Lavender is a beloved herb known for its vibrant distinctive colour and fragrant, calming scent and versatile uses. This purple flowering plant, scientifically known as Lavandula, has been cherished for centuries for its therapeutic properties. Whether you are looking to relax, improve your health, or simply enjoy a delightful aroma, lavender is a wonderful addition to your wellness routine.

Medicinal uses are anti anxiety, antiseptic, antispasmodic, bile-producing, diuretic, nerving gas, sedative and stimulant.

Lavender Tea: A Soothing Elixir

One of the most popular uses of lavender is in tea. Made from dried buds, lavender tea offers a gentle, floral flavour.

I just stripped the flowers from my neighbours plant, as in the photo, and stuck them in the tea pot and have been drinking it for the past few days. I’ve been feeling very chilled, knowing it is calming my nervous system and working as an anti inflammatory and soothing to my digestion!

To make lavender tea:

  • Start with a teaspoon of dried lavender flowers, or one teaspoon of fresh lavender flowers.
  • Place in a teapot and cover with one cup of of boiling water.
  • Allow to steep for 10  minutes to absorb the medicinal qualities.
  • Stain and enjoy several times a day.

Drinking lavender tea can help to:

  • Promote Relaxation: Renowned for its calming effects, a warm cup before bedtime can ease anxiety and improve sleep quality.
  • Aid Digestion: Lavender tea can alleviate digestive issues such as bloating, nausea, and indigestion. Its mild antispasmodic properties can soothe an upset stomach.
  • Reduce Inflammation: The anti-inflammatory properties of lavender make it excellent for reducing inflammation in the body.
  • Lowering Blood Pressure: Removing excess fluids help lower the blood pressure and reduce swellings of all kinds, and the relaxing effects of the lavender helps get rid of stresses that may be contributing to the problem.

Other uses of Lavender

Aromatherapy: Relaxing and Rejuvenating

Lavender is an important relaxing herb having a soothing and relaxing effect upon the nervous system in most cases all that it required is to breathe in the aroma from the oil. This relaxes the body, relieve stress, calms the nervous system and eases headaches. The same effects can be achieved by adding a whole fresh or dried flowers to the bathwater or placing the flowers under the pillowcase bedtime. Lavender at bath time can be enhanced by lowering the lights and adding a candle to the bathroom, making this a ’taking time out’ session.

My son and I have used over the years for a good nights sleep using the aromatherapy oil on wrists, temple, chest and pillow before sleep. Lavender soap is also great for the skin and the smell just says calm to me.

Lavender’s relaxing scent is widely used in aromatherapy. Here are a few ways to incorporate lavender into your daily routine:

  • Essential Oil: Add a few drops of lavender essential oil to a diffuser to create a calming atmosphere in your home. The scent can help reduce stress, anxiety, and even mild pain.
  • Bath Soak: Adding lavender essential oil or dried lavender buds to your bath can provide a soothing experience, relaxing muscles and calming the mind.
  • Sleep Aid: Place a sachet of dried lavender under your pillow or use a lavender-scented spray on your linens to promote a restful night’s sleep. The calming aroma is excellent for reducing insomnia and improving overall sleep quality.

Lavender offers several other health benefits:

  • Skin Care: Lavender oil is known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for treating minor burns, cuts, and skin irritations. It can also help with acne and eczema.
  • Headache Relief: Inhaling lavender oil or applying it to the temples can help relieve headaches and migraines.
  • Natural Cleaner: Lavender has antibacterial properties, making it an excellent addition to natural cleaning products.

Lavender is in season and thriving in most gardens right now, so make the most of this health and wellness plant. It is relatively easy to grow and can thrive in both gardens and pots.