bedroom to improve your sleep quality.

      2. Promotes healthy skin complexion

Lavender essential oil is a natural antioxidant that works to protect you from free radicals (chemicals, pollutants, toxins). Research has indicated that lavender oil helps your body produce the most powerful antioxidants; glutathione, catalase and SOD, in less than 24 hours of using the oil. This antioxidant protection can prevent skin cell damage by neutralizing free radicals in the environment.

Lavender oil can improve problematic skin conditions including acne, eczema and sunburn. For eczema relief, simply mix a few drops of it with a carrier oil of your choice such as almond oil or coconut oil (our personal favourite!) and rub topically onto the affected area. Lavender oil contains anti-inflammatory properties to help heal the red, dry skin associated with eczema and dermatitis.

Combine lavender essential oil with aloe vera to soothe sunburn. It is also great for anti-aging products as it can help reduce age spots.

      3. Alleviates anxiety and emotional stress

Scientific research suggests that lavender essential oil can be effective to help reduce stress and as a treatment for anxiety disorders. It produces a calming effect without sedation, dependency or withdrawal symptoms.

Aromatherapy has been recognised for creating physiological and psychological benefits. The aroma of essential oils sends signals to the limbic system, the part of the brain which influences our emotional health. When you smell certain essential oils including lavender or orange, it can trigger emotions such as peace or joy.

You can inhale deep breaths of the oil directly from a tissue and buy an essential oil diffuser for your home to create a balanced atmosphere. This Muji Aroma Diffuser (£59.95) doubles up as a lamp with 2 light settings for a mellow ambiance.

      4. Helps heal cuts and insect bites

Lavender essential oil is great for cuts and grazes due to its antiseptic properties. It’s also beneficial for insect bites as it reduces swelling and itching. When combined with other essential oils such as tea tree oil, these properties are boosted, creating a powerful disinfectant.

       5. Eases menstrual cramps and PMS

Lavender essential oil has highly therapeutic properties which can ease tension, pressure and cramping. In addition, lavender helps to improve blood circulation and it has an intense soothing and relaxing effect on the mind. Dilute a few drops of lavender essential oil with a carrier oil and gently rub it directly into the skin where the cramps are worst. Furthermore you can add a few drops of the oil to your bath to de-stress.

We use organically certified, French lavender essential oil in our Soothing Natural Deodorant Creams for it’s antimicrobial and calming properties. It is combined with Madagascan vanilla extract essential oil for a sweet, floral, luxurious scent, to keep your underarms fresh all-day long!

We’d love to hear what you use lavender essential oil for?