A number of studies have reported that lavender essential oil may be beneficial in a variety of conditions, including insomnia, alopecia (hair loss), anxiety, stress, and postoperative pain. However, most of these studies have been small. Lavender is also being studied for antibacterial and antiviral properties. Lavender oil is often used in other forms of integrative medicine, such as massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic manipulation.

EMOTION

With antidepressant and sedative qualities, lavender lifts depression, eases stress and anxiety, and is useful in overcoming headaches, migraine and insomnia.

Insomnia or Agitation

The sedative quality of lavender can induce sleep and ease problems of insomnia, restlessness and agitation. Studies also suggest that massage with essential oils, particularly lavender, may result in improved sleep quality, more stable mood, better concentration, and reduced anxiety. lavender aromatherapy may help reduce agitation in patients with dementia. Lavender flowers have also been approved in Germany as a tea for insomnia, restlessness, and nervous stomach irritations.

SKIN

Lavender is antiseptic and anti-inflamatory; healing cuts, burns, sunburns, insect bites, acne, eczema and even dandruff.

BREATHING

Lavender is a natural disinfectant and can kill germs. It is also an expectorant, which breaks up congestion. It can help fight colds, throat infections, coughs, sinusitis and flu.

CIRCULATION

Lavender is a sedative and hypotensive, and reduces high blood pressure and palpitations.

DIGESTION

Lavender use aids in easing indigestion, flatulence and nausea and alleviates bad breath or tooth ache.

MUSCULAR

Lavender is analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic; the oil is good for aches, pains, sprains, cramps and spasms.

Alopecia areata

In one study of 86 people with alopecia areata (an autoimmune disease that causes hair to fall out, often in patches), those who massaged their scalps with lavender and other essential oils daily for 7 months experienced significant hair re-growth compared to those who massaged their scalps without the essential oils. However, there is no way to tell whether it was one or the combination of oils that was effective.

Other uses

Aromatherapists also use lavender in inhalation therapy to treat headaches, nervous disorders, and exhaustion. lavender oil treat skin ailments, such as fungal infections (like candidiasis), wounds, eczema, and acne. It is also used in a healing bath for joint and muscle pain. lavender oil may improve pain control after surgery.