Though the lavender season is finished, the farmers still have work to do. During the month of October, they will take care of those lavender plants that are more than 10 years old. They will be pulled up, burnt and then the farmers will prepare the land for March planting by plouging to aerate the soil.

Lavender oil is one of the most versatile essential oils in the world and the therapeutic usages are endless and it’s often used in the Aromatherapy. An alternative medical treatment that basically uses naturally extracted aroma essences from plants to balance, harmonize and promote the well-being of body, mind and spirit. It is also used as an antiseptic, antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial treatment. 

The word ‘Aromatherapy’ was invented by a french scientist René Gattefossé (1881 – 1950). When his hands were severly burnt in a laboratory explosion, the only liquid nearby was the lavender essential oil and thus he grabbed it and plunged his hand into it. He discovered the healing properties and that the burns were healed quickly with very little scarring. Following this incident, he later used the wound healing and antiseptic properties of essential oils in the care of soldiers in military hospitals during the First World War. By the 1950s massage therapists, beauticians, nurses, physiotherapists, doctors, and other health care providers began using aromatherapy.

Beware that the use of essential oils can have severe consequences, if not done correctly and safely.

The benefical effects of essential oils to the body are applied many ways, through baths, massage, compresses, vaporisers, atomisers and inhulations. Some examples of aromatherapy with lavender essential oil are:

Lavender Bath

Excellent for aching muscles, relaxation, stress relief. Add 6-8 drops lavender essential oil after running the water and vigorously agitate the water

Lavender Tissues/Handkerchief

Good for instant relief from flu, sinusitis and anxiety. Use 1-3 drops Lavender oil and inhale immediately as required.

Lavender Steam Inhalation

Great for colds and flu. Add 4-6 drops to a bowl of hot water. Place a towel over your head and breathe in the vapour. Keep your eyes shut. Continue to breathe deeply for a few minutes, occasionally removing the towel and your head from the bowl.

Lavender Hand/Foot Bath

Great for tired feet, fatigue or sore/dry hands. Add 4-6 drops Lavender oil to a large bowl of warm water and soak for approx 10 minutes. Then apply a lavender lotion for added benefits.