Lavender essential oil (EO) is one of the most cherished oils in the world of natural skincare and aromatherapy. Revered for its soothing aroma and powerful therapeutic properties, lavender oil has been used for centuries in both medical and cosmetic applications. Whether used for its calming effects on the skin or in aromatherapy to alleviate stress, lavender essential oil is a versatile ingredient with countless benefits. In this article, we’ll explore what lavender EO is, how it’s made, its historical and modern medical applications, and how it benefits the skin. Additionally, we’ll dive into how lavender is used in our Hush blend at Primitive Brood, providing you with a calming and restorative experience.
What is Lavender Essential Oil?
Lavender essential oil is derived from the flowers of the lavender plant (Lavandula angustifolia), which is native to the Mediterranean. The oil is extracted through a method called steam distillation, where steam is passed through the plant material to release its aromatic compounds. This process allows the oil to retain all the beneficial properties that have made lavender essential oil a staple in wellness practices for centuries.
How is Lavender Essential Oil Made?
To make lavender essential oil, the flowers are harvested at the peak of their bloom. The plant material is then steam-distilled, a process that helps preserve the potent, volatile oils of the lavender. The steam is condensed, separating the essential oil from the water, resulting in a pure, aromatic oil. This method ensures that lavender’s soothing properties are locked into the oil, ready for use in skincare, medicine, and aromatherapy.
The History of Lavender Essential Oil in Skin Care and Medicine
Lavender has been used for centuries, dating back to ancient Egypt, where it was utilized in the mummification process. The Romans adopted lavender for its soothing properties, using it in baths and as a remedy for various ailments. In the Middle Ages, lavender became a popular herb for its medicinal qualities, and by the Renaissance, it had established itself as a go-to ingredient in skin care for treating burns, insect bites, and skin irritations.
In modern times, lavender EO remains a beloved remedy in both skincare and holistic medicine. Its long history as a natural healer underscores its credibility and effectiveness in today’s wellness world.
Lavender Essential Oil’s Medical Applications
Lavender essential oil is more than just a fragrant addition to your skincare routine—it has a wide range of medical benefits that have been embraced for centuries.
- Anxiety and Stress Relief: Lavender is well-known for its calming effects. Research has shown that lavender oil can significantly reduce anxiety and stress. In aromatherapy, lavender EO is often diffused to create a relaxing atmosphere, reducing feelings of tension and promoting emotional well-being.
- Pain Relief: Lavender has natural analgesic properties, making it effective for alleviating various types of pain. From headaches to muscle aches, lavender oil can help reduce discomfort when applied topically (with proper dilution) or used in aromatherapy.
- Anti-inflammatory: Lavender EO boasts powerful anti-inflammatory effects, which make it an excellent choice for calming inflamed skin. It’s used to treat conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis, helping to reduce redness and promote healing.
- Antioxidant Properties: Lavender EO is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors like pollution and UV exposure. This makes it a valuable ingredient in anti-aging skincare products, helping to fight free radicals and prevent premature aging.
How Lavender Essential Oil Benefits the Skin
Lavender essential oil is a powerhouse ingredient when it comes to skin care. Here are some key benefits for the skin:
- Soothing and Calming: Lavender EO has a gentle, soothing effect on the skin, helping to calm irritation, redness, and inflammation. It’s particularly helpful for sensitive skin and can be used to alleviate the discomfort caused by sunburns or harsh skin treatments.
- Acne Treatment: Lavender’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective remedy for acne-prone skin. It helps reduce acne-causing bacteria while calming inflamed skin, making it an excellent choice for acne treatments.
- Moisturizing and Healing: Lavender EO helps to hydrate the skin and promote the healing of minor cuts, burns, or scrapes. Its antiseptic qualities ensure that wounds stay clean and protected from bacteria, speeding up the healing process.
- Restores Skin Balance: Lavender helps balance oil production in the skin, making it useful for both dry and oily skin types. Its ability to restore equilibrium to the skin helps maintain healthy, clear, and hydrated skin.
The Aromatherapy Benefits of Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil is most commonly known for its use in aromatherapy. Its calming aroma makes it a go-to oil for relaxation, stress relief, and sleep improvement. Lavender’s versatility in aromatherapy is one of the reasons it’s so widely used:
- Promotes Relaxation: Lavender EO is often diffused in homes and spas to create a relaxing atmosphere. The calming scent can help reduce stress, calm anxiety, and prepare the mind for restful sleep.
- Improves Sleep Quality: Lavender EO has long been associated with better sleep. Research shows that lavender can improve sleep quality and help individuals fall asleep faster. Adding a few drops of lavender oil to your pillow or using a diffuser before bedtime can help you unwind and enjoy a restful night’s sleep.
- Mood Enhancement: Lavender oil is also believed to uplift mood and promote emotional balance. It’s often used in blends designed to reduce symptoms of depression and improve overall well-being.
Safe Use of Lavender Essential Oil on the Skin
Lavender essential oil is generally considered safe for most people when used correctly. However, as with any essential oil, it should always be diluted before being applied to the skin. A typical dilution is 1-2% lavender oil in a carrier oil like coconut oil, jojoba oil, or sweet almond oil.
Though lavender EO is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience skin sensitivities. It's essential to perform a patch test before using lavender EO for the first time to ensure no allergic reactions or irritation occur. If you experience any discomfort, discontinue use immediately.
It’s also important to note that lavender should not be ingested unless under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. As with all essential oils, proper dilution is key to safe application.
Lavender in Primitive Brood’s Hush Blend
At Primitive Brood, we’ve incorporated both lavender essential oil and chamomile into our Hush blend, a calming whipped tallow balm. This soothing product combines lavender’s natural healing properties with chamomile’s anti-inflammatory and calming effects, creating a harmonious blend for the skin. Our proprietary mix also includes 100% grass-fed beef tallow, raw shea butter, and coconut oil, all working together to hydrate and restore.
Hush is designed to calm and nourish your skin, while offering the relaxation and tranquility that lavender and chamomile are so well-known for. Whether you’re seeking relief from skin irritation or looking for a natural way to unwind after a long day, Hush provides the perfect combination of skincare and aromatherapy benefits.
Lavender essential oil is a true powerhouse with benefits that extend far beyond its fragrant aroma. From its historical use in skincare to its modern applications in treating anxiety, pain, and inflammation, lavender EO is a versatile and valuable addition to any wellness routine. At Primitive Brood, we’ve harnessed the calming and healing properties of lavender essential oil in Hush, offering a soothing experience that not only nurtures your skin but promotes relaxation and emotional well-being.
Remember, always dilute essential oils properly to ensure safe use, and be mindful of any skin sensitivities. By incorporating lavender into your skincare routine, you can enjoy its numerous benefits and experience the calming effects it brings to both your skin and your mind.
Sources:
- Lavender Essential Oil Benefits, AromaWeb, www.aromaweb.com.
- The History and Uses of Lavender Essential Oil, Natural Living Ideas, www.naturallivingideas.com.
- Lavender Essential Oil for Skin Care, Healthline, www.healthline.com.
- Scientific Studies on Lavender EO, PubMed Central, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.go
