Lavender Oil

Lavender Essential Oil is the most used Essential Oil in the world today, but the benefits of lavender were actually discovered over 2,500 years ago. Because of its powerful antioxidant, antimicrobial, sedative, calming and antidepressive properties, lavender oil perks abound, and it`s been used both cosmetically and therapeutically for centuries.

The Egyptians used lavender for mummification and as a perfume. In fact, when King Tut`s tomb was opened in 1923, there was said to be a faint scent of lavender that could still be detected after 3,000 years.

Early and modern aromatherapy texts advocate for lavender`s use as an antibacterial essential oil. The leaves and stems of the plant were used to prepare decoctions against digestive system diseases and rheumatism, and lavender was valued for its cosmetic purposes.

Lavender Oil Benefits
1. Antioxidant Protection
Free radicals, like toxins, chemicals and pollutants, are arguably the most dangerous and most common risk factor for every disease that affects Americans today. Free radicals are responsible for shutting down your immune system and can cause unbelievable damage to your body.

The body`s natural response to free radical damage is to create antioxidant enzymes - especially glutathione, catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) - that stop these free radicals from doing their damage. Unfortunately, your body can actually become deficient in antioxidants if the free radical burden is great enough, which has become relatively common in the U.S. because of poor diet and high exposure to toxins.

Thankfully, lavender is a natural antioxidant that works to prevent and reverse disease. A 2013 study published in Phytomedicine found that it increased the activity of the body`s most powerful antioxidants - glutathione, catalase and SOD. More recent studies have indicated similar results, concluding that lavender has antioxidant activity and helps prevent or reverse oxidative stress.

2. Improves Mood and Reduces Stress
In recent years, lavender oil has been put on a pedestal for its unique ability to protect against neurological damage. Traditionally, lavender has been used to treat neurological issues like migraines, stress, anxiety and depression, so it`s exciting to see that the research is finally catching up to history.

There are several studies showing the plant`s effects on stress and anxiety levels. A study from 2019 found that inhaling Lavandula is one of the most powerful anxiolytic oils, as it reduces peri-operative anxiety and can be considered a potential sedative for patients undergoing surgical procedures and anesthesia.

3.Promotes Healthy Skin and Hair
Most likely due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant characteristics, Lavandula mixed with a Carrier Oil (like coconut, jojoba or grapeseed oil) has profound benefits on your skin.

Using lavender oil topically can help improve a number of skin conditions, from canker sores to allergic reactions, acne and age spots. Research indicates that its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help ease skin conditions and reverse signs of aging.

To use lavender oil for skin health, combine three to four drops with ½ teaspoon of coconut or Jojoba Oil, and massage the mixture into the area of concern. You can also add lavender to your face or body wash.