Lavender, Spike

Description

Latin name: Lavandula latifolia
Country of origin: France
Part of the plant: Flowering tops
Obtained by: Steam distilled
Main biochemical components*: Linalol, 1,8 cineole, camphor
Properties: Antiseptic, analgesic, decongestant, antidepressant.

Why Use

Physical uses: Respiratory congestion, bronchitis, sinusitis, sore throat, cough, tonsillitis, colds, flu, infections, muscle aches, stiff joints, headaches, immune support.

Skin care uses: Blemishes, insect bites, and stings, small wounds, burns, minor skin infections.

Psychological uses: Mental fatigue, mental fog.

Subtle uses: Clears energy blocks. Brings in positive energy.

Notes: Avoid Lavender, Spike with high blood pressure. Avoid during pregnancy and nursing.

*Chemical components: Chemical component percentages may vary. Essential 3 offers a Certificate of Analysis for review.

Which One to Choose Lavender (E. Europe), Lavender (France), or Lavender Spike?
Similarities: All true lavenders (Lavandula angustifolia) have a fresh, sweet, soft, herbaceous, floral aroma. Lavender (E. Europe) and Lavender (France) are somewhat interchangeable in their uses -being versatile for skin care and for calming the nervous system.

Differences: Lavender (E. Europe) has a rich yet mellow floral, fruity scent. Since it’s lower in cost, it’s a popular option for skin and beauty care or household uses. Lavender (France) grows at higher altitudes and has a slightly more intense floral note with balsamic undertones. Its therapeutic qualities make it a good choice for treating inflammation, insomnia, reducing stress, and cuts and scrapes. Lavender Spike is distinct for its fresh, sharp, camphoraceous aroma. This makes it ideal for respiratory issues as well as muscle conditions and immune support.

How You Can Use

After Shower: After showering, while your skin is still wet, put 1-3 drops of essential oil in the palm of one of your hands and rub your hands together. Quickly and evenly spread the essential oil over your legs, arms, and torso. Avoid sensitive skin areas. For maximum skin hydration and to seal in moisture, apply cream, lotion, or body oil directly to damp skin.

Bath: Mix 4-8 drops of essential oil in 1 teaspoon of carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil. (You can also add the essential oil to 1/2 cup of whole milk or heavy cream.) Set aside. If you have muscle aches, add 1-2 cups Epsom or Dead sea salts. Fill the tub with warm water and immerse yourself. Add the essential oil mixture and swirl the water around you. Massage your skin and breathe in the aroma. Remain in the tub for 10-15 minutes.

Bath, Foot: Mix 1-3 drops of essential oil in 1/2 teaspoon of carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil. Set aside. Fill a tub (deep enough to cover your feet and ankles) with warm water. Add the essential oil mixture, stir well, and immerse your feet for 10-15 minutes. Breathe in the aroma and massage your feet.

Chest Rub: Mix 5-15 drops of essential oil in 1 tablespoon of carrier oil or fragrance-free, natural lotion, apply to your upper chest and upper back.

Compress: Fill a basin with water. (Warm water relaxes and increases circulation. Cool water invigorates and relieves inflammation.) Add 3-5 drops of essential oil and briskly stir. Lay in a washcloth, wring and apply to the area in need for approximately 1-5 minutes. Dip, wring and apply 3 more times.

Diffusion: Follow the diffuser manufacturer’s instructions to fill the air with a therapeutic aroma.
Easy alternatives when you don’t have a diffuser:
Place 2-4 drops of essential oil on several cotton balls or tissues; place nearby or tuck into the fan grate or air vent in your home or car.

Inhalation: Put 1-3 drops of essential oil on a tissue and inhale the aroma through your nose. Pause and inhale again.
(Avoid touching your nose with the tissue.)

Inhalation, Hot Water: Add 1-2 drops of essential oil to a small bowl of hot water. Keeping your eyes tightly closed, lean over the bowl and breathe in deeply yet gently, pause then exhale. Continue for 30 seconds. Inhale through your nose for respiratory or sinus conditions and through your mouth for throat issues or coughs. Repeat as desired.

Massage: Mix 6-30 drops of essential oil in 1 ounce of carrier oil or fragrance-free, natural lotion.

Room Mist: Mix 30-60 drops of essential oil in 4 ounces of water in a mister bottle. Shake well before each use and avoid getting the mist into the eyes.

Spot Application: Mix 1-4 drops of essential oil in 1 teaspoon of carrier oil or aloe vera and apply to the area in need.

The Methods of Use are general guidelines. Individual sensitivities, desired results, and the characteristics of the essential oil(s) used must all be considered. Adjust methods and proportions accordingly.

For external use only. Always dilute before use. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid eyes and other sensitive areas. Keep away from direct flame – essential oils are flammable. If pregnant or nursing, consult a physician before using essential oils. Store at room temperature and avoid direct sunlight.

Aromatherapy: The use of natural, aromatic substances, known as essential oils, to enhance the well-being of body, mind, and spirit. (This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. No information provided is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.)