Why do I love lavender so much?

It's true, I absolutely LOVE lavender, it has such an amazing combination of qualities—it’s soothing, versatile, and has a natural elegance. The scent itself is calming, which is why it’s often used to help with stress, anxiety, or sleep. The pale purpley-blue colour is gorgeous and incredibly gentle on the eyes, giving a peaceful and serene vibe.

I often hear people say things like “oh lavender reminds me of my nan”, or “isn’t lavender just for grannies?”. First, how wonderful that a plant reminds you of your nan, and second, NO, lavender is most definitely for everyone!

Lavender essential oil can be used in so many practical ways, and I love that versatility. It's one of the most popular essential oils because of its wide range of uses. Some people use it for relaxation, applying a few drops on their pillow or in a diffuser to help with sleep. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it useful in skincare for soothing irritated skin or minor burns. It's why I put it in the Bye Bye Gel. 

Lavender is the perfect blend of beauty, calm, and utility!

Unless you hate the smell of lavender (there are people out there) I heartily recommend having a bottle of essential oil in the house. There are plenty of easy ways to use it, depending on what you’d like to achieve.

Here are some of the ways I use lavender oil:

1. To relax and help me sleep.

Diffuser: I add 5-6 drops of lavender essential oil to an essential oil diffuser to fill my bedroom with a calming scent. This is great for creating a peaceful atmosphere before bed.

Pillow Spray: I mix a few drops of lavender oil with water in a spray bottle and lightly mist the pillows or sheets before sleeping. This is especially lovely after a hot day!

Bath: When I have the chance for a bath I take it and I add 5-10 drops to the warm water along with Epsom salts. The combination is incredibly relaxing and soothing for both body and mind.

2. To chill me out 

Topical Application: I dilute lavender essential oil with a carrier oil (like sunflower or almond oil) in a 2-3% solution and massage it into my temples, wrists, or neck. This helps ease stress and tension.

Inhalation: When I don't have access to an aromatherapy diffuser, or I'm on the go, I like to add a couple of drops of lavender oil to a cloth, then inhale deeply when I need to relax during the day.

3. For looking after my teenagers’ skin.

Acne and Irritation: Lavender oil is gentle on the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it great for soothing acne, eczema, or small cuts. I mix a few drops with a sunflower oil and let him apply it directly to his forehead.

Deodoriser: When I want to have a deodorant free day, I add a few drops of lavender oil to my Frankincense Toner, and spray it in my armpits before getting dressed in the morning.

4. For keeping the house clean, naturally. 

Air Freshener: I have two big dogs and they can really stink up the house sometimes! Not to mention my son's stinky socks. I mix lavender essential oil with water and a bit of white vinegar in a spray bottle to create a natural air freshener.

Laundry: I add a few drops to laundry detergent to give our clothes a fresh, calming lavender scent. It also deodorises the washer drum and keeps it clean too!

Aromatic drawers: I scatter loose flower buds into my underwear and sock drawer. It makes my clothes smell nice!

By the way, I only use Organic Lavender Essential Oil. Here's why:

Fewer pesticides and chemicals. Organic lavender is grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers. This means the essential oil extracted from organic lavender is less likely to contain pesticide residues, which is crucial if you're applying it to your skin, inhaling it, or using around children or pets.

Higher Quality. Organic essential oils are often subject to stricter quality standards, resulting in a purer product. Since essential oils are concentrated, any contaminants from non-organic farming practices might be intensified in the oil.

Higher purity. Organic lavender oils also tend to have a richer aroma due to more natural growing processes, which makes for a completely superior experience in aromatherapy.

Sustainability. Organic farming practices are generally better for the environment, as they promote soil health, reduce water contamination, and protect biodiversity. Choosing organic lavender oil supports sustainable agriculture, which supports a healthy planet.

How do you feel about lavender? Share your thoughts with me by emailing: info@iamnatural.co.uk

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Read more about natural aromatherapy skincare in the I Am Natural Vegan Beauty Journal.