A Love Letter to Lavender: The Science Behind Why Lavender is so Soothing
Lavender. The mere mention of this flower conjures up images of rolling hills and a sweet floral fragrance that evokes a sense of peace and tranquility. A sea of purple flowers sway in the gentle breeze, and bathed in golden sunlight they stretch across the horizon and invite us to fill our senses with a warm and sweet floral aroma. Breathe in. Breathe out. The scent of lavender is a tonic, soothing salve that eases the stresses of the everyday.
Lavender is a beloved and iconic plant that has become profoundly interwoven with human history, not only for its pleasant aroma, but also for its use in medicine and wellness. Lavender’s use as a remedial plant is extensively documented, and stretches far back into antiquity. The Greek physician to the Roman army, Dioscorides, wrote that lavender would relieve indigestion, sore throats, and headaches. The Romans named the plant after its use in their bathing rituals (“lava” means “to wash”), realizing lavender isn’t only relaxing, but also antiseptic.
But it is not only ancient wisdom that recognizes the power of lavender. Modern scientific research has begun to unlock the secrets behind this remarkable botanical, revealing the key components that provide its numerous wellness benefits. One of these is linalool, an aromatic molecule in which lavender is particularly rich. Research has shown that linalool has a number of wellness effects on the human body. In particular, linalool has been shown to make the immune system more resilient to the negative effects of stress, protecting the body's ability to manage stress over the long term. This is believed to be due to linalool's ability to activate the body's parasympathetic response, which is closely linked to relaxation and rest. As has been studied, chronic stress, defined by an overloaded central nervous system and overproduction of the stress hormone cortisol, can cause a variety of symptoms that impact your mental and physical health, productivity, and relationships.
While linalool provides a relaxing component to lavender’s benefits, it represents only one aromatic molecule in over 100 different molecules that make its composition. The lavender plant’s molecules, working in synergy with each other, create an even larger cohort of wellness benefits such as antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and healing. This is the miracle of nature.
So next time you encounter lavender on a leisurely stroll through your neighborhood or during your travels, take a moment to indulge in breathing in its alluring fragrance, and let its therapeutic properties soothe your soul.
In the absence of the source itself? There exist other ways to bring the power of lavender into your daily routines. From diffusing lavender-rich essential oils in your home as you unwind, adding a few drops to your evening bath, misting your pillow with a lavender spray before bed, or lighting a candle scented with real lavender aroma, there exist a wealth of options to explore. Our recommendation? Stick with 100% botanically-derived aromas, and preferably from organically grown plants.
If you are looking to enhance your daily rituals, lavender can also become a reliable cornerstone, turning any space into a sanctuary. Wherever or whenever it may be, you can take a moment to breathe deeply and let the soothing properties of this timeless plant untangle your mind and unwind your body.
UNWIND WITH LAVENDER
