Most people think of lavender as little more than a garden flower helpful to prepare perfume for old ladies. A little research on the history of lavender lavender essential oil refutes this misconception. Throughout history it has been heralded as possessing almost mystical medicinal and cosmetic value. It was one of the ingredients used by the Egyptians for embalming. Greek doctors claimed that medicines extracted from the flowers were being instrumental in curing the plague.

The word "lavender" itself is quite likely derived from the Latin, and actually means to wash or to clean. Acknowledging its antiseptic properties, Roman surgeons used ointments made from the plant to treat wounds on the battlefield and in the gladiator ring. The Romans so cherished the plant that bouquets adorned each and every home. They bathed in it, spread it lavishly over their bodies, and wore it as garlands and crowns. It turned out to be even reputed to be a potent aphrodisiac.

As civilizations developed a better understanding of the medical benefits of cleanliness and hygiene, lavender extracts has been widely used as antiseptic cleaning products in public bathhouses and sick rooms. It eliminated odors and reduced the risk of spreading infections. The banner heralding the many applications of this fragile plant was taken up by the Arabs, who passed it on to Spain.

By the Thirteenth century, use of lavender oil had traveled north to France and even England where it was grown by Monks under Papal decree. It was the main ingredient in the original French perfume. It was used at the Royal courts to rejuvenate linens and undergarments. Queens and Kings had lavender sewn into sweet bags and pillows to cure migraines. By the Fifteenth century it could be located in every kitchen garden and apothecary shop in Europe.

Creams and ointments including lavender essential oil as the "active ingredient" are made use of for the topical relief of insect bites, poison ivy rashes and ringworm. Lavender oil is commonly helpful to treat chronic skin conditions like psoriasis, acne and athletes foot. It is reputed to heal burns and cuts as well as diminish scars, stretch-marks and cellulite.

Lavender essential oil has been the subject of research in Vienna, Austria. Scientists evaluated the effect of intake of 2 drops of the oil in a capsule, taken once daily for 10 weeks. The capsule proved to be considerably more effective at reducing mild-to-moderate anxiety. This was much better than the placebo, and as effective as commonly prescribed sedative drugs.

Holistic professionals claim that medicines taken from the flowers and leaves are beneficial in the treatment of circulatory conditions. Research implies that taken in the form of tea it can reduce high blood pressure as well as heart palpitations. Surprisingly, this health benefit seems to closely relate to the stress-reducing actions of the oil.

In modern aromatherapy approach, the oil's stress-reducing actions are gained by using the oil in a diffuser or even massage lotion. It's healing actions for the skin and scalp allow it to be a very common component in facial serums, soaps, shampoos and conditioners. The overall actions of lavender are quite diverse, and it's no wonder it is one of the most popular essential oil used today.

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