3. Lavender: Properties, Uses, and Benefits
The lavender flower has a delicious aroma and is used for various purposes. Discover its properties, uses, and benefits.
Origins of lavender
The scientific name of lavender is Lavandula officinalis, Lavandula vera or Lavandula angustifolia. It is native to North Africa and the Mediterranean. It is a plant with violet flowers and from which essential oil is extracted.
Because of its aroma, it is widely used in France for the elaboration of perfumes. It is also used to develop aromatic candles, incense, cosmetics, and cleaning products.
Properties and benefits of lavender
This plant has relaxing, calming, antispasmodic, analgesic and digestive properties. Because of this, it is used to relieve stress, calm anxiety, and relax the nerves. In this sense, it promotes sleep, fights insomnia and relieves symptoms associated with depression.
On the other hand, due to its antispasmodic properties, it prevents gas and flatulence. As well as digestive problems associated with nervousness or stress. In addition, it reduces intestinal inflammation and relieves colic.
Also, its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action helps relieve skin irritations, reduces joint inflammation, and prevents the proliferation of bacteria on the skin.
Other uses
This plant is also used to prevent bad breath. In the same way, its oil diluted in water can be used to relieve inflammation and discomfort from insect bites. It can also be used for relaxing massages, as it helps to relieve tension and muscle pain.
In cosmetics, it is used in tonics to soothe the skin, creams to reduce irritation, redness, acne marks and scars. Likewise, it is used to perfume environments in incense, scented candles and air fresheners.
How to use it
Lavender can be taken in hot or cold infusions. The essential oil can be used in aromatherapy and topically diluted in water. Also, the flowers can be added to certain dishes. Also, in hair and skin cosmetics, several products already contain it.
Contraindications
Its use is not recommended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women. Nor is people suffering from epilepsy, gastric ulcers or allergic to lavender. If you suffer from any other pathology, consult your doctor before taking it. If you are not allergic to this flower, the essential oil is only recommended for aromatherapy or external use. If you are not sure, consult a dermatologist before use.