Shutterstock. (n.d.). [Stunning landscape of a lavender field at sunset]. Shutterstock. Available here.
From the strong upward and outward direction of Rosemary, it follows suit that we discuss Lavender. Lavender also moves energy both upward and outward, but differently than Rosemary. As it is a flower, it calms with a cooler, gentler quality, being less direct, more accommodating and softer. It has a ‘friendlier’ smell. Its upward and outward direction is more like energy spreading up and out like the rays of a sunrise reaching up from the horizon. This can be seen in the way the Lavender bush grows.
The Lavender bush looks as if it is spreading. One of the major functions of Lavender is to Spread and Soothe Liver Qi, making it one of the premier oils to work on symptoms such as dull hypochondriac pain, irritability, dull pain before menstruation (especially as a compress), bloating, anger, and frustration. These symptoms often lead to Spleen Qi Vacuity or Dampness. Like Rosemary, Lavender will ascend energy, yet will execute with more softness and ease.
One of the major functions of the liver is to ensure a smooth flow of energy throughout the body. As Lavender has the function to Soothe Liver Qi, it gives a feeling of ease. It may assist the client in letting go of minor frustrations and irritations of the day.
Lavender has many functions for the massage therapist and the acupuncturist. As a flower it will be beneficial for emotional issues of the heart – such as anxiety and restlessness. It can also gently bring feelings and emotions out of the upper aspects of the body (both lungs and the heart). Lavender, also beneficial to the outer aspects of the body, most specifically as it has the ability to Release the Exterior. And, Lavender can gently stimulate the sympathetic or parasympathetic system by regulating the nervous system.
Lavender is more forgiving and accepting of other oils. Lavender is famous for gently calming the mind and nervous system, and to ease the outward expression of emotions. It can be uplifting in times of grief and sorrow by allowing deeper breathing when used with Frankincense, Pine and/or Cypress. This is accomplished through its ability to promote the movement of Qi. Keep in mind, however, Lavender moves Qi, it does not tonify it. So if there is Qi Vacuity, Lavender should be used with an oil that tonifies the Qi such as Ravensara or Tea Tree which Tonify the Qi and Release the Exterior.
In the case of a Wind-Heat with symptoms of dry skin, Lavender and Palmarosa should be a major component of the blend. Palmarosa will aid in the nourishing of dry or chapped skin due to wind and heat. Lavender has the uniqueness of being the only flower to Release the Exterior. Palmarosa, on the other hand is a grass with functions similar to flowers having the ability to also Release the Exterior while at the same time hydrate the skin.
Lavender’s affinity to the Liver Qi, and its ability to Promote the Movement of Qi makes it an integral oil to alleviate pain before menses. It promotes the movement of Stagnant Qi in the lower abdomen, thereby increasing circulation. If the pain is sharp and shooting it is best to blend Lavender with an oil that Invigorates the Blood and alleviates pain such as Frankincense. For a dull ache, it can be blended with Roman Chamomile which will reduce the inflammation. To treat menses is best to use a compress on the lower abdomen in combination with acupressure points.
A few of the Meridian Biologix blends where Lavender is used include, Relax Constraint, Unwind Repression, Rectify Borders, and Quiet Moment.
By Marc Gian, L.Ac, LMT