Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender is often referred to as the mother of essential oils and is one of the most popular oils used in aromatherapy massage. Taking its name from the Latin lavare, meaning "to wash," lavender possesses a clean, pure aroma.

It is known for its calming and relaxing properties and has a harmonising effect on the nervous system.

Ancient Greeks used lavender oil to treat throat infections and chest conditions, while in Rome, lavender flower heads where used in communal baths probably for its antiseptic properties, as well as its sweet fragrance.

Many medieval European herbalists used lavender water to help prevent infections. Small bundles of dried lavender were also placed in the laundry, to make clothes smell fresh and keep moths away.

They also treated insomnia and other sleep disorders, by placing small dried bundles inside their pillows. Today Tibetans still make an edible lavender butter to use as part of a traditional treatment for nervous disorders.

It is very beneficial for the relief of muscle aches and pains and can also be used for the relief of rheumatism, sciatica and arthritis. It has antiseptic qualities and can be used to treat insect bites.

Ripple uses true lavender (L. angustifolia) in its oil blends, a pure highly effective (and more expensive) lavender essential oil. It is found in our following products...

Lavender essential oil products

Relaxation Gift Box - Perfect way to unwind, de-stress and relax. Includes our relaxation lotion, scented massage oil, aromatherapy soap, bath salts, and peppermint scented foot soak. Beautifully gift wrapped, includes free delivery to anywhere in Australia. Only $70

Ripple Relaxation Massage Oil - A sublime blend of essential oils designed to relax. Jasmine, Orange Blossom, Lavender and Sandalwood. Large 125 ml bottle. $8

Relaxation Bath Salts - Light a candle and relax in the bath with these aromatherapy bath salts. Jasmine, Orange Blossom, Lavender and Sandalwood. Large 500 ml jar. $15

Special tips:

To make a tea, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried lavender flowers to 1 cup (8 ounces) of hot (but not boiling) water. Steep for five to 10 minutes, then strain. Drink as needed.

For sunburn: Twice a day, apply cool compresses soaked in lavender tea, and then gently rub in a few drops of lavender oil that you have mixed with 1/2 ounce of almond oil (or another neutral oil). Alternatively, add a few drops of the oil to a cool bath.

For cuts, scrapes, and other minor skin wounds: When treating a cut or scrape, dab 1 or 2 drops of lavender oil on the wound two or three times a day, but only after thoroughly cleaning the wound and waiting for the bleeding to stop. You can also apply lavender tea compresses or add a few drops of lavender oil to a cool bath.

For a relaxing bath to promote sleep (treat insomnia): Add several drops of lavender oil to the warm water.

For nervous tension and mild depression: Drink a cup of lavender tea three or four times a day as needed. Excessive use, however, can cause drowsiness.