Lavender oil is one of the most popular and versatile ingredients used in skin care and as an oil in aromatherapy. It is a highly concentrated extract made from the flower spikes of lavender plants. Lavender oil itself is a colorless oil that does not dissolve in water. Distilled from the plant Lavandula angustifolia, the oil promotes relaxation and can be used to treat anxiety, fungal infections, allergies, depression, insomnia, eczema, nausea, and menstrual cramps.
Lavender oil is generally used in perfumes and for aromatherapy, as well as skincare products. This has recently enhanced its use for a wider range of purposes, particularly to promote relaxation.
Lavender is considered safe for use on pets. The most common uses of lavender for dogs are to soothe itching, irritation, and inflammation. It is relatively versatile, helping dogs with multiple issues.
Is lavender safe for dogs and cats?
Lavender (when used sparingly and in the proper concentration) is probably the safest essential oil for both dogs and cats. However, due to species variations, oils that are safe for dogs may not be safe for cats so we don’t recommend using lavender oil on cats. It is important that when an oil is used, it needs to be diluted and applied appropriately.
1. Lavender for cats:
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), lavender plants are toxic to cats and can cause nausea and vomiting. “Lavender contains linalool and linalyl acetate, and cats lack the enzymes necessary to process these compounds,”
2. Lavender for dogs:
Lavender is perhaps the most popular (and one of the safest) because of its calming properties. Peppermint is another good ingredient that can stimulate circulation and deter pesky insects.
Lavender is great for an itchy dog. It soothes irritated skin and can help prevent infection from over-scratching. Lavender oil is a full spectrum oil, meaning it has antibacterial, antiseptic, and antimicrobial properties. It’s totally safe when used properly.
Lavender and lavender oil have several beneficial properties for dogs and other pets including:
- Soothing itchy or irritated skin: Lavender can soothe your dog’s irritated or itchy skin. For dogs that are scratching to satisfy a persistent itch, diluted lavender oil can provide some relief.
- Promoting a calming effect: People use lavender and lavender oil to help relax or relieve stress. Thus, lavender oil is often used for aromatherapy.
- Acting as an insect repellant: Lavender acts as an insect repellant for both humans and dogs. If your dog has an issue with fleas and ticks, or if pesky mosquitoes swarm on your next trek out of the house, using products with lavender or applying lavender oil to your dog’s coat could help reduce the chance of bites.
- Serving as an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent: Lavender is thought to fight off bacteria and fungus that could ultimately harm your dog. Using products with lavender can serve as a preventative measure.
At Go Eco Love we are serious about petcare. We are pet enthusiasts as we have pets of our own. We recommend reading through the product labels carefully and awareness for each of the ingredients. Lavender is an ingredient we use in our natural, handmade, organic pet care products. We are quite confident you won’t be disappointed. Why not head over to the Go Eco Love shop where you can see all the products with lavender