6 Natural Health Benefits of Lavender
Think this herb just smells good? Think again! Here are 6 powerful health benefits of lavender…
You may think of lavender as a sweet-smelling herb that keeps your wardrobe smelling fresh, but did you know that lavender actually has some potent health benefits? The flowers of the lavender plant may be used whole or ground, and the essential oils are often extracted and used in various products skincare and aromatherapy products.
Beyond aromatherapy, lavender (a member of the mint family) is also edible, and can be used in teas and other food preparations. Lavender is commonly used in personal care products such as lotions and soaps as well, and its gentle aroma is thought to promote better sleep when applied to your pillow before hitting the hay.
Here are 5 other natural health benefits that lavender may provide:
#1: Bug Repellent
Lavender oil is the perfect natural alternative to harmful bug repellents. The scent of lavender oil is too strong for many types of insects, including mosquitoes, midges, and moths.
If you have been bitten by a bug, rub a few drops of lavender oil onto your skin. This should relieve the irritation caused by the bite. Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory properties.
Next time you go out in the woods, keep a bottle of lavender oil in your natural first aid kit.
#2: Nervous System
Lavender’s soothing aroma is known to calm nerves and reduce anxiety. It helps provide symptom relief of migraines, depression, and emotional stress. The calming fragrance relaxes your nerves, while revitalizing your brain.
Studies found that people suffering from anxiety and stress before an exam had increased mental function after sniffing lavender oil.2)
#3: Immune System
According to the Journal of Medical Microbiology, “lavender shows a potent antifungal effect against strains of fungi responsible for common skin and nail infections.”3) Lavender has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which protect the body from diseases like TB, typhoid, and diphtheria.
#4: Digestive System
Lavender oil leads to better digestion by increasing the movement of food in the digestive track.
The oil stimulates your intestines and the production of bile and gastric juices. This helps with upset stomach, stomach pain, indigestion, gas, colic, vomiting, and diarrhea.5)
#5: Pain Relief
It can help with sore or tight muscles, joint pain, sprains, backache, and menstrual cramps.
For menstrual cramps, massage a few drops of lavender oil on your lower abdomen and apply a warm towel. Also, applying the oil on the bottom of your feet will help.
#6: Diabetes Treatment
In 2014, Scientists in Tunisia tested the effects of lavender oil on blood sugar levels to see if it would help with diabetes.
During their study, they found that lavender oil treatments protected the body from increased blood glucose, weight gain, and reduced liver and kidney function. Researchers were amazed to find that the radical antioxidant properties of lavender were more effective than Vitamin C.6)
Read more about the health benefits of lavender – plus some tips for growing your own – at TheGrowNetwork.com…
