Lavender Aromatherapy

Lavender Aromatherapy Properties

Lavender aromatherapy has a long history. The flower has been used in herbal medicines for centuries, and medical trials are now showing that many claims are based in fact. At the First International Lavender Conference in Cambridge UK in 2009, there were discussions of research into the use of Lavandula angustifolia for many medical treatments including the treatment of anxiety.

In the home, lavender is most commonly found in the form of lavender essential oil, potpourri or lavender bags.

Buy lavender aromatherapy at daisyshop.co.uk

 

Scientific basis for aromatherapy

There is growing evidence that fragrance chemicals in the air, even in small concentrations, are detectable in the blood stream and can have a measurable effect, with results having been reported for essential oils such as lavender as long as thirty years ago [1]. It has been suggested that inhaled molecules have an increased opportunity to enter the brain by bypassing the blood-brain barrier, which normally restricts movement of chemicals into this organ [2]. A review on the scientific basis for aromatherapy was recently published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine [3] and contains many useful references if you’d like to find out more.

Relaxing properties of lavender proved

The relaxing nature of lavender has been well documented. One example is a scientific trial in 2005 in which dental patients were exposed to the fragrance before receiving treatment [4]. Further trials have since been carried out, as discussed in this article on the BBC website about lavender.

Lavender oil for aromatherapy

Pure lavender essential oil is inexpensive and easy to obtain. For example the bottle shown above contains undiluted oil steam distilled from the flowers of Lavandula angustifolia in France and only costs a few pounds.

Uses for lavender oil in lavender aromatherapy include contact with the skin as well as through fragrance alone.

Lavender bags

The flower grains in lavender bags contain the naturally occurring oil mentioned above. So any lavender aromatherapy effects that you might notice with a bottle of oil through scent alone are also true for lavender bags. And more of the oil can be released as needed by squeezing the bag.

Lavender bags can be used in aromatherapy as a sleep pillow – add hops and/or chamomile for extra oomph! Or carry one around to sniff as needed. They’re also great in small spaces such as your car.

Lavender potpourri

The simplest potpourri is just some fragrant lavender grains placed in a bowl! But if you really want to boost the scent add a few drops of oil and top up whenever you notice the fragrance wain. It’s great displayed in your bedroom for a good night’s sleep.

Other lavender aromatherapy products

Of course the oil can be found in many aromatherapy products such as room sprays, diffusers, toiletries and pillow mist. But if you’re looking for an aromatherapy effect rather than just a nice scent, it’s best to check the ingredients before purchase.