Contents
- 1 Benefits of lavender essential oil
- 1.1 What is lavender essential oil like?
- 1.2 Characteristics of lavender essential oil
- 1.3 Medicinal properties of lavender essential oil
- 1.4 What are the main uses of lavender essential oil?
- 1.5 Toxicity and side effects of lavender essential oil
- 1.6 Symptoms of poisoning with lavender essential oil
- 1.7 Is external use of lavender essential oil safe?
- 1.8 Contraindications of lavender essential oil
Benefits of lavender essential oil
What is lavender essential oil like?
Fragrance of lavender essential oil varies according to altitude where it is grown.
High altitude oils are more sharp and with fresh aromas; low altitude are sweeter and softer.
Currently, lavender is grown in abundance in several countries (UK, South of France, Tasmania, New Zealand and Bulgaria).
Characteristics of lavender essential oil
- Generally soft
- Sweet and floral
- Camphor-like
- A little sharp
Medicinal properties of lavender essential oil
- Cleaner.
- Stress releaser
- Excellent restful for tired muscles
- Healing, ideal for skin regeneration
What are the main uses of lavender essential oil?
Among the main uses, we have the following:
- Soothes the pain of burns
- Cuts
- Insect bites
- Headaches, migraines
- Irritated skin.
Toxicity and side effects of lavender essential oil
Therapeutic preparations of lavender essential oil generally have no contraindications.
The therapeutic dose consists on using from 2 to 4 drops. 2 to 3 times daily, diluted in water, other oils or sugar
Used in higher doses is toxic and can be fatal.
Symptoms of poisoning with lavender essential oil
The first manifestations are central nervous system excitation with possible hallucinations.
This state may change into a depressive phase dominated by its narcotic effects. At this stage there is and increase of heart rate and respiratory parameters.
The final effects can range from a simple headache to nausea, vomiting or other gastrointestinal problems, convulsions and death from cardiac arrest.
Doses higher than 1 g, of the essential oil produces general anesthesia.
Is external use of lavender essential oil safe?
Topical application of essential oil may cause some people sensitive eczema or contact dermatitis.
It is advisable to carry out small tests to determine tolerability.
Never use lavender essential oil directly onto the skin. This should be diluted with water or other oils.
Contraindications of lavender essential oil
The use of essential oil is contraindicated in:
- Pregnancy because it may be abortive
- Breast feeding
- Gastrointestinal problems (gastritis, gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, or presence of blood in the urine
More information on other essential oils and lavender
