Lavender essential oil is steam distilled from its flowering tops.

Lavandula augustifolia

Lavender has been used for centuries and is a universal oil that has traditionally been known to balance the body, working wherever there is a need. It is said that “if in doubt, use lavender.” It is one of the few essential oils to still be listed in the British Pharmacopoeia.

Aromatic Benefits

An essential oil, when inhaled, can reach the emotional center of the brain within seconds. This is one of the incredible benefits of aromatherapy. Lavender is a popular essential oil long loved for its calming, soothing fragrance and is very similar to that of the fresh herb —clean, fresh, relaxing, and floral—which is why Lavender has always been such a favorite of gardeners and perfume makers. When diffused, Lavender adds a clean and fresh scent to any room. Many know about Lavender for it’s relaxing benefits but do not realize that it can be used aromatically to help improve cognitive performance as well.

Try this: Want to get away? Create your own relaxing retreat by diffusing Lavender. Not only is its aroma soothing, but it also fills any space with a fresh, clean smell that eliminates odors. You can even freshen the bedroom with a DIY Linen Spray

Topical Benefits

Lavender offers many benefits when applied topically. It is soothing, relieving, regenerating and relaxing to the skin.

Try this: Unwind at the end of a long day by adding a cup of Epsom salt and few drops of Lavender to a hot bath. Add a few drops to your favorite shampoos, lotions, or skin care products to give your hair and skin extra radiance and for a beautiful smell that lasts all day.

Companion Oils

Lavender pairs well with most citrus oils, also chamomile, clary sage, geranium and ylang ylang.

For more information and a .pdf, click here.

Interesting fact: It takes 27 square feet of lavender plants to make one 15-ml bottle of lavender oil.