The History Behind Lavender Essential Oil

The cultivation of lavender began in the 15th century, deep in Southern France. This resulted in the distillation of the plant to create lavender essential oil. For centuries, lavender was harvested wild for its many benefits; not until the 1920s was true cultivation born. The therapeutic benefits of lavender were known for centuries. As the rise of herbal medicine occurred, cultivating this amazingly aromatic plant became a priority.

As the cultivation of lavender began, the emergence of herbal oils and the development of essential oils began. By 1900, essential oils were in regular use. That kicked off the Golden Age of herbs, with lavender being one of those botanicals.

Mentioning the word “lavender” brings up a wide range of memories, from the Romans and their lavender baths to the creation of eau du cologne in France or to Rene Gattefosse, applying it to a burn. The herbal and spiritual practices of lavender range far and wide. Lavender is simply one of those plants cultivated for use in various industries and cultures.

Lavender oil is one of the most popular and well-known oils due to its ability to help with a large range of ailments. Lavender is also viewed as a gentle oil, increasing the number of uses and people using it.

The refreshing fragrance of lavender has long been associated with sleep, relaxation and reversing sadness. The oil can help achieve calmness and promote overall contentment. All forms of lavender, floral water, essential oil or the plant, itself, regulates our nervous system.

While many focus on the calming benefits of lavender, we cannot overlook the other amazing properties that it possesses. Inhaling lavender oil creates balance within our bodies, bringing about a sense of balance, which can help with irritability, palpitations and coughs. 

Topically, lavender has just as many benefits. For decades, lavender has been used to treat wounds, burns, leg ulcers and boils. The calming effect it brings to the nerves is also seen on the skin. Lavender can deal with minor skin infections and inflammation associated with injury.

The list of properties that lavender oil possesses is long. It’s the first oil that most practitioners reach for and an oil that so many associate with a positive outcome. And that means very few other oils come even close to what lavender oil can do.