Lavender anxiety relieving properties
Nothing reminds more of the gentlest of Spring like the expansive fields of lavender in the southern region of Provence: they make you want to run through them while soaking up the wonderful scent.
Aside from its beautifully shaped bud and its light purple color, lavender is a very versatile flower with a myriad of benefits especially for anxiety and stress. It has been used since antiquity for its soothing aroma to wash clothes, hence the name from the latin “lavare” which means “to wash”.
Spray lavender on the pillow can improve the quality of sleep.
The ancient Egyptians used it during the mummification process, but also as part of an aromatherapy routine where a few drops were added to bath water along with milk and other moisturizing ingredients to purify the body as well as the mind.
I personally love aromatherapy, but beyond the myth, and the lovely fragrance, let’s look into the scientific benefits of lavender:
First and foremost, it is really helpful for those suffering from insomnia and inhaling it right before bed or spraying some essence on the pillow, can also help improve the quality of sleep with some people reporting feeling refreshed after a good night.
It has been proven to be incredibly effective in treating anxiety with some studies even reporting that orally administered lavender oil in capsules - not the essential oil - had the same results of anxiety drugs like lorazepam.
Lastly, it helps reduce migraines. Inhaling lavender essential oil for 15 minutes can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.
Whether you inhale essential oils, drink lavender tea, or take ingestible capsules the effects of lavender can be felt after as little as two weeks. In the longer run it has been found to help with depression as well as postpartum depression, although, like with most natural remedies, more studies need to be done.
I recently bought fresh lavender flowers, which I tested for purity by looking at the intensity of the color after steeping it for a few minutes, and started drinking it anytime I feel I need to wind down.
One of my other favorite products to relieve anxiety, especially if I am traveling, is The Daily with magnesium, that promote relaxation, and PMS & Period support with ashwagandha and other stress relieving adaptogens.
Try it and let us know what you think!
