Mar 03 2009
The Many Uses of Lavender
One of my favorite things to grow are herbs. They are not only beautiful to look at, but they have so many different uses; from cooking to healing to making a nice tea or to be used in soaps, oils or incenses! My favorite herb in particular would have to be lavender!
Lavender originated in the Mediterranean, but is a worldwide and a frequently used herb today. There are several different chemicals with healing properties that are contained within the oil of this beautiful herb. It can be used as an anti-depressant, an anti-inflammatory and a natural analgesic.
If you enjoy the smell of lavender and would like to make an infused oil for massages, the process is very simple. Take a glass jar and fill it with lavender buds and cover in a light oil, such as extra virgin olive oil, grape seed oil or almond oil. Let the oil sit for about a month, then strain out the lavender buds. Keep an eye on the oil over the month that it soaks, to make sure that the oil completely covers the buds at all times (if any buds are exposed to air, it is likely to get moldy and ruin the batch of oil). After straining out the buds check to see if there is any water in the oil, if there is, be sure to let the oil sit for a few more days so that it separates; you can then remove the water with a dropper.
If you enjoy the flowery taste of lavender, like I do, one my favorite summer drinks is Lavender Lemonade!
Heat
2 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 cups sugar
to a boil until all the sugar dissolves. Add
1/4 cup lavender leaves, chopped
and let cool to the room temperature. Strain out the lavender and add
2 1/2 cups water
1 cup lemon juice to the lavender infusion. Stir and add some more sugar until you find a taste that suits you. Pour mixture into a pitcher and add ice cubes.
As a hot cup of tea, lavender is a natural healer for anxiety, headaches and upset stomachs.
Soaking strips of sterile linen in a mixture of two tbls of dried lavender in a jug of hot water provides a compress for bruise or place on your chest to aid in congestion.
You can also use dried lavender in sachets, dream pillows or satin-covered herbal eye masks. You can mix lavender buds with oatmeal and crush finely with a mortar and pestle. Take the mixture and add to melted down soaps and re-mold for a new look!
Is it any wonder that Lavender is my favorite with all is many uses and extreme beauty?
~Wind
Great post, Wind~ I love the smell of lavender, and you inspire me to grow some this summer! Thanks..
Thanks for sharing - Lavender has a pleasant aroma - I enjoy many herbs - I just can’t keep them alive if I plant them - I manage to kill plastic plants. Cactus is the only thing that lives for me.