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Common Names for Lavender -- lavender, English lavender, garden lavender

Latin Name for Lavender -- Lavandula angustifolia

Lavender is native to the Mediterranean region. It was used in ancient Egypt as part of the process for mummifying bodies. Lavender's use as a bath additive originated in Persia, Greece, and Rome. The herb's name comes from the Latin lavare, which means "to wash."

• Historically, lavender was used as an antiseptic and for mental health purposes.
• Today, the herb is used for conditions such as anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, and depression.
• Lavender is also used for headache, upset stomach, and hair loss.

Lavender is most commonly used in aromatherapy, in which the scent of the essential oil from the flowers is inhaled. The essential oil can also be diluted with another oil and applied to the skin. Lavender Oil by Nature's Alchemy comes highly recommended. It contains no chemical solvents, alcohol, or other extenders. It is gentle enough to use on babies 3 months and older and is wonderful for helping the elderly fall asleep. Because Lavender Essential Oil is concentrated, you will only need to use one or two drops when needed.

Another outstanding Lavender oil is Lavender Fine AOC Pure Essential Oil, which has long been considered the wonder oil of essential oils because of its versatility. This Lavender oil is good for all skin types, even sensitive skin, and can be used undiluted topically.

Place one drop of Lavender Essential Oil on your pillow to promote a deep and restful sleep, or rub a drop or two on the bottoms of your feet to promote relaxation and help boost the immune system. If you inhale the oil straight from the bottle when nervous, anxious or under stress, the oil will help to calm. Spray Lavender Essential Oil in the air or on linens to help purify and refreshen.

Dried lavender flowers can be used to make teas or liquid extracts that can be taken by mouth.

Lavender Liquid Soap is the only soap-in-a-bottle that brings you the incredible moisture renewal system of Olive Oil and Vitamin E, the natural fresh scent of Lavender of Provence, the soothing comfort of Aloe Vera and selected botanical extracts. There is no other liquid soap like it!

For a body wash, Lavender Satin Body Wash by Jason Cosmetics contains delicate extracts of Lavender with the relaxing qualities of Chamomile and Avocado. Apricot and Vitamin E are concentrated into a formula of unequaled quality. Use a capful of this lavishly fragranced, bubbling bath for your bath.

Small studies on lavender for anxiety show results. Some preliminary results indicate that lavender oil, combined with oils from other herbs, may help with hair loss from a condition called alopecia areata.

• Topical use of diluted lavender oil or use of lavender as aromatherapy is generally considered safe for most adults.
• Lavender oil is poisonous if taken by mouth.
• When lavender teas and extracts are taken by mouth, they may cause headache, changes in appetite, and constipation.
• Using lavender with sedative medications may increase drowsiness.
• Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

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Disclaimer: The herbal and health information provided in this Web Site is intended as information only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Nothing listed within this Web Site should be considered as medical advice for dealing with a given problem. You should consult your health care professional for individual guidance for specific health problems. Persons with serious medical conditions should always seek professional care.