Lavender plants are not only beautiful to look at, they also provide wonderful therapeutic properties that are good for humans as well as animals. The plant itself is not necessarily used for therapeutic uses, however the oil is often used to help alleviate stress and anxiety in pets and is very popular with aromatherapists for massage and relaxation.
The lavender oil can be used to calm nervous and anxious dogs. Keep in mind that cats may develop liver toxicity if they come into direct contact with the oil. Care should be used when lavender oil is used around cats and should never be applied directly to their skin/coat.
Lavender can also lift spirits of depressed animals. You can apply a couple of drops of lavender oil on a cotton ball and add it to transport cages and crates to ease stress in anxiety while traveling. You can also add a few drops to a vaporizer to help clear respiratory congestion.
During my dog massage sessions, I always use a lavender oil to soothe anxious and stressed dogs. A lavender scented candle will work as well.
This versatile oil can also be used as a tick preventative, but should not be used for cats in this form. Adding this oil in a diluted form to a homemade flea and tick remedy can work wonders.
Numerous studies have also shown that lavender oil relieves pain when used for rheumatism, arthritis, and muscular aches and pains, especially those associated with sport pain. Again, the oil should be used in a diluted form for dogs.
Lavender oil should NOT be ingested due to the potential toxicity on the liver and kidneys. Undiluted lavender oil should not be used directly on the skin of animals as it may cause skin irritations in its pure form.
Remember, care should be used in all things unknown and consulting with a professional is always best before mixing your own remedies if you are not familiar with them.
No comments:
Post a Comment