Top Ten Uses of Lavender

1. A relaxant

The soothing and relaxing properties of lavender have earned it the name ‘Mothering oil’. A few drops onto a tissue/handkerchief or in a bath, or mixed with carrier oil for a massage, can ease away stress and aid a good night’s sleep.

2. Headaches and migraines

Lavender oil is mildly analgesic and a few neat drops of lavender oil gently massaged onto the temples may help stop the pounding in your head.

3. Burns and sunburn

Lavender oil is an anti-inflammatory and can be used to cool, relieve and help heal burns and sunburn. A few drops applied to the affected area can do the trick. Alternatively, for a cooling affect, add a few drops to mineral water and spray onto the skin.

4. Cuts, grazes and scars

With its strong wound-healing properties, lavender oil can be used on minor cuts and grazes, simply by dabbing a few drops straight onto the affected area. Added to carrier oil, it can also be regularly massaged onto scar tissue.

5.Spots and skin irritations

Lavender oil is also anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. Used neat or added to water or creams, for cleansing the skin, preventing and healing sebaceous spots and irritations.

6. Insect repellent & stings

Used neat or in a burner, lavender oil (particularly the oil from lavandin) can effectively repel insects. Added to carrier oil, it can also be rubbed onto the skin. In addition, the oil can help to heal and soothe bites and stings, including nettle stings.

7. External pain and inflammation

Used neat or in massage oil, lavender oil’s mildly analgesic properties may help to relieve niggling aches and pains.

8. Mouth, gum and throat infections, and halitosis

Oral infections can be aided by mixing a few drops of lavender oil with water and gargling, to let the anti-bacterial properties get to work.

9. Respiratory problems

To help alleviate respiratory complaints, such as bronchitis and asthma, add a few drops of lavender oil to a small bowl of hot steaming water and inhale the steam.

10. A general disinfectant

The anti-bacterial properties of lavender oil make it useful, not only for your body, but also for your home. Add a few drops to detergents and water for jobs like cleaning the floor, or use in a diffuser to purify the air.


Lavender oil can be, and is frequently, used neat. However, in some individuals it can cause harm if used inappropriately and indiscriminately. We STRONGLY SUGGEST CAUTION if you DO NOT have experience of its use. Please read up carefully on the subject or consult a qualified aromatherapist or doctor. Please be aware that use of Lavender is complimentary care and you should always consult your doctor if you have health concerns.

Some other articles that may be on interest on Lavender and its used in healing and well-being.

Lavender Essential Oil Profile
Author: Angela England

Lavender's Healing Properties: a natural analgesic, anti-depressant and anti-inflammatory
Author: Elaine Moore

Last Updated: September 28, 2007