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GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. The scent of lavender is known for its many healing properties and it's grown right here in the Grand Valley.

In addition to being anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and extremely soothing, a recent study by Frontiers Psychology Journal says lavender aroma also promotes interpersonal trust. Not every lavender item you see on the shelf however has healing properties.

“It's really important for people to understand that when they have those effects it’s coming from the true plant and the essential oils from that plant,” said Sage Creations Lavender Farm Owner Paola Legarre. “Many products have the synthetic form of lavender.”

To avoid synthetic lavender, Legarre says to check the ingredients of lavender products and make sure it contains "lavandula angustifolia" or "lavandula intermedia." To reap the most benefits, it's best to buy the essential oil and put it directly on your skin or a compress. You can also dilute it and create a mist.