Lavender

(Lavandula angustifolia)

When I need to relax, calm down, heal a wound or treat sunburn, Lavender is my first choice of essential oil. It holds the top spot in my first aid kit due to its beneficial properties and actions.

The fresh flowering tops of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) are steam-distilled, resulting in a pale yellow liquid with a floral-herbaceous aroma and soothing, slightly woody undertones. It is one of the most remarkable and powerful essential oils.

The primary chemical constituents of lavender oil are linalool and linalyl acetate. Other significant compounds include terpinen-4-ol, E-β-ocimene, 1,8-cineole, and camphor. While lavender essential oil contains over 100 compounds, these are the most notable in their abundance and contribution to its characteristic aroma and properties.

Lavender is known for its ability to help lower high blood pressure and calm palpitations. It has a long-established reputation as a remedy for…

What do animals think about Lavender?

During my twenty-eight years of experience working with animals through Individual Consultations, I observed that only one dog had selected Lavender, and that was for just one day. In contrast, most dogs and horses looking for relaxation or healing from trauma, loss, and abuse prefer essential oils like Vetiver, Frankincense, Violet leaf, Bergamot, Neroli, and Rose. I have never had a cat choose Lavender.

When using essential oils with animals, follow these guidelines:

1. Always dilute essential oils in a vegetable-based carrier oil.

2. Allow animals to choose the oil, a process known as Zoopharmacognosy.

3. Do not apply any oil that the animal dislikes.