1) An extract of lavender has shown promise in the treatment of a variety of cancers.
2) Parts of the lavender flower may lower blood sugar levels and cholesterol.
3) Lavender, in a Scottish clinical trial, showed that it may be effective in slowing the rate of hair loss.
4) Lavender tea is used in Europe to stimulate the appetites of people who are having trouble eating.
5) Lavender tea also has a reputation for quelling upset stomachs.
6) As a natural antiseptic, lavender is used to treat sunburned skin and prevent blisters from becoming infected.
7) In Germany lavender tea is popular in the treatment of difficulty in sleeping and restlessness.
8) Mild forms of depression have responded to the administration of lavender.
9) Massage therapists add lavender to their oils to increase the relaxing effect of a massage.
10) The scent of lavender is thought to improve mental functioning.
Not only is lavender popular in drinks and supplements, it is also used in aromatherapy and seems to be showing solid results. A small study at the University of Miami showed that having it in the air for only a few minutes made subjects feel less depressed, more drowsy, and better relaxed. A surprising finding was that after aromatherapy participants were able to finish math problems faster.
Lavender is not known to have adverse reactions with other nutrients or drugs. No side effects of lavender are known, though a small percentage of people have allergic reactions to lavender oil applied on the skin. Because lavender has a sedative effect, it is suggested that it be used under a physician’s guidance if prescription sedatives are being taken.
The amount of lavender to be used in its assorted functions varies, but, be it as an oil or released into the air, a little goes a long way.
Copyright © Dennis Becker, 2004.
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