Complete Guide to Essential Oils/A to Z of essential oils/Lavender

right|200px|Lavandula angustifolia flowers Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) Lavender is a very useful and popular essential oil. It comes from the flower tops of Lavandula angustifolia (Lavandula officinalis) plants and is extracted by steam distillation. It has a flowery scent and a balancing effect on the body and mind. Properties thumb|Bottle of lavender oil Circulatory May lower blood pressure and reduce fluid retention. Digestive Relieves indigestion, nausea, vomiting and flatulence. Soothes colic. Emotional Soothes stress, anxiety and depression. Helps calm panic and hysteria. Alleviates insomnia. Gynecological Regulates the menstrual cycle. Eases symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Immunological Helps fight throat infections. Pain Alleviates arthritis, rheumatism, headaches and migraine. Soothes muscle pain. Helps fight stress for shingles Respiratory Relieves asthma, bronchitis, laryngitis, catarrh and symptoms of a cold. Skin Improves acne, psoriasis, eczema, dandruff, oily skin and athlete's foot. Promotes healing of abscesses, minor wounds, sunburn and burns. It can be applied neat to the skin and is very effective on minor burns. Other uses Repels insects. Caution Don't use lavender oil during the early stages of pregnancy. Blending Lavender can be combined with clary sage, frankincense, geranium, cedarwood, pine, nutmeg and citrus oils. Lavandula angustifolia deep