What's the truth about Lavender? What is "skin-cell death"? Lavender is in my shampoo, should I change? This information came from the last page of the book "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me." (9th Edition)
WHY LAVENDER OIL IS A PROBLEM FOR EVERYONE’S SKIN<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />
Research indicates that components of lavender, specifically
linalool, can be cytotoxic, which means that topical application causes
skin-cell death. Lavender leaves contain
camphor, which is a known skin irritant.
Because the fragrance constituents in lavender oil oxidize
when exposed to air, lavender oil is a pro-oxidant, and this enhanced oxidation
increases its irritancy on skin.
Lavender oil is the most potent form, and even small amounts of it (0.25%)
or less) are problematic. It is a must
to avoid in skin-care products, but is fine as an aromatherapy agent for
inhalation or relaxation.
Sources: Contact Dermatitis,
September 2008, pages 143-150; Psychiatry Research, February 2007, pages 89-96;
Cell Proliferation, June 2004, pages 221-229; and naturaldatabase.com.
