Essential oils are the new fad amongst health-conscious people. And very rightly so! They have an incredible smell & provide a plethora of health benefits. One such popular essential oil is Lavender oil. There are many documented lavender oil benefits that make it a popular choice. This article explores the benefits, uses, and possible side effects of lavender oil.
Lavender Oil Benefits
Lavender oil is made from the Lavender plant. The lavender plant is a lovely evergreen plant native to the Mediterranean region. Interestingly, the flowers have a very distinctive and pleasant smell. Therefore, they are used for oil extraction. Let’s look at some of the incredible benefits of Lavender Oil.
1. Get Better Digestion
Lavender oil has antibacterial & antifungal properties. This can kill harmful bacteria in your gut. Additionally, it can also stimulate the secretion of digestive juices. Therefore, using lavender oil can be good for your digestion.
2.Improve Blood Circulation
Lavender oil is well known for its relaxing properties. Directly applying lavender oil can eliminate stress and anxiety. Less stress & anxiety can have a vasodilating effect, leading to improved blood circulation. Improved blood circulation gives you a lovely, natural glow.
3.Comfort From Menstrual Cramps
Yes, this aromatic oil can be helpful for you if you experience menstrual discomfort. As it’s rich in anti-inflammatory properties, lavender oil can help reduce menstrual pain. Moreover, the oil soothes the prostaglandins that control pain & uterine contractions.
4. Accelerates Wound Healing Action
Lavender essential oil benefits include faster wound healing in the body. The oil is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it promotes wound healing by aiding in granular tissue formation. Therefore using lavender oil is excellent for healing minor burns and cuts.
5. Lavender Oil Good For Skin
Lavender oil benefits for the skin include better skin health. Due to its antimicrobial and hydrating properties, Lavender oil is helpful in treating various skin issues like – acne, wrinkles, eczema, and dry skin. Furthermore, it can also be helpful in skin lightening.
Also Read:- Home Remedies for Skin Problems
6. Improve Sleep Quality
If you struggle with sleep issues, then lavender oil might be the perfect natural remedy. The oil has a calming effect on the central nervous system. Additionally, it also promotes slow-wave sleep (deep relaxation sleep). This Consequently improves sleep in the long run.
7. Good For Stress & Anxiety Management
Various uses of lavender to cure stress and anxiety are not unknown. Lavender oil has a direct impact on the brain’s limbic system. This directly reduces stress and anxiety levels in a person. So, the next time you’re feeling anxious, keep lavender oil handy!
8. Reduces Pain & Inflammation
Lavender oil has strong antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It numbs pain and protects from harmful invading microbes. Beta-caryophyllene is a compound in the oil. This compound is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that protects the body from allergies.
9. Lavender Oil Benefits For Hair
Lavender oil advantages for hair are countless. First, the oil can stimulate hair growth and repair. It is also suitable for other hair issues like dry scalps, dandruff, itchy scalp, hair thinning, etc.
Also Read:- Home Remedies for White Hair
Lavender Oil Uses
Lavender oil is an incredibly versatile oil. This aromatic oil has many important uses. Let us have a good look at some of the interesting uses of lavender oil.
1. As A Salt Substitute
Lavender oil has a lovely taste with a floral undertone. It is used as a substitute for salt in many dishes to add depth and flavor to the dishes.
2. As A Cleaning Agent.
Yes, lavender oil is also successfully used as a cleaning agent. It is due to antimicrobial properties. For cleaning it is usually mixed with water. Therefore, it disinfects and gives a pleasant smell to your house!
3. For Aromatherapy
Lavender oil is well-known for its pleasant floral smell. This property is put to use in aromatherapy. It is incredibly beneficial to help relieve headaches, insomnia, etc.
Lavender Oil Nutrition Facts
Lavender oil is a hugely popular essential oil, but that doesn’t deter the fact that it may also have some nutritional values. Read on to know more about lavender oil nutrition.
1 Tablespoon of Lavender Oil Contains the Following–
| Nutrition | Nutrition Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Fats | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Proteins | 0 g |
Lavender Oil Side Effects
Now, after a brief read of this article, you are familiar with lavender essential oil uses and benefits. Although this wondrous oil has many benefits, unavoidable side effects cannot be overlooked. Here are some of the lavender oil side effects that one should know.
1. Cause Skin Irritation
Applying lavender oil directly to the skin might not be a good idea. It can cause skin irritation. Some symptoms to look out for are Redness, itchy skin, soreness, etc.
Note – Always apply lavender oil with carrier oil on the skin.
2. Harmful Drug Interactions
Lavender oil may cause severe skin irritation when combined with certain drugs. Some of them are – Sedatives, Blood-thinning drugs, Benzodiazepines, & Cholesterol-lowering drugs.
Note – Avoid using lavender oil if you’re on the above-mentioned medications.
3. Toxic When Ingested Orally
Due to its solid anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, lavender oil is might be toxic when taken orally. Therefore, it is best to avoid drinking lavender oil.
4. May Cause headaches.
While lavender oil has sedative properties, unfortunately, excessive usage may cause issues like vomiting, headaches, nausea, dizziness, etc. If you experience any of the following symptoms, discontinue using lavender oil immediately.
Conclusion
Lavender oil is an aromatic essential oil that is extracted from the lavender plant. It is used extensively in aromatherapy and in many cuisines. Fortunately, this magnificent oil has many health benefits like improved digestion, enhanced skin and hair health, better sleep, and more. So, make sure to grab yourself a bottle of Lavender oil on your next shopping adventure!
