A chain of events gives me a headache, lucky for me I have Lavender essential oil!

 

Lavender

What happens when this is distilled and becomes an oil?

Lavender Angustifoilia is the most common variety.

Mostly grown in France (I have been told that France exports more lavender than it produces - interesting)  but Jersey Lavender and other UK growers also produce essential oil.

Whilst it great to buy these direct from the growers, most lavender in the shops have beeen imported, sent to wholesalers then distributors and onto shops before they get to the customer.

All manner of changes can happen en route.

    

    Diluted with cheaper products/chemical fragrance enhancers.

    Not stored correctly.

Once you get your oils, they must be stored like medicinces: in a cool dark place. If you notice any change to the aroma, they have gone off and need disposal because they could do more harm than good.

I buy my oils direct form an importer, Kobashi. I am asked why are they so expensive? Isn't it usual for products to become more expensive as they move down the distribution line? Well not for essential oils (see above).

 

This one is High Altitude Lavender. Usually used for more spiritual purposes. In general "ordinary" lavender is used as a remedy for physical complaints

Several of my family and friends (all adults) are suffering from headaches, migraines etc. So I have advised them to buy some good (if that's the word) oils, if not from Kobashi, then Neals Yard Lavender is the next best option. 

5ml or 10 ml sized bottles should suffice.

Using 5ml (one teaspoon) of grapeseed or sunflower oil - unless you have Sweet Almond. 

Put into a small dish then add upto 3 drops of Lavender oil. (one frop if the sufferer is a child or very frail) 

Use this to massge the neck and upper back and shoulders.

Do this for three weeks then one week without before resuming the treatment.

This method worked for a client I had years ago who needed to treat her teenage daughter. It helped both of them.😉

If you are trying this at home, please consult a qualified Aromatherapist if there are any other conditions that would need to be considered eg Pregnancy.