Lavender essential oil from high elevation

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Our Fine High Alpine Lavender essential oil, produced from flowers naturally grown in the mountain regions of France, is considered the most exquisite of this variety. It is the same plant species as other Lavenders, simply extracted from specimens grown in its native higher elevations where the plant tends to produce the greatest amount of the fragrant oil.

Lavender grown at high altitudes also tend to produce more 'linalool', a natural constituent of many essential oils that has been the subject of many studies involving improved sleep, lowering anxiety and lessening stress. We've sampled several Lavenders, and found this one to be very 'complete', with a great depth to its aroma. Its aroma is somewhat more earthy compared to our wildcrafted variety.

Lavender in general is the most versatile aromatic oil used in aromatherapy today, often called 'medicine chest in a bottle' - no wonder it is suggested it be included in every aromatherapy kit. The essential oil is a nearly colorless, with a fragrant, sweet floral-herbaceous scent and a slight woody undertone. Lavender blends well with most oils, especially citrus like Sweet Orange, florals like Ylang Ylang and Geranium, and with woody scents like Cedarwood, and Pine.

Lavender essential oil is highly regarded for its relaxing effect on the nervous system, with an overall balancing effect on the mind and the emotions. Besides being versatile, its lightly floral and soothing scent is one that most people find appealing, and is often used as a perfume. It is also one of the few essential oils that can be safely applied neat in all situations (i.e. without being diluted in a carrier oil - another notable exception being Roman Chamomile). Applying directly to the feet can have a wonderful calming effect on many individuals. Adding to a foot bath can have a marked effect on relieving fatigue. Lavender has been studied for its ability to help restful, deep sleep; one clinical report noted Lavender oil to be better than Valium in helping folks get a good night's rest. One can diffuse Lavender in their bedroom or just sprinkle a few drops on the sheets for this effect.

Lavender is one of the few oils still listed in the British Pharmacopoeia; it is highly regarded for it's ability to promote tissue regeneration and speed wound healing in some cases. This oil truly began the

modern essential oil revolution - It was in the middle of the last century that the term 'Aromatherapy' was coined by French cosmetic chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse - Dr. Gattefosse discovered the healing properties of Lavender when, after burning his hands in a laboratory accident, he submersed them in the flower's essential oil. His amazingly speedy recovery prompted him to write his book 'Aromatherapy' in 1937. Now we don't recommend you try this at home - though we'd love to hear of your ways you enjoy this wonderful oil!

Lavender is one of the most simple essential oils to gain benefits from. It is most often used in a diffuser for improved sleep, but it is just as simple to sprinkle a few drops of the oil on the bed sheets before retiring. Use just one drop under the pillow for children. Lavender is also a perfect oil to have with you throughout the day ~ we've noticed a quick and significant change in attitudes under stressful situations after inhaling its aroma. Lavender has a very healing effect on skin as well; it seems the same soothing it brings to the mind and emotions also happens to the skin. It can be used 'neat' (undiluted) to immediately reduce the pain of burns, mixed 50:50 with Tea Tree for an excellent soothing antiseptic (apply directly or onto a band-aid). It is also called for in many skin and hair recipes at concentrations between 1% and 3%.

Linalool, the primary natural constituent of Lavender essential oil has recently been the subject of a study for anti-cancer activity. Linalool was shown to have potent anti-tumorial effects on a commonly studied Liver cancer cell line. The results were summarized thusly: Linalool was the most potent and HepG2 cells the most sensitive. A 50% and 100% decrease in the viability of HepG2 was obtained at 0.4muM and 2muM linalool, respectively. This is a VERY low concentration of linalool -- while this does not describe a protocol of the use of Lavender essential oil for anti-cancer applications, it does show the as yet untapped potential of essential oils as medicine.

Linalool is considered the sweet component of Lavender's aroma. There have been many studies produced describing the anti-anxiety effects of Linalool -- even a study showing it can significantly lower aggression in animals, and more than likely humans as well. And besides aggression, its an excellent choice for helping kids calm down, and just generally 'taking the edge off'. This High Alpine variety is really a very nice oil -- many folks consider it their favorite Lavender.

Suggested

Uses of Lavender: Diffuse or apply topically. Lavender essential oil is considered among the safest oils in aromatherapy, and can be applied undiluted to the skin. Has a wide range of uses. Use as a perfume or

as you would a deodorant. Safe for children; can be taken internally. Effective on burns, insect bites and small cuts. A few drops in water 15 minutes before a meal can significantly reduce appetite.

Possible Actions: Traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory, balancing, relieves pain, calming, relaxing.

Possible

Indications: Lavender essential oil can be supportive in cases of anxiety, stress; small burns, cuts, insect bites.

Cautions: Always test a small amount first for sensitivity or allergic reaction. Very safe oil. If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult a physician.

GRAS/FA Status:

What is this? Listed GRAS. Read more...

Blends and

Recipes: Blends well with most oils (especially Orange, Lemon, Chamomile, Clary Sage and Geranium), and creates 'harmony' in essential oil blends.

About

Ananda Aromatherapy

Essential Oils: All oils from Ananda Aromatherapy are therapeutic grade, meaning they are produced to the highest quality standards possible. Our essential oils are chosen for their integrity (all chemical constituents important for aromatherapy are intact), ecological 'soundness' (most are organic or wild grown), and wonderful aromas. You may order a sample of any oil before trying larger amounts. Most samples are about .75ml; exotic oils such as Melissa, Rose, Angelica and Jasmine are only a few drops. Ananda Aromatherapy offers wholesale essential oils direct to you. We forgo the use of separate wholesale and retail tiers in order to keep fine therapeutic grade oils accessible to everyone!