Lavender is an evergreen herb growing in the form of a half-shrub. The number of species of this plant reaches forty. It is believed that lavender comes from the southern coast of France and Spain. But in our time this plant is distributed to many countries in Europe, North America and North Africa. All parts of the plant, starting from the stem, including leaves and flowers and ending with fruits, contain lavender oil. Spicy smell of lavender oil is not confused with anything. When using lavender oil, the following effects are noted:
- wound healing;
- persistent moisturizing of the skin;
- increase skin elasticity;
- purification;
- anti-inflammatory and disinfectant;
- strengthening of hair;
- smoothing wrinkles, pores and scars;
- deodorization.
Few historical facts
Lavender oil and its properties were known to the ancient Greek inhabitants. They used vegetable oils for bathing. The relaxation effect of baths with the addition of lavender oil is known to this day. In addition, the oil was added during the manufacture of soap, which improved the cleaning properties and had a moisturizing effect on the skin. Residents of the Roman Empire in ancient times found that lavender has antiseptic properties that helped to treat wounds and in some way disinfect the rooms of clinics, especially during epidemics.
Medieval Europe widely began to use lavender oil during the development of perfumes. As the sewerage and water supply were not yet available, hygienic measures were difficult to implement. Gradually, perfumes took a worthy place in the fight against the stench. Perfume gloves entered the fashion - they were soaked with oils of lavender, roses and other plants. Then lavender oil began to be used and from lice.
Application in cosmetology
People, whose skin is far from perfect, can try to use lavender oil for the face. This oil is universal, it is suitable for any type of skin. Dry and sensitive skin will simply change if you mix 2-3 drops of lavender oil with any base oil (for example, jojoba or coconut oil) and use this mixture as an evening mask. For skin care with the appearance of the first wrinkles, it is enough to add one drop of oil to a portion of the day cream.
Since this oil has an antiseptic effect, it can also be used for inflamed skin areas. Lavender oil helps with acne if it is applied pointwise to these areas with a cotton swab. Double action will be provided by mixing lavender oil with tea tree oil. Traces left on the skin after acne are also more effective and faster when lubricated with oil.
Lavender oil is often used as a means for hair. Dandruff, traumatic cuts of the scalp, excessive fat content - all these problems can be solved if you use lavender oil with hair care. The simplest way is to add 2-3 drops of oil to your usual shampoo portion when washing. In addition, nutritious oil masks are useful, for which lavender oil in an amount of 5-6 drops is mixed with any base oil and other nutritious products.
When should you not use oil?
Lavender oil during pregnancy is best not to apply. Especially in the first trimester. At later dates, it is possible to use oil in an aromatic lamp as a relaxation tool for sleeping problems. During breastfeeding, aromatic oils should also be left aside.
Lavender oil is still not a panacea and its use for persistent hypotension, some systemic diseases like diabetes, anemia is not permissible. With extreme caution should be used lavender oil and people with allergic status.