Lavender has a very simple power and strength and one of its
many functions is as a systemic relaxant, which regulates the Qi.
As Peter Holmes writes in the Energetic of Western Herbs Lavender harmonizes opposites. Working through
the nervous and cardiovascular systems Lavender is an excellent example of a remedy possessing the potential to both cool/sedate AND warm/stimulate. Its actual effect will therefore depend on factors such as, the person’s condition, the dominant outside temperature and
the quality and type of the preparation being used.
This is why Lavender seems to be able to do so much, it can lower high blood pressure and raise low blood pressure, it can help reduce a temperature and it can warm a tired and fatigued body. Just magic!
But if you know which Lavender to use you can really add to the plants natural healing abilities. So
here is my which lavender and when guide!
Lavandula
angustifolia (true lavender) is high in Linalol AND linalyl acetate. When an essential oil contains both of these
chemical components it is a wonderful regulator. So I will use Lavandula angustifolia when I am trying to bring the body back into harmony. So conditions such as stress, insomnia, fatigue, high blood pressure, PMS, IBS etc will all benefit from Lavandula angustifolia.
Lavandula latifolia (spike lavender) is high in Linalol, 1,8 cineole and camphor. This combination makes it a great oil for pain and muscle fatigue. Great in
combination with ginger and sweet marjoram. I use spike lavender anytime there is pain, tightness and fatigue in the muscular/skeletal system. When cleverly
blended it has many uses for pain and fatigue.
Lavandula x intermedia (Lavendin) is high in Linalol, linalyl acetate, 1,8 cineole and
camphor. This is a beautiful hybrid of
both of the above lavenders. Containing
the female gentleness and all knowing energy of Lavandula angustifolia and the
strength, power and ump! of the male Lavandula latifolia. But still it is gentle enough for children.
This is my first oil to use on children with colds and
flu. The 1,8 is sufficient to decongest
the lungs but not as overwhelming as Eucalyptus smithii. If I am feeling achy myself but don’t need
spike lavender I will always use Lavendin.
Enjoy the power and many uses of lavender
Christine
