It’s that time of year again where the lavender fields are in full bloom. So a trip to Norfolk to source organic lavender essential oil is in order… It’s a joy to stand in the middle of a lavender field with the bees and butterflies buzzing around you, the intoxicating smell and the feel of warm sun. Hard not to relax – and that’s before you even begin to use this wonderful essential oil!

Essential oils have long been known to contain positive healing, therapeutic and cosmetic properties and their use dates back as far as ancient Egypt. In the Western world, the use of plant oils in childbirth, just as in general medicine, has come full circle. Until the middle of the nineteenth century, women usually gave birth with other women helping them. There were no drugs to ease labour pains, so these early midwives used the only things they knew could help – aromatic plants. Recipes and knowledge to heal and deaden pain were handed down from mother to daughter.

Aromatherapy is an entirely individual treatment aimed at making each woman feel her best. It can provide a nurturing, nourishing treatment which will enhance well-being and self-awareness and can help to relieve minor ailments should they arise. Common ailments during pregnancy such as morning sickness, stretch marks, insomnia, fatigue, indigestion and heartburn, fluid retention, mood swings can all be effectively treated with aromatherapy.

Lavender is the great “all-rounder” as it has so many uses. Relaxing, anti-depressant, it eases muscular aches and pains, relieves headaches and insomnia. Research shows it also lowers blood pressure.

Always buy essential oils in dark glass bottles from a reputable supplier. Good quality well sourced oils do cost more but only those marked Pure Essential Oil will have the therapeutic qualities you’re after.