Lavender is a plant that needs no introduction. It is probably the most soothing scent a person can ever experience. It can also be added to various dishes for flavoring, and can help soothe the mind and spirit too.
But then, not many of us are aware of the wonderful benefits of lavender. And that is why you have come to the right place – this post talks about the various ways lavender can be beneficial to your skin, hair, and health.
1. Helps Treat Acne:
Lavender oil is one of those few natural ingredients you can look up to for getting rid of acne troubles. The oil has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can fight the bacteria that cause acne and inflammation.
Simply dab some lavender oil on your acne blemishes using a cotton swab, and see the desired results.
According to University of Maryland Medical Center, aromatherapists use lavender extensively for treating acne.
2. Aids In The Treatment Of Eczema:
Eczema can be a very embarrassing skin condition, but only if one doesn’t have lavender oil handy. This is because the oil has the ability to relieve itching and reduce the symptoms of eczema. It also decongests the irritated areas on the skin by adding moisture, thereby accelerating the healing process.
3. Can Detoxify The Skin:
Given the obnoxious variety of environmental toxins and other pollutants our skin is exposed to most of the time, it is not surprising to know that our skin’s health is deteriorating with each passing day.
But we have lavender to the rescue – it contains powerful antioxidants that can fight against the harmful effects of pollutants on the skin.
In one study conducted by the Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, it was found that lavender oil was one of the few potent essential oils that can inhibit the growth of skin bacteria.
4. Heals Burns:
The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of lavender oil again play a role here. The oil is beneficial in healing the burns, and also helps treat the scars caused by them (or scars caused by injuries. In addition, lavender oil also acts as a pain reliever.
Just add a few drops of lavender oil to the burnt area after keeping it under running water for about 10 minutes. Doing so can accelerate the healing process. However, keep in mind that you must consult a doctor immediately in the case of serious burns.
5. Can Help Heal Insect Bites:
Though not a serious problem, insect bites can indeed mess up with your daily activities. But that wouldn’t be the case when you have lavender oil handy.
Simply add a few drops of lavender oil on the insect bite or gnaw, and see the itching and swelling decrease considerably.
Lavender oil can act as a good insect repellant, and it has been traditionally used for treating insect bites.
An Australian study had revealed the presence of scientific and clinical data that support the traditional uses of lavender.
However, do exercise caution while using the oil on children for treating insect bites. According to The University of Arizona, lavender oil must not be used on children below the age of 2 years.
6. For Treating Tired Muscles:
We know how tired our muscles can get after a long day at work; and we also know how heavenly a good massage can feel at that point of time. This is where lavender oil comes around as something you shouldn’t ignore.
Ideally you can prepare a lavender bath by adding 4 to 6 drops of the oil to a large bowl of warm water. Soak your hands or feet in this bath for about ten minutes, and feel refreshed and relaxed.
Lavender oil has been found to be excellent for treating tired muscles especially that of the feet and head. You can also rub a little amount of lavender oil to your feet before going to bed – this, apart from soothing your tired feet, can also soften and hydrate any rough spots or patches on your feet.
7. As A Toner:
Lavender tones and makes your skin firm as it boosts circulation, thus resulting in an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrition to the skin cells. This helps in keeping the cells healthy and boosting their renewal process.
You can make a toner at home with lavender and water. Boil 100 ml of water in a bowl and then put in the lavender buds, so that they are completely submerged. Cover the bowl, leaving the brew to steep for a few hours. Drain the mixture into a clean glass bottle and refrigerate it. Spray some of this lavender water on a cotton pad and gently wipe your face with it (after washing your face in the morning). This will refresh your skin like a toner.
Dried Lavender petals can be found in our Bee Detoxified soaking salt.