Essential Oil of the Month: Lavender

True lavender (Lavendula augustifolia) is one of the most well-known and versatile essential oils available. It is especially popular in perfume, soaps and lotions. Lavender is extremely gentle. However, essential oil of lavender is a mild emmanagogue (promoting and regulating menstrual flow) so it is best avoided by those women who have high risk pregnancies or are in the early stages of pregnancy. The oil also has a hypotensive effect (lowering blood pressure)-one of the reasons it is so calming. It can make people who have low blood pressure feel drowsy and sluggish. Lavender has a light floral scent with herbaceous hints and woody undertones. Depending on where the lavender is grown, the scent can vary widely. French lavender is particularly pleasant and is well-tolerated by most, but some people find the smell of nauseating and it's also good to know the scent of lavender is unpleasant for mosquitoes and many house- hold pests. Use it to help keep them at bay! For the summer, lavender is a must-have. In addition to helping sore muscles and muscle spasms (think outdoor sports), it benefits a wide range of skin conditions. Insect stings and bites, cuts and wounds are all soothed by lavender. Blisters and rashes can be encouraged to heal quickly with a diluted blend of lavender and camomile. A further use of lavender is with burns. To counteract the effects of too much sun, try a blend of lavender, peppermint and niaouli. And don't forget the sunscreen! References:

1. Grace, UUa-Maija. Aromatherapy for Practitioners, C. W. Daniel Company Limited, 1996.
2. Stromkins, Jennine. The Autonomic Nervous System and Aromatherapy. International Essential Oil Corporation, 1998.