The Queen of Herbs

Aromatherapy continues to be a growing area of interest as North America continues its search for alternative and complimentary applications of natural medicines. The use of herbal supplements in our daily lives is one excellent example of this. People are familiar with the term Aromatherapy and most have heard of essential oils, but few know how to use them in practical, daily applications

Most essential oils are generally too concentrated to use directly on your skin. They need to be diluted for application. As with anything, there are exceptions. Lavender and tea tree are the most commonly used oils that can be applied directly on the skin (neat) but it is best to use with a carrier oil. There are many excellent resources on essential oils and their effects on body, spirit and mind. Some oils have contra-indications so it is important that you learn about any oil before using it.

Essential oils are great companions to enhancing your daily life, when used appropriately.

Imagine a flower being able to calm your nerves, reduce inflammation and swelling, promote faster healing for minor burns, decrease muscle pain, alleviate insomnia, aid concentration, combat mental as well as physical fatigue and work as a natural bug repellant and more. That purple colored flower named Lavender is one of the most versatile essential oils the plant kingdom has to offer. Additionally, it's obtained without a prescription. Originally found in the Mediterranean countries, the perennial herb Lavender has long been prized for its perfume and medicinal qualities.

One of the most gentle and versatile essential oils, Lavender can have a positive influence on your mental, emotional, physical, and metaphysical state. This oil brings clarity, peace of mind, and emotional balance. Lavender has been successfully used to treat insomnia, depression, impatience, stress, and worry. Lavender is one of those essential oils that will bring out the best healing properties in other essential oils it is blended with.

Lavender and relaxation are two words that are virtually synonymous with each other. Its effect is antibacterial, pain-relieving, healing for wounds, soothing for skin diseases, deodorizing, antiseptic, fungicidal, insect-repelling, rejuvenating, and anti-inflammatory. Lavender may be used to treat all types of skin and is effective for acne and oily hair, itchy skin, hand care, cracked skin, bruises, shock injuries, acne scars, blisters, abscesses, warts, boils, wounds, and burns.

A bath with Lavender soothes and heals the skin after sunburn. I keep a small sachet of lavender buds, chamomile flowers and rose petals in my pillow case every night to aid in a very restful no mind racing sleep. I also use lavender essential oil in different blends throughout the day. When I’m at the computer I have on one of my USB Oil Warmers. When I am working on a nail client I have my Electric Warmer on at the table. Each room of my house has an Aroma Warmer of some kind so that I can use whatever blend or essential oil that is needed. I use lavender from different origins in my aromatherapy blends but my favorite is Bulgarian Lavender.