Lavender oil is an essential oil extracted from the flowers of the lavender plant. It is used in various products such as cosmetics, food additives, soaps, plastic resins, perfumes, and more. Here are some details about lavender oil:
Ingredients or Materials
- Lavender oil is a complex mixture of phytochemicals, including linalool and linalyl acetate.
- The chemical composition of lavender essential oil consists of over 100 constituents, the major ones being 1,8-cineole, limonene, linalool, camphor, linalyl.
- Lavender oil contains several anti-microbial compounds, such as eucalyptol, linalool, terpinen-4-ol, and α-terpineol.
Positive Effects
- Lavender oil is believed to possess sedative, carminative, anti-depressive, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties.
- Preliminary studies suggest that lavender oil may possess properties to aid in healing, alleviate insomnia, help to treat anxiety, as well as possessing antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties.
- Lavender oil seems to have calming effects and might relax certain muscles. It also seems to have antibacterial and antifungal effects.
- Lavender oil aromatherapy seems to help reduce menstrual pain.
- Lavender oil is used in food packaging as a naturally derived preservative.
Negative Effects
- Lavender oil is generally recognized as safe, but it can cause skin irritation in some people when applied topically.
- Lavender oil is not recommended for use in pregnant women and young boys who have not yet reached puberty.
- Lavender oil can cause allergic reactions in some people.
- The main toxic constituents of lavender oil are linalyl acetate and linalool.
In conclusion, lavender oil is a popular essential oil with various uses and benefits. It is generally safe, but it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. Pregnant women and young boys who have not yet reached puberty should avoid using lavender oil.
