Lavender oil has been used for medicinal as well as cosmetic purposes for centuries. Lavender is extracted from a flowering herb called Lavandula angustifolia.
Anxiety
A study by the National Institute for Environmental Studies, Japan, showed that a compound called linalool, found in lavender oil, has an antianxiety effect on participants. The findings support the traditional use of lavender oil as a remedy for anxiety. (See Resources below.)
Wounds
Lavender oil is used to treat wounds and fight infection. The linalool content in this essential oil has strong antiseptic properties, making it ideal for killing viruses and bacteria.
Skin
The linalool in lavender oil is also beneficial to the skin when this oil is applied topically. It helps ease skin irritation, clear up acne and heal burns, bruises and scars.
Insomnia
Lavender is beneficial in easing stress and tension, and is used in aromatherapy to help induce sleep among people who suffer from insomnia.
Massage Oil
Lavender oil is used as a massage oil to help relax muscles and ease tensions. It is rich in esters, compounds that help to prevent muscle spasms.
Mood Regulator
The esters in this essential oil also help to regulate mood, making it useful for relieving anxiety, tension and depression.
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