Name and origin
Lavandula angustifolia or Lavandula officinalis (true lavender or English lavender)
Angustifolia means 'narrow leaf' in Latin, while officinalis refers to its medicinal properties and use.
Lavandula vera - Lavender
History
A well-loved garden plant, possibly introduced to England by the Romans. Its name is originated from the Latin word 'lavare' (to wash), referring to its use in Roman baths.
It has also been used throughout history not only as a perfume but also as medicine.
Interestingly, Gattefosse, the father of aromatherapy 'discovered' lavender's ability as a remedy after using it himself following an burning accident. Lavender has also been used during the WWII to treat burns, wounds and injuries to the skin.
Use of essential oil
Emotional: stress, tension, panic attacks, palpitations, insomnia, depression, anxiety, irritability, exhaustion Skin: burns, cuts, bites, stings, infected wounds, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, spots
Respiratory: sinusitis, asthma, colds, influenza, bronchitis
Muscular/Skeletal: arthritis, rheumatism, aches and pains, headaches, migraine, muscle spasms, strains, sprains
Genito-urinary: dysmenorrhea, PMS, amenorrhea, cystitis
Therapeutic properties
analgesic
antibacterial
anticonvulsive
antidepressant
antifungal
anti-infectious
anti-inflammatory
antirheumatic
antiseptic
antispasmodic
balancing
calmative
carminative
cholagogue
cicatrisant
cytophylactic
emmenagogue
hypotensive
sudorific
tonic/nervine
vulnerary