The Lavender and Lavender (spike) essential oil and CO extract are obtained from the flowers. The lavender plant is native to the mediterranean and an evergreen plant. The plant grows to a height of about 3 feet and lilac-colored flowers. Spike lavender grows to about 3 feet as well but has a grey-green leaves, and purple flowers. The lavender plant has 28 species.
The Romans scented their public baths with lavender while other physicians of late prescribed it for chest congestion and uplifting the spirits. The flowers were used as tea to receive stress and anxiety. The flowers to ease spasms, relieve anxiety, help fatigue, clear the breathing passages, stomach upsets, nausea, and fating spells by herbalist and folk medicine. The flowers are used to flavor jelly, tea, wine and garnishes. Lavender is also used to scent soaps, detergents,lotions, and perfumes.
Lavender is one of the most versatile and useful essential oils for therapeutic purposes. Lavender essential oil is used in zoos to calm lions and tigers. It is also known to neutralize venom from snake and insect bites immediately after it has been applied. Pure lavender essential oil can repel mosquitos for up to 10 minutes.
Uses:
Improves digestion
Soothing to the intestine Purifying; helps in the reduction of cellulite Calming and Strengthening to the nerves, relaxes the muscles,
lessens tension; promotes a restful sleep.
Vapors open the sinus and breathing passages
Mood uplifting, balances mood swings
Lessens aches and pains; gently removes fluid retention Disinfectant
repels insects, kills parasites and lice
Healing to the skin: bruises, cuts, wounds, sunburns, scars, sores, insect bites, and injuries.
Properties:
Analgesic* antibacterial* anticonvulsive*antidepressants (premenstrual syndrome and menopause)*anti- fungal* anti-inflammatory* antirheumatic*antiseptic* antispasmodic, antistress*antitoxic*antitussive*anti venomous*antiviral*aperitive* calmative*carminative* cephalic* cholagogue* cicatrizant* cordial*cytophy-lacticd*econgestant*deodorant*detoxifier* diuretic* emmenagogue* healing (skin)* hypotensor* insect repellent* nervine*parasiticide* regenerator (skin tissue)*restorative*reviving*sedative (heart)*stimulant (respiratory system), vermifuge*vulnerary*
Methods of Use:
Aroma lamp
Bath
Diffuser
Inhaler
Light Application
Bulb ring
Massage
Mist spray
Steam inhalation
Steam room
Sauna
Comments: Spike lavender is more camphorous than the other lavender varieties.
Caution: Spike lavender should be avoided during pregnancy
DIY Cleaning Recipes Using Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil makes a great kitchen and bathroom cleaner, particularly good for cleaning bench tops due to its disinfectant properties and anti bacterial properties.
Lavender essential oil blends well with Rose, Geranium, Frankincense, Vetiver, Pine, Lemon, Tangerine, Patchouli, bergamot, Sweet Orange, Cedarwood, Neroli, Petitgrain, Grapefruit, Rosemary, Clary Sage.
What you Need:
white vinegar
baking soda
unscented liquid Castile soap
olive oil
rubbing alcohol
cornstarch
microfiber cloth
jar
Mold & Mildew Cleaner
1 cup white vinegar
15 drops Lavender essential oil
15 drops melaleuca or eucalyptus essential oil
Shake to combine, spray on surface to be cleaned, wipe with microfiber cloth, spray again with cleaner and allow to air dry.
Soft Scrub
3 Tbsp. unscented liquid Castile soap
1 cup baking soda
15 drops Lavender essential oil
Glass jar
Mix together into a paste, take a small amount on a damp microfiber cloth, and scrub the surface. If the stains are really tough, let the mixture sit for a few minutes. Store the remaining soft scrub mixture in a jar.
Daily Shower Spray
2 cups distilled water
2 Tbsp. unscented liquid Castile soap
10 drops Lavender essential oil
15 drops melaleuca or eucalyptus essential oil
Shake to combine, spray it on shower doors and tile every day after you shower and you should have to clean a whole lot less often.
Wood Floor Cleaner
2 cups distilled water
2 Tbsp. white vinegar
10 drops Lavender essential oil
Shake to combine, squirt a little on the floor, and mop up with a damp mop or swifter.
Dusting Spray
1 cup distilled water
¼ cup white vinegar,
2 Tbsp. olive oil
15 drops Lavender essential oil
Shake to combine, spray on surface to be cleaned, wipe clean with microfiber cloth. Avoid vinegar on natural stone.
Wood polish
¼ cup white vinegar
¼ cup olive oil
10 drops Lavender essential oil
Shake to combine, apply to a microfiber cloth, and wipe wood surface clean. Repeat every 2-3 months or as often as needed. Avoid vinegar on natural stone.
All-Purpose Cleaner (great for counters)
¼ cup white vinegar or dish soap
1 ½ cups distilled water
25 drops Lavender essential oil
Shake to combine, spray on surface, and wipe clean. Avoid vinegar on natural stone.
Mirror & Window Cleaner
½ cup white vinegar
½ cup rubbing alcohol
1Tbsp cornstarch
10 drops Lavender essential oil Spray bottle
Spray bottle Shake to combine, spray on surface, and wipe clean.
Carpet Freshner
1 cup baking soda
10 drops Lavender essential oil
Jar
Shake all over carpet and let sit for half hour and then vacuum.
Feel free to download our DIY recipe so you have it on hand when you are cleaning and some inspiration.