Medicinal Purposes of Lavender Plants

Relaxation

• According to the University of Maryland, lavender is commonly used for relaxation. Filling a pillow with lavender flowers can help insomnia, improve sleep quality and improve mood. Creating a tea out of the lavender flowers is another way to promote relaxation. Lavender's relaxation qualities can also promote better concentration, eliminate headaches and reduce agitation, especially in patients who are experiencing dementia. Nervous stomachs can also be calmed by ingesting lavender.

Blood and Nerves

• The Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders shows that lavender has a positive effect on the blood and body. The coumarins in the lavender dilate blood vessels. They also have been known to control spasms and other nerve disorders. Loss of appetite can also be helped by lavender. Weakness, palpitations, faintness and colic can all be soothed by lavender, because it is a relaxes the muscles and nerves. Lavender also relieves toothaches and sprains and promotes nerve control.

Antibacterial and Antiseptic

• Sores and fungal infections can also be treated with lavender oil. The oil can be administered as an antibacterial agent to clean and heal wounds, acne and even eczema. Dry skin, burns, bites, bruises and scalded skin can also be helped with lavender. Taking a bath in lavender oil or massaging it into the skin reduces joint and muscle pain. Lavender is also used for controlling pain after surgeries, according to the University of Maryland. Lavender oil should not be used on open wounds.

Dosage

• Children should never take lavender oil orally. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, male children should not use lavender oil shampoo, lotion or soaps, because it causes fatty tissue to grow around their breasts. Inhaling the vapors of two to four drops of lavender oil placed in boiling water can help with headaches, insomnia, and depression in children. Adults can steep one to two teaspoons of lavender flowers in boiling water for ten minutes, creating a soothing tea. Adults can also inhale the mixture and acquire similar results as children who inhale the vapor. Lavender oil does not have to be diluted to use topically in adults, but is should never be taken orally.

Warnings

• Lavender oil by itself is mildly toxic if it is ingested, and it can cause vomiting. Be careful to watch the dosage of lavender oil or use lavender flowers in the place of oil for foods and tonics that are ingested. Lavender, like other herbs, is not regulated by the USDA, so it is not tested for safety and effectiveness. Different manufacturers have different dosages and concentrations of lavender oil in their products. This should be taken into account before lavender oil is used.