How to Relax With Pure Essential Lavender Oil

Lavender essential oil has a calming effect on some people.

Lavender essential oil is a prized possession among those who prefer natural treatments over chemicals and drugs because of the soothing, calming effect its scent has on many people. Aromas emitted from essential oils such as lavender can affect human stress levels, hormone production, clarity and overall sense of well-being. Lavender oil in particular is known for its relaxation purposes. A few drops on a cloth can help you through a stressful situation or even help you fall asleep at night.

Things You'll Need

• Pure lavender essential oil
• Candles (optional)
• Washcloth
• Cotton balls
• Tea light-style diffuser

Instructions

1. Fill a bathtub with warm water. Add five or six drops of lavender essential oil as the tub fills. Light candles around the bathroom and dim the lights if you find this more soothing than electric lights. Relax in the bath. Place a drop or two of lavender oil on a washcloth and sniff the cloth if you have a headache or feel stressed out. Soak and enjoy as long as desired.

2. Apply a drop or two of lavender essential oil to your wrists or back of your neck during a potentially stressful day. If your skin is sensitive, apply the oil instead to your clothing in an inconspicuous area. Sniff the oil or applied oil directly whenever you need an extra boost of calmness. If you prefer not to wear the scent, pour lavender oil on cotton balls, placing the balls strategically around your home, office, or cubicle in areas where you spend a lot of time.

3. Apply a few drops of lavender essential oil to the outside of an eye mask or the edge of a pillowcase and your sheets before bed. Place a lavender-soaked cotton ball on the nightstand near your bed as well.

4. Prepare a diffuser by filling it most of the way full with water. Add four or five drops of lavender essential oil. Set the diffuser in a room you frequent, away from walls and flammable materials. Light the tea light candle underneath.

Tips & Warnings

• Lavender essential oil may even be used to calm a colicky baby. Add a few drops of the oil to the infant's bath warm water for a calming effect.

• Oil can potentially stain fabrics, so do not douse fabrics in essential oil. Use in moderation instead.

• Use a coaster or tray underneath lavender-soaked cotton balls on surfaces that may be affected by the oil.

• Be sure the oil you're using is lavender essential oil and not a lavender fragrance oil. Fragrance oils are often scented with artificial additives and are not pure. Essential oil bottles always have "essential oil" on the label.

• Do not rub your eyes after getting lavender oil on your fingers. If your eyes burn from lavender oil, rinse them with cool water after washing your hands.

• Frequently check your diffuser to be sure it hasn't run out of liquid. Add more water and oil as needed. Do not use the diffuser near flammable objects.

References

• The Franklin Institute: Aromatherapy-study
• USF Com Department of Family Medicine; Stress Management; Tessa Ricci
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Infantile Colic
• Blomeyer Health Center at Emory: Stress Relief
• University of Minnesota: How do I Choose and Use Essential Oils?