It helps you relax: You may have heard that breathing in the smell of lavender makes you drowsy; turns out, it’s true. Research shows the scent lowers heart rate and blood pressure, putting you in a relaxed state. To set yourself up for zzz’s, put a handful of dried lavender in a vase on your nightstand, or use a diffuser with lavender oil. But note: Lavender isn’t a game-changer unless you practise other sleep-promoting habits. Start to avoid caffeine 10 hours before bed, keep gadgets silent, and turn in at the same time every night.

 

Fight dandruff: Got flakes? Lavender oil can help scalp conditions. Wet hair with warm water and towel dry. Next, grab a mug and mix 15 drops of lavender essential oil in two tablespoons olive or almond oil. Microwave for about 10 seconds or until it feels warm. Massage the oil into your scalp, wear a shower cap, let set for an hour, then shampoo out.

 

 

Calm itchy skin: So, you’re a mosquito magnet? Get the itch out with lavender essential oil. It’s a natural anti-inflammatory, so it helps reduce itching, swelling, and redness. Dab a drop or two on the area and wait about 15 minutes for it to seep in (but stop if skin becomes more irritated). Apply as needed every six to eight hours for the next 24 hours.

 

Bloating: Bloating and poor digestion can result from an overgrowth of “bad” bacteria (which can happen when you take antibiotics). The polyphenols (a type of antioxidant) in lavender can help reduce the ‘bad’ bacteria in your gut.

 

Source: health.com

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