Lavender oil is pretty popular in the grounds of aromatherapy as its use as a massage oil or lotion. It being natural makes it a good lubricant when kneading and rubbing skin during massages. This amazing essential oil comes from the vapors of steamed lavender flowers local to the terrains of the Mediterranean region and several areas of India and Africa. These lavender plants have their origins from the mint family, Lavandula, which is said to include around 40 species. Thousands of years ago, lavender made quite an impression as it was not only used up in cosmetics but in embalming mummies of Egypt and healing wounds, cuts, sprains, and stings in Arabia, as well. Throughout the course of time, the purpose of lavender oil greatly increased. Its dried flowers and oil extracts are used for tea, potpourris, repelling insects, and as component in many commercial products like shampoos, soaps, hair care and lotions.
The aromatic molecules of esters are said to be the main reason why lavender became quite big in alternative medicine and in aromatherapy. It is believed to have antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory elements. Moreover, its beautiful calming scent makes it quite an invaluable oil in promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
When lavender essential oil and lotions are massaged onto foreheads and temples, their relaxing and soothing aroma, relieve tension headaches, stress, anxiety, migraines and depression.
When placed in a diffuser and inhaled, lavender oil can help insomniacs achieve the restful sleep they have been wanting. People with sleep apnea, too, can benefit from lavender oil rubs and lotions as well.
When massaged onto scalps, lavender oil can destroy lice and nits. Dandruff problems can go away, too.
Lavender oil massages and lotions can rejuvenate, restore and revitalize the skin, as experienced by so many. This benefit is widely accounted to its having antiseptic and antifungal elements. Ugly skin conditions like acne, dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, scabies, and shingles can easily be dealt with. Wrinkles and sunburns can be treated also.
With its antiseptic element, lavender essential oil can be spread over wounds, minor burns, cuts, stings, and bites. Its anti-inflammatory element can also undone the swelling and relieve the pain brought about by the wound.
On accounts, lavender massages have been noted to relieve joint pains and muscle aches.
These are the various benefits that lavender oil massages and lotions can offer the human body. Amazingly, for a small plant, there seem to be a lot of benefits that people can derive from it. However, no matter how appealing and believable the benefits and accounts can be, it is still wise to consult an authorized herb specialist or medical doctor before employing the aid of lavender oil massages and lotions. This is because what is good for one may not be the same for the other. Though the above listed remedies are supported by scientific evidence, some are just backed up by personal experience and observation. In addition, lavender oil can result to allergic reactions to people who are highly sensitive to it. Furthermore, it is advisable that pregnant women should avoid the application of lavender massage oils and lotions during pregnancy because it might cause some ill effects.