Lavender: A Natural Anxiety Reducer
What is Lavender?
When you first think of lavender, you might associate it with its calming scent. However, this powerful botanical is actually a natural healing agent with many different uses. Lavender, scientifically known as Lavandula angustifolia, is a herb that grows all over the world. There are over 30 varieties of lavender as well as many other sub varieties. Historically, the herb was used to treat many health issues and there are even records of lavender being used in ancient Egypt as an ingredient in the mummification process, as well as in India and Tibet to treat psychiatric conditions. Today, lavender is proven to have a range of therapeutic uses that positively impact the brain, body, and skin.
In terms of formulation, lavender flowers are harvested to be processed into either powder or oil form. Though lavender oil has many uses, unlike its powder counterpart, it’s toxic if it’s ingested internally due to the usage of essential oils in the distilling process. Our cleansing powder capsules utilize lavender powder, which has several medicinal, cosmetic, and healing benefits and can work as a highly impactful addition to any beauty and wellness regimes.
Natural Anxiety Reduction
From spas to scented candles, it’s relatively common for lavender to be immediately associated with fostering a sense of calmness and relaxation. These aromatherapy effects go beyond anecdotal evidence, as clinical studies suggest that lavender can reduce stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
A study conducted by the Research and Innovation Center in Phytotherapy and Integrated Medicine demonstrated that by exposing people to the lavender in various forms, they experienced reduced anxiety levels. This study used randomized control trials to study the efficacy of using lavender as an anti-anxiety treatment by exposing participants to anxiety-inducing situations, and then comparing their anxiety levels with a control group who were not administered lavender as a treatment.
Lavender: Not Just a Pretty Scent
Lavender-scented beauty and bath products are everywhere, as more and more personal care brands tout the calming effects of the aroma or pleasing aesthetics of the plant’s purple hue. However, lavender can do so much more! Lavender contains high levels of polysaccharides, which studies have shown to work to aid in reducing inflammation in the body, meaning it can help with diseases such as arthritis and joint pain. Research also indicates that lavender has antifungal properties, making it an even more powerful and healing ingredient.
As the plant has potent anti-inflammatory properties, it can act as a skin therapy for healing superficial wounds, as well as a minimizing of the signs of eczema. In addition, lavender can also be used to treat blemishes, as a gentle and effective skin toner and natural antimicrobial and antiseptic agent. From aromatherapy to skin improvement to mental health, lavender can work to improve your overall health and well-being.