Description
Essential oils are volatile compounds extracted from plants by distillation, shell and nut compression and solvent extraction processes. Essential oils have a therapeutic function because, despite their apparent simplicity, they are made up of powerful chemical substances such as antibiotics and antiseptics.
Lavender: indicated for asthmatic bronchitis and insect bites. On an emotional level, it acts as a tranquilliser and neurosedative, as well as combating insomnia.
How to apply
Massage: To formulate a sufficient amount for a massage, add 2 to 3 drops of essential oil to each tablespoon of vegetable oil base.
Compress: Place 5 to 10 drops of essential oil in a container of warm water; soak a towel in this mixture and apply to the affected area. Repeat so that the area is always covered and warm.
Bath: Add 4 to 8 drops of essential oil to a tub of warm water. For sensitive skin, dilute the essences in a teaspoon of vegetable oil. Use 3 to 5 drops in a foot bath or emersion bath.
Inhalation: Add 5 to 6 drops of essential oil to a container of boiling water. Place a towel over your head and the container and inhale the vapour for a few minutes. Alternatively, put 3-4 drops on a handkerchief and sniff it quickly.
Aromatisation: Add a few drops of essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water. In candle flavourings, add a tablespoon of warm water with a few drops of the oil. Top up with lukewarm water to maintain the water level.
Composition
Composition
Lavender essential oil.
Precautions
When using an essential oil for the first time, you should do a test to see if it causes an allergic reaction: mix a drop of the oil you are going to use in a coffee spoon with sweet almond oil and rub it into the crease of your elbow. If your skin reddens within 24 hours, you are sensitive to the product and should not use it. Never use essential oil in its pure form. To avoid irritating the skin, they should always be mixed with an oily base, such as sweet almond oil. Use a small amount of any oil in any type of treatment. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, do not use oils without the advice of a qualified aromatherapist. Essential oils are flammable, are for external use and should not be ingested.