If there's an oil known by those who have no idea what an essential oil is, it's lavender. The flowering tops are steam-distilled to make the oils, harvested from fields in Utah, Idaho and France. The latter location is appropriate. The French scientist René Gattefossé discovered lavender's ability to promote tissue regeneration and to speed wound healing first hand, so to speak. He was severely burned as a result of a laboratory accident, and the lovely lavender came to his aid.

Lavender has a calming, relaxing and balancing effect on the physical body as well as on the emotions. Much scientific research has been published about lavender's effects on mood and stress. One such article is found in the International Journal of Neuroscience. Subjects were tested on their ability to perform simple math computations before and after 3 minutes of aromatherapy with either lavender (a relaxing odor) or rosemary (a stimulating odor). The rosemary group's EEG patterns after aromatherapy showed increased alertness and they answered questions faster, but not more accurately. The lavender group was more relaxed after aromatherapy, and performed the computations faster and more accurately.

Young Living's instructions for Lavender:

Topical: Apply 2–4 drops directly to desired area. Dilution not required, except for the most sensitive skin. Use as needed.

Aromatic: Diffuse up to 1 hour 3 times daily

Internally (Lavender Vitality): Put 2 drops in a capsule. Take 3 times daily.

Suggested Recipes

• Treat yourself to this well-loved aroma by adding a few drops of oil to lotions, shampoos, and skin care products.
• Create a spa-like retreat by combining 1 cup Epsom salt and 4 drops oil and adding to a hot bath.
• Make a basic homemade body scrub with coconut oil, sugar, and Lavender essential oil.
• Unwind with a Lavender-infused neck or back massage.
• Use Lavender as part of your evening routine. Rub oil on the bottom of your feet before bed or spritz your pillow with distilled water and Lavender mixed in a spray bottle.
• Create a DIY room freshener with Lavender or diffuse it to banish stale odors.
• Make homemade fruit jams infused with Lavender Vitality essential oil. Try mixing it with blueberry, apricot, raspberry, or peach jams and jellies.
• Combine Lavender Vitality’s earthy, low notes with bright citrus flavors. Experiment with lavender-lemonade or a citrus sorbet.
• Complement dairy with Lavender Vitality in shortbread, pound cake, ice cream, meringue, or whipped cream recipes.
• Balance Lavender Vitality in savory dishes with herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano.

What are your favorite uses for Lavender? Share in the comments!

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