Did you know that….
Lavender is used extensively with herbs and aromatherapy.English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) yields an essential oil with sweet overtones, and can be used in balms, salves, perfumes, cosmetics, and topical applications. Lavandin, Lavandula × intermedia (also known as Dutch lavender), yields a similar essential oil, but with higher levels of terpenes including camphor, which add a sharper overtone to the fragrance. Mexican lavender, Lavandula stoechas is not used medicinally, but mainly for landscaping.
Essential oil of lavender has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It was used in hospitals during WWI to disinfect floors and walls. These extracts are also used as fragrances for bath products.
According to folk wisdom, lavender has many uses. Infusions of lavender soothes, heal insect bites and burns. Bunches of lavender repel insects. If applied to the temples, lavender oil soothes headaches. In pillows, lavender seeds and flowers aid sleep and relaxation. An infusion of three flowerheads added to a cup of boiling water soothes and relaxes at bedtime. Lavender oil (or extract of Lavender) heals acne when used diluted 1:10 with water, rosewater, or witch hazel; it also treats skin burns and inflammatory conditions.[citation needed]
A recent clinical study investigated anxiolytic effects and influence on sleep quality. Lavender oil with a high percentage of linalool and linalyl acetate, in form of capsules, was generally well tolerated. It showed meaningful efficacy in alleviating anxiety and related sleep disturbances.[9] In
(excerpted from the Essential Oils Desk Reference, 3rd edition)
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) Essential Oil
Anti-inflammatory, antitumoral, antiparasitic, antibacterial, gall bladder/digestive stimulant, pain-reliever, curbs appetite. Peppermint is also used for – rheumatism/arthritis, respiratory infections, cold sores, obesity, viral infections, fungal infctions/Candida, digestive problems, headaches, nausea, itchy skin, eczma, psoriasis, dermatitis, and back problems.
Peppermint’s Fragrant Influence:
Purifying and stimulating to the conscious mind. Dr. William N. Dember of the
Alan Hirsch,MD, researched peppermint’s stimulation of the brain’s satiety center (ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus) to curb appetite.
When inhaled, peppermint improves/restores the sense of taste by stimulating the trigeminal nerve. The
Cautions:
Avoid contact with eyes, mucus membranes, sensitive skin areas, open or fresh wounds or burns. Do not apply to infants less than 18 months of age.
Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia) Essential Oil
Antiseptic, antifungal, analgesic, antitumoral, anticonvulsant, relaxant, anit-inflammatory, reduces blood fat/cholesterol, combats excess sebum on skin. Lavender is also used for – respiratory infections, high blood pressure, menstral problems/PMS, skin conditions (perinial repair, acne, eczema, psoriasis, scarring), burns, hair loss, insomnia, and nervous tension.
Lavender’s Fragrant Influence:
Calming, relaxing, and balancing, both physically and emotionally. University researchers in
