LAVENDER MOUTTE
Lavendula angustifolia

Planet: Mercury

History & Mythology
The good thing about French traditionalists is that they just donâ''t care about popular notions and new-fangled ideas. Instead, they are quite happy to doggedly swim against the generically streamlined wave of their direct competitors and persist in doing their own thing the way it has always been done. Et voilà , they have created a unique market niche for themselves. Such is the case with Monsieur Moutte, a farmer of the Haute Provence, the rugged region nestled between the Mediterranean and the Alps, where fragrant waves of Lavender fields stretch to the horizon in every direction. This is the heartland of French perfumery, where most commercial French Lavender oil comes from. But what makes Monsieur Moutteâ''s oil different is the fact that he refuses to standardize his operation the way everybody else does. Most Lavender farms propagate their plants by cuttings, thus creating fields of clones which genetically are exactly the same as their parent plants. Monsieur Moutte on the other hand cultivates the individuality of his herbs - each plant is derived from a different wild parent plant. This individuality transfers to his oil, which is nothing like the commercial Lavender oils - instead, it has character. His Lavender oil also benefits from the fact that his fields are located at a higher altitude than other fields in the region, which means that harvest occurs about two weeks later than that of other growers. Moutte Lavender oil reverberates with the wild and rugged ambiance of the Provencal mountains.

Magical use:
This particular variety of Lavender oil is evocative of the wild rugged mountains where it is grown. Thus, it lets the mind roam and may stimulate the flights of the imagination. It can be used like regular Lavender oil, though its more individualistic character adds a slightly less predictable edge. It is excellent for dream work, visualization and path workings. It can also be used for purification, aura cleansing, protection and healing rituals. It opens the psychic channels and may be used for channelling and divination. It can be used to seal a platonic friendship, especially between teacher and student, and aids communication. Lavender is a plant of Mercury, and is well suited to calm an overactive mind and to stabilize emotions. It can be used for studying, as it may deepen oneâ''s understanding. It is very restorative for the spirit when feeling overwhelmed with burdens and responsibilities. It awakens the inner child and stimulates curiosity.

Scent:
Lavender has a unique floral scent, sweet, yet somewhat punchy. It blends well with the citrus oils, Bergamot, Myrtle, Chamomile, Frankincense, Clary Sage, Geranium, Labdanum, Vetivert, and Patchouli.

Aromatherapy:
The favourite oil of aromatherapists, Lavender is incredibly versatile and useful.Because of its balanced nature, agrees with just about anybody. In aromatherapy skin care products it can be used for all skin types, but is particularly soothing for inflammatory skin conditions, acne, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis nappy rash and boils. It is an excellent first aid remedy for burns and prevents scarring.It is also very effective for treating insect bites. Lavender is used to treat infections of the upper respiratory tract, though Lavender Spike is better suited for this purpose. It is a well known and singularly useful remedy for light-headedness or dizziness, and is even effective in fainting or as a first aid remedy for shock. Lavender can be used for depression, tension headaches, stress and anxiety.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON AROMATHERAPY SEE OUR SEPERATE PAGE TITLED 'AROMATHERAPY USAGE'

QUALITY AND PURITY
We only supply the finest quality essential oils certified for Aromatherapy use. This assures that during the process of extraction, handling and bottling our oils receive all possible care and attention, and that the highest quality and purity is maintained throughout the preparation process.

SAFETY **
** Pure essential oils are highly concentrated substances that should always be treated with due respect. Organic oils naturally are the purest oils available.

** Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the properties and uses of each individual oil you intend to use and take note of all cautions.

** Never take essential oils internally! *

** Do not apply essential oils neat (undiluted) to the skin. The recommended Aromatherapy standard dilution is 1 - 3%, though certain oils may be used in higher or lower dilutions. Consider each case individually.

** Always adhere to recommended safety standards and recommended dilution ratios.

** If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies test oil blends on a small area of the inner arm prior to general use.

** Keep oils out of reach of children and pets.

** Never allow essential oils to enter the eyes.

** If you are pregnant, consult a qualified aromatherapist for suitability and safety of specific oils. Many oils should not be used during pregnancy, some only need to be avoided for the first 3 - 4 months, others may be helpful during labour, but may pose a risk during the months before.

** If you suffer from serious medical conditions such as (but not exclusively) high blood pressure, cancer, thrombosis, varicose veins or epilepsy, consult a qualified aromatherapist for professional advice on recommended oils and dosages.

** We support the notion of people taking responsibility for their own well being. However, if symptoms persist or re-occur or you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to work with you in exploring natural health alternatives.
*...unless you know better.

CARE FOR YOUR ESSENTIAL OILS:
Essential oils are highly volatile substances that easily deteriorate or simply "fly off" if not stored correctly. Keep essential oils tightly closed and store them away from any sources of heat, in a cool, dark place.