Lavender Fields Hand & Body Lotion

Introduction

There are enough hand & body lotions out there in the marketplace to silken all the crocodiles, alligators, lizards, and other scalies of the world several times over. But now and then, a really good one comes along, and I have to shout its praises.

Aura Cacia makes a heavenly lotion called Lavender Fields, whose blend of superb botanicals and softening agents make it an absolute joy to use. Never mind the fact that I adore anything lavender-scented; my home is filled with lavender candles, potpourri, pillows, and oils; I love what this lotion does for my skin AND my state of mind!

Some Lavender Facts

The International Herb Association named Lavender the "Herb of the Year" in 1999. This most fragrant and beloved herb has long been revered in literature as an "herb of love." (Pay attention, ladies!!) Its name means "to wash" and was used by both the Romans and Greeks in their soaps and bathwater (Lavandula is thought to derive from the Latin verb lavare, to wash.). Its unique and evocative fragrance could be called a "classic," and it has been, and is today, a key ingredient in soaps and shampoos, sachets, perfumes, and even seasoning blends. It's been said that, when using lavender in wedding bouquets, it ensures best wishes and good luck to the bride and groom! The essential oil of lavender is now enjoying additional interest because of its use in aromatherapy, containing valuable elements that are healing and calming. Studies have actually shown that that lavender will relieve stress and headaches in the workplace. I have tried this myself, and found it to be so beneficial that I'm never without it in the workplace.

There are at least 28 known species of lavender, with some species multiply named. What is commonly called Lavender or "English Lavender" is Lavandula angustifolia, which means "narrow leaved." Another species of commercial importance is L. latifolia Villars, or L. Spica DC, called Spike Lavender or Spike. Spanish Lavender or French Lavender, L. dentata, is used in the perfume industry. Dentata means "toothed." That's probably more than you ever wanted to know about lavender, but I always get a kick out of finding out more about something I like.

Lavender is best known for its long history as a simple, accessible, and inexpensive scent, and has been used for centuries in perfumes, soaps, and other toiletries. It was commonly used in the storage of clothes and linens as an insect repellent. It is still used extensively in potpourri and sachets, and wafts a wonderful scent throughout the whole house. I read recently that a well-known native healing woman described the herb as having strong "grandmother energy," meaning comfort, compassion, and the wisdom of long experience. Another widespread use of lavender is as a major ingredient in most "smelling salts," popular for centuries as a remedy for faintness.

Modern Uses

Today, lavender is used extensively to scent various products in the cosmetic industry and to a lesser degree in the pharmaceutical industry; in the food industry, it is used as an insect repellent and even as a flavor. All types of lavender oil are used in the perfume industry. The modern therapeutic applications of lavender are mostly related to the oil, which is considered the most versatile remedy in aromatherapy.

Ingredients

Purified water, safflower oil, aloe vera gel, glycerin (vegetable-based), stearic acid (vegetable-based), glyceryl stearate (vegetable-based), cetyl alcohol (vegetable-based), Vitamin E (tocopherol acetate), DL pantheol, extracts of chamomile and calendula, essential oils (lavender, lavandin, and spike lavender), methyl paraben, and imidazolidinyl urea.

It is important to note here that this product is cruelty-free, and has no synthetic fragrances or colors.

Packaging

Aura Cacia's Lavender Fields Hand & Body Lotion comes in a white 8 oz. plastic pump bottle, and sports a lavender label with a gorgeous picture of wild lavender on the front.

Using Lavender Fields Hand & Body Lotion

This fabulous lotion is suitable for all skin types. I live in Dallas, TX, and believe me, without constant moisturizing, you can easily get leathery skin from too much exposure to the sun. Ever since I brought Lavender Fields home, I have used it every day. At least twice a day I apply it generously to my arms, legs, and hands, rubbing in extra lotion on heels and elbows. Not only does my skin look wonderful, but the soothing scent of lavender does wonders for my peace of mind. Unlike many commercial scents, the lavender fragrance in this lotion is not overpowering. The scent is almost elusive, magical-the same kind of evocative perfume you notice when shaking out linens that have been lovingly stored in sachet-lined bureau drawers.

I recently had some minor surgery, and as soon as I got home, I reached for my Lavender Fields and rubbed it into my skin. The feeling of cool, silky skin and the perfume of lavender soon soothed me into a pleasant, healing nap. There's just something about the smell of lavender that makes you feel that all is right with the world-imagine that, all that good feeling and beautifully-soft skin from one little lotion! It's like having a whole beauty spa in a bottle!

Conclusion

This is a wonderful hand & body lotion, and the scent makes it an instant winner with me. If you love aromatherapy as much as I do, you will really enjoy this refreshing and soothing lavender lotion. I find that an application of it in the morning after a shower, and again at night before bed does wonders for softening my skin.

Do yourself a big favor and try this out. Your skin will thank you for it, and you will be amazed at how that lavender fragrance will help balance you on a stressful day.

Jane's Rating

On my own scale of 1-10, 10 being the best, I give Aura Cacia's Lavender Fields Hand & Body Lotion a hands-down 10!

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