"Back to Basics" - Top Ten Single Oils - Lavender

Today is day two of my new series, "Back to Basics".

Lavender, the "monster repellent" 

Lavender

Lavender oil, also know as Lavandula angustifolia, is extracted from the flower of the plant through the steam distillation extraction method. The main chemical components are Linalool and linalyl acetate.

linalyl acetate

doTERRA's science blog has published multiple articles involving linalool, which is found in other essential oils such as basil, cilantro, coriander, and clary sage. The results of many of these studies show that linalool has the ability to relax blood vessel (important for cardiovascular health)*, reduce feelings of depression*, and positively change the genes in our immune system.* Check out the article links below for more information.

Lavender is an ancient plant that was used as a perfume and for bathing by Romans and Egyptians. It's primary benefits include soothing skin irritations, promoting sleep*, and easing feelings of tension and anxiety*. 

linalool

My favorite way to use lavender is in a diffuser. Just the smell of lavender helps to calm and relax anyone in my family*. You can also place a few drops on your pillow and your big toes before bed to help reduce anxiety* and promote restful sleep. I also fill a 16oz glass bottle and add 30 drops of lavender oil to create an air freshener that can be used in my closet, car, or as "monster repellent" for my kids. :)

Like lemon oil, lavender can be used aromatically, topically, and internally and it is gentle enough to be used neat (not diluted). If you use essential oils on little kids, you should ALWAYS dilute.

Lavender

Links:

doTERRA Science Blog: Linalool may bring about relaxation of blood vessel

doTERRA Science Blog: Reduce sad feelings with linalool and beta-pinene

doTERRA Science Blog: Lavender and the Immune System
Lavender product information page
Buy glass bottle for "monster repellent" here
Buy Lavender here

Research:

Cruz, A.B., Lee, S.E., Pagaduan, J.C., & Kim, T.H. (2001). Effects of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.) and peppermint (Mentha   cordifolia Opiz.) aromas on subjective vitality, speed and agility. Asia Life Sciences-The Asian International Journal of Life Sciences, 21(1), 31 - 37. Retrieved from http://journals.uplb.edu.ph/index.php/ALS/index

Knasko, S. C. (1992). Ambient odor's effect on creativity, mood, and perceived health. Chemical Senses, 17(1), 27 - 35. doi:10.1093/chemse/17.1.27

Kondoh, T., Yamada, S., Shioda, S., & Torii, K. (2005). Central olfactory pathway in response to olfactory stimulation in rats detected by magnetic resonance imaging. Chemical Senses, 2(30 Supplement 1), 172 173. doi:10.1093/chemse/bjh169

Lane, A., Boecklemann, A., Woronuk, G.N., Sarker, L., & Mahmoud, S.S. (2010). A genomics resource for investigation regulation of   essential oil production in Lavandula angustifolia. Planta, 231(4), 835 - 845. doi:10.1007/s00425-009-1090-4

Raguso, R.A., & Pichersky, E.. (1999). New Perspectives in pollination biology: Floral fragrances. A day in the life of a linalool   molecule: Chemical communication in a plant-pollinator system. Part 1: Linalool biosynthesis in flowering plants. Plant Species Biology, 14(2), 95 - 120. doi:10.1046/j.1442-1984.1999.00014.x

CAUTIONS: Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. 

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.