Medicinal Properties and uses of Lavender

Lavender, an herb native to the Mediterranean area, has been used as medicine since Biblical times. As late as World War I, lavender was used in the treatment and disinfectant of wounds and as an disinfectant cleaner in hospitals. It became famous in the early 1900's when a French chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, was accidentally caught on fire while working in a laboratory. After putting out the fire he stuck his burned hands into a vat of lavendar oil. It brought instant relief from the pain. His burns healed quicker than normal and with very little scarring. It eliminates many kinds of pain. It is used for muscle and joint pain, postoperative pain, rheumatism, lumbago, burns, sunburns, itching, back pain, radiation therapy, and cancer. It is good for the treatment of fevers, boils, abscesses, swelling, bug bites, bee stings, yeast infections, fungal infections, flu, colds, sore throats, eczema, psoriasis. and The FDA in the United States has been very slow about testing or approving herbal medicines. Other countries are starting to study, approve, and use lavender to treat patients for many different ailments and illnesses. Germany's Commission E has approved lavender for insomnia, relaxation, and restlessness treatments. They have also approved it for treatment of many stomach problems. It helps with digestion, stomach pain, colic, gas, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The University of Leicester in England determined that lavender is as effective as any of the other medicines used to help patients sleep soundly. Patients are offered lavender pillows in most British hospitals. It has long been believed that lavender's calming scent is good for treatment of headaches, migraines, tension, stress, anxiety, restlessness, exhaustion, and depression. English farmers put lavender in their hats to prevent headaches and sunstroke. Ladies used it on handkerchiefs to help calm their nerves. The University of Maryland Medical Center announced that, inhaled, lavender has a "slight calming, soothing, and sedative effect." It increases mental activity and induces sleep. The Smell and Taste Foundation in Chicago, Illinois discovered that the scent increases brainwaves that are known to stimulate relaxation. Studies have shown that it has a calming effect on dementia patients. Lavender essential oil, mixed with the essential oils of rosemary, thyme, cedarwood, jojoba, and grapeseed were proven in a study to help eliminate bald spots in patients with alopecia. While the EPA says it may not be safe for pregnant women or nursing mothers to use lavender therapy, British studies suggest it can help with the comfort of pregnancy. It is helpful during labor, childbirth, speeds the healing process, and postpartum depression. Like any other medication, it can sometimes have side effects. Some people may have allergic reactions. It could react with other medications, so consult a knowledgable medical professional. Lavender may not safe for use with young boys that have not yet reached puberty. The "New England Journal of Medicine" reported in 2007 that lavender used in shampoos, soaps, and other products may cause breast development in boys. Photo by Andyblind

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