Complete Guide to Essential Oils/A to Z of essential oils/Lavender

Lavender is a very useful and popular essential oil. It comes from the flower tops of Lavandula angustifolia (Lavandula officinalis) plants and is extracted by steam distillation. It has a flowery scent and a balancing effect on the body and mind.
 * Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Circulatory
May lower blood pressure and reduce fluid retention.

Digestive
Relieves indigestion, nausea, vomiting and flatulence. Soothes colic.

Emotional
Soothes stress, anxiety and depression. Helps calm panic and hysteria. Alleviates insomnia.

Gynecological
Regulates the menstrual cycle. Eases symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.

Immunological
Helps fight throat infections.

Pain
Alleviates arthritis, rheumatism, headaches and migraine. Soothes muscle pain. Helps fight stress for shingles

Respiratory
Relieves asthma, bronchitis, laryngitis, catarrh and symptoms of a cold.

Skin
Improves acne, psoriasis, eczema, dandruff, oily skin and athlete's foot. Promotes healing of abscesses, minor wounds, sunburn and burns. It can be applied neat to the skin and is very effective on minor burns.

Other uses
Repels insects.

Caution

 * Don't use lavender oil during the early stages of pregnancy.

Blending
Lavender can be combined with clary sage, frankincense, geranium, cedarwood, pine, nutmeg and citrus oils.