Lavender (Lavandula officinalis)

A botanical ally that lifts low mood, calms anxiety, and eases tension headaches. It can also help with rheumatic discomfort and circulation issues, as well as minor skin infections, blemishes, and cellulite.

Lavender (Lavandula officinalis) has long been admired for its calming influence. According to Japanese research, even the fragrance of lavender reduces stress. It is therefore effective for easing low mood, anxiety, and tension headaches. Lavender offers additional benefits. It soothes spasms, supports digestion, reduces bloating, and improves bile flow. It is also considered helpful for certain forms of asthma.

Lavender has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, and in topical use it calms minor skin infections, treats insect bites, and soothes burns. It features in many therapeutic baths, especially those designed to relieve circulation problems and rheumatic pain, and it can also help settle different kinds of fever. It is recommended for psychological discomfort during menopause, and in cases of low blood pressure a lavender bath can improve overall well being and refresh. Lavender baths have a long tradition. Even the ancient Romans enjoyed them.

Some authors believe the name comes from the Latin word for washing, lavare. In the Middle Ages lavender was used to mask unpleasant odours. Lavender essential oil is useful when applied externally, and it is best diluted by adding three drops to every ten liters of a base oil, for example olive oil. That blend can be used to massage the forehead and temples to ease headaches and stress, while massaging the lower abdomen and lower back can relieve painful menstrual cramps. Such massages also help with muscle aches.

In cosmetics, lavender water is used to care for delicate and sensitive skin and as an antiseptic against blemishes, while lavender essential oil, diluted in a carrier oil, supports the reduction of cellulite.

To keep moths at bay, place lavender sachets in wardrobes. The flowers are edible and pair beautifully with ice cream, cakes, jams, and jellies. Lavender grows throughout the Mediterranean and also thrives in continental Croatia. It is well worth planting in a garden for its therapeutic qualities, pleasant fragrance, and ornamental appeal.

In the garden, lavender attracts beneficial bees and protects nearby roses by discouraging aphids. It needs a sunny position and neutral to alkaline soil. Sow seed in spring, although propagation is easier from cuttings in August. Every part of the plant is aromatic and medicinal, especially the flowers. Harvest from May to June before they are fully open. At that time the essential oil content is at its peak. The flowers are then dried for teas and other remedies or processed into essential oil extract, which forms the base for ointments, creams, and gels. The finest oil is obtained from Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula stoechas.

Warning!

When used correctly, lavender does not cause adverse effects. Excessive amounts of essential oil can irritate the digestive tract and markedly affect overall condition.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using lavender preparations, although some advocate their use during the onset of labour.