This post first appeared on Piping Rock. All content is theirs.

Lavender Oil is a timeless scent that is both comforting and relaxing. It's an aromatherapy favorite for many, since it's tied to easy days, spa visits, and soothing memories. That's why today we're putting our focus on this unique, beloved essential oil. Below you'll find everything you've ever wanted to know about Lavender Essential Oil and a little DIY project to enhance its use!

The Origins & History

Let's get straight to the facts. Lavender Essential Oil comes from the flowers of the lavender plant. Tall, flowing purple flowers that grow in fields, and are a sight to see. They are grown in various regions, the South of France being the most notable (and name-drop-worthy). After undergoing steam distillation, these flowers produce the calming oil we all know and love.

This oil has been used for centuries in a variety of ways. In Ancient Rome and Greece, it was a favorite to drop into their bath water to provide a soothing, warming experience. Lavender Oil was also used traditionally as a strewing herb to keep nasty smells out of the home.

The Scent Itself & Modern Day Use

The scent, as we're sure most know, is an intrinsically relaxing aroma. It's balancing for the mind and body, and calming for the emotional self. Blend Lavender with any of the following oils for a heightened aromatherapy experience: Cedarwood, Pine, and Clary Sage.

In today's world of wellness, Lavender Oil has found itself useful in a variety of ways. When mixed together with a carrier oil, like Jojoba Oil, it makes for a great massage oil to calm the mind and ease the body into rest. It also can be used in DIY Lip Balm as a solution to fighting off the winter woes of chapped lips. Lastly, when used in conjunction with other products, you can make a naturally good-smelling deodorant that protects your body from nasty odors. As you can see, the uses are endless! As long as you can be creative.

D.I.Y. Laundry Trick

For sheets that smell like the South of France, place a few drops of Lavender 100% Pure Essential Oil on a wet cloth then throw into your dryer.