Lavender oil is an essential oil obtained by distillation from the flower spikes of certain species of lavender. Pure lavender essential oil is produced through steam distillation. This generates a greater amount of oil compared to other methods due to reduction of polar compound loss. Harvest of lavender blooms is typically between late June and August. The cut lavender flowers and stems are compacted into a lavender still. A boiler is then used to steam the bottom of the lavender flower filled still at a very low pressure. The lavender flower pockets containing oil are broken from this heating process and a pipe of cold water is run through the center of the still. The hot lavender oil vapor condenses on the cold pipe with the cold water and is collected into a holding tank where it is allowed to settle. Due to polarity and densities of the water and oil, these two will separate in the holding tank whereupon the water is piped out, leaving just lavender essential oil.

Benefits

1. To use lavender oil for acne, dilute it in coconut oil or another carrier oil and apply it to your skin after washing your face.

2. You can also use lavender oil as a facial toner by mixing 2 drops of lavender oil with 1 teaspoon of witch hazel. Soak a cotton ball in the blend and then gently rub it over your face.

3. Lavender oil does double duty for insect bites. It acts as an insect repellent, and it can relieve itching after a bite occurs. Many commercial mosquito repellents contain lavender oil.

4. Lavender oil has many uses for treating the skin. It naturally reduces inflammation, lessens pain, and cleans the surface of the skin. You can use lavender oil on your face, legs, and hands.

5. Lavender oil is known for its antibacterial properties. It kills bacteria and heals as well as prevents acne. Lavender oil is also non-comedogenic in nature, so it doesn’t clog pores and can be used as a daily facial toner when mixed with tea tree oil. 

6. Lavender oil is also known to calm the mind and can be used for tackling anxiety and depression. It is known to have positive effects on symptoms of anxiety and has therapeutic effects on patients of anxiety. This is the reason why lavender oil is also one of the most common oils used for aromatherapy sessions. 

7. Lavender oil’s calming properties can fight insomnia. Studies suggest that inhaling lavender oil at night helps in soothing the nervous system and results in an improved quality of sleep.