Lavender...More Than Just a Pretty Flower
Provided by: Sunnycreek Farms Home & Body Shoppe
Lavender is considered to be one of the most versatile flowers in the world. Not only is it beautiful grown in the garden with its gray-green foliage and sweet smelling flowers, it is sought-after for hundreds of other uses.
A little history
Originally found in the Mediterranean, the perennial herb has long been prized for its captivating perfume and medicinal qualities. Used by the ancient Romans for its healing and antiseptic properties, the name itself comes from the Latin "lavare" which means to wash.
Some interesting facts
Lavender is cultivated throughout Europe and the United States. It takes over 500 pounds of lavender flowers to make 1-pound of essential oil. Lavender is harvested during the heat of the day and then the fresh flower tips are put through a steam distillation process to extract the pure essential oil.
Personality traits
Lavender has a pleasing and distinctive fragrance...subtly sweet with an herbaceous undertone. As it evaporates, its delicate scent drifts through the air as a subtle reminder of its presence.
Lavender...the ultimate remedy
Lavender is antibacterial, anticonvulsive, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, antiviral, anticoagulant, carminative, cordial, deodorant, decongestant, diuretic, hypotensive, insecticidal, parasiticidal, restorative, sedative, tonic, vermifugal, and vulnerary.
Good for the mind, body & soul
Lavender helps support a calm composure and reduces irritability, apprehension, stress, nervous tension, insomnia, nightmares, and is generally balancing to the psyche as well as the body.
Relax by placing a few drops of lavender oil on a handkerchief or tissue and then sniffing it throughout the day. Or, inhale its vapors by placing lavender in an oil burner for both calming and stimulating effects.
Relax in a scented and antiseptic bath by wrapping sprigs of lavender in muslin or cheesecloth and letting the bath water run over it as it fills your tub. If you don't have sprigs of lavender, try adding a couple of drops of lavender essential oil.
Common uses
Throughout history, lavender oil has been prized for its impressive healing properties. Its strong cleansing and germicidal effects make it valuable in the treatment of skin disorders and injuries. It was even used on the battle fields of World Wars I and II to prevent infection and relieve pain when other medical supplies were scarce.
Lavender works well in the treatment of acne, eczema, dermatitis, fungus, burns and wounds. It makes a refreshing astringent as well as an effective skin moisturizer. It can alleviate aches, pains and swelling from arthritis, injury, headache, and other maladies. Lavender can also alleviate motion sickness.
Massage therapy
Enjoy a relaxing massage by mixing a drop of lavender oil with a teaspoon of a carrier oil. Massage into the temples and back of the neck to help soothe away headaches. It is also thought to help relieve the pain of other aching muscles.
More health benefits
Research shows that lavender is beneficial for the treatment of indigestion, hypoglycemia, hypertension, arteriosclerosis, kidney stones and anemia. It is non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitizing.
Lavender around the home
Besides its countless medicinal properties, lavender has many uses around the home, in the car and at the office. Used alone or blended together with other flowers, leaves, and pods, lavender potpourri is delightful to...
- perfume an entire room
- scent the contents of bureau drawers, an armoire, closets
- eliminate musty odors
- repel moths from clothing
A light mist of lavender floral water sprayed over your bedding just before you retire for the night will produce a delicate scent and help you relax and drift into a restful slumber.
Tuck a lavender bud pillow stuffer into your pillowcase for a lingering scent throughout the night...awaken feeling rested and revived.
Things to avoid
Lavender should be avoided in the first trimester of pregnancy. It should not be used with preparations containing iron and/or iodine. When using lavender for massage it needs to be diluted in a carrier oil such as grapeseed or sweet almond oil.
A perfect gift!
Consider giving the gift of lavender to a...new bride...new mom...celebrate a special birthday, anniversary, or other occasion. Lavender is the gift that continues to give...it's affordable and invaluable. Why not keep a supply for yourself, too?
For exceptional lavender products, visit Sunnycreek Farms Home & Body Shop.
Sunnycreek Farms Home & Body Shoppe
Discover a line of exceptional products that will enhance your life. Some are designed for use in the bath and on your body. Others are designed for use in your home, closets, bureau, drawers, office and automobile.
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