Lavender spike (Lavendula spica, Lavandula latifolia, Lamiaceae) is a stimulating oil with an interesting chemical composition. It lacks the high ester (Linalyl acetate) content of L. angustifolia. It contains just 2% esters. Instead we find oxide (1,8 cineole) 34% and a ketone (camphor) 15%. This cineole content makes the oil interesting as an inhalation for respiratory conditions, muscular pains and as an insect repellant.
Lavender Spike therefore blends well with L. angustifolia making a comprehensive calming blend base.
Properties
Nervous - analgesic, antidepressant, calming
Endocrine - regulating
Circulation and immune - antiviral, bactericidal, decongestant, immune system tonic
Skin and muscle tissues - antifungal, antiseptic
Respiratory - expectorant
Digestive - bactericidal
Contains: linalyl acetate - camphor - caryophyllene - 1,8 cineole - camphene, limonene - borneol, linalool, lavandulol
Safety - the ketone (camphor) content should be noted
Students note.
Lavender spike is a soldier oil the one I reach for when making bronchitis or antifungal blends.
Fungal toe nails are a common complaint. The prescribing nurse will ask you to supply a sample of toenail clippings for analysis.
Internal prescription antifungals are the only way of making headway against a severe case affecting multiple toes however the recurrence rate is nonetheless high.
Personal hygiene. An aromatherapy hip bath can be substituted for showering in the morning. The hot water softens the nails making them easier to clip short.
Aromatherapy cannot get at the nail bed under the nail where the infection is rooted but can help stop its spread to neighbouring nails and irritation of the skin. Fungal toenails should not be "lived with" and every effort made to return them to normal. Oils to consider are lavender spike, tea tree and onion oil. Also lavender, thyme linalool, tagetes and cypress.
OTC - Vicks vapour rub between the toes.
Safety comment
Ref
Battaglia Complete Guide p40,
Caddy Essential oils in Colour #41,
Tisserand (2013) Kindle (Camphor #33909)
Worwood, Fragrant Pharmacy p242-243
DISCLAIMER
This information is for educational purposes only, it is not intended to treat, cure, prevent or, diagnose any disease or condition. Nor is it intended to prescribe in any way. This information is for educational purposes only and may not be complete, nor may its data be accurate.
As with all essential oils, never use them undiluted. Do not take internally unless working with a qualified and expert practitioner. Keep away from children. If applying an essential oil to your skin always perform a small patch test to an insensitive part of the body (after you have properly diluted the oil in an appropriate carrier.
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