Lavender enjoys quite a lot of popularity in the beauty and wellness industry, and it’s well earned. These lovely flowering plants are more than just a sight for sore eyes.
Lavender, or Lavendura, is a member of the mint family called Lamiaceae that originated in the Mediterranean region and is renowned for its alluring scent. However, that is not all these plants have to offer; they carry many more purposes than we may be aware of.
Lavender in Aromatherapy
Essential oils used in aromatherapy can soothe our nervous systems, anxiety, stress and brighten our spirits. Because breathing the oil molecules allows them to transfer messages to the amygdala part of the brain, which is responsible for directing emotions.
Lavender oil is a popular choice. It is a multifunctional oil that is obtained by steam distillation of the plant’s fresh or partially dried leaves, and it’s used to treat depression, anxiety, insomnia, and nausea, among other things.
The many benefits:
- Inhaling lavender has a calming effect, as it slows down heavy breathing and lowers heart rate, calming the nervous system and alleviating anxiety symptoms.
- Putting a few stems underneath the pillow will help you sleep better since the aroma helps to battle nausea by decompressing the mind, and because of this effect they are also excellent for migraines and headaches.
- It’s also stated that inhaling this oil helps to battle insomnia (studies back this up).
Massaging lavender oil into areas of joint discomfort, pains, and sprains with a carrier oil like coconut helps relax the muscles and relieve pain.
Migraines and headaches can be cured by applying the same technique to the neck, temples, and forehead.
Menstrual cramps can also be relieved by applying the oil to the abdomen area.
Inhaling the oil can help with respiratory problems such as sore throats, colds, flu, coughs, and sinus infections.
In addition, it can be used as an insect repellent.
Lavender tea, a herbal infusion, aids in the reduction of inflammation and the regulation of the immune system.
It is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich plant that protects and nourishes the skin in a number of ways, which is why it has become a popular ingredient in many skincare products.
Bella Vita Organic Lavender Essential Oil, Nykaa Naturals Lavender Essential Oil, Vaseline Lavender Moisturising Gel, Khadi Natural Pure Lavender Soap, are some beauty products that utilise lavender as a key ingredient.
Hair care
Lavender oil is expected to help treat hair loss and promote hair growth, as well as eliminating lice and lice eggs. It also has antibacterial, antifungal and antimicrobial properties that can treat scalp issues like eczema, dandruff and itchiness.
Although all these advantages sometimes have to be carried with precaution because it can have some potential side effects. It is rather safe for adults, but can create problems for young children; they are also dangerous when taken through mouth as it can cause constipation.
Bulgaria has surpassed France as the biggest producer of lavender oil, followed by China and Spain. In India, Lavender is cultivated successfully in low-rainfall regions, such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and the Valleys of Jammu and Kashmir, where natural farming is practised in more than 20 districts utilising cow dung as a fertiliser. In the Doda district, more than 800 farmers have shifted from maize to lavender farming.
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