Lavender

May 17, 2005

Lavender

(Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender is best known for its calming, relaxing effects. That’s why folk medicine recommends it for healing nervous disorders. "Lavender: comes from the Latin lavare, which means "to wash." The Romans prized lavender for its intense aroma and used it in cosmetics and in their famous baths.

Plant Facts:

Lavender is a member of the mint family and grows in the form of dense bushes 2-3 feet in height. Its flowers and leaves are covered with numerous oil glands. The plant has a slightly bitter taste but it has a strong pleasantly fragrant aroma.

Parts Used:

The flowers, harvested as buds, and their essential oil are both used medicinally.

Components:

The essential oil contained in lavender flowers has a calming effect. It is comprised primarily of linalool acetate and linalool. The flowers also contain tannins, coumarins and flavonoids.

Indication:

Taken internally, lavender is a mild sedative. It counteracts feelings of restlessness and dizziness, and it brings welcome relief to those suffering from headaches and migraines. It also eases stomach discomfort and symptoms of nervous intestinal disorders, such as flatulence and bloating. Added to your bath, lavender is especially relaxing. Applied externally, lavender soothes sore muscles and reduces swelling, so it’s beneficial for bruises ad sprains. It also helps alleviate depression. On sleepless nights, place a lavender sachet under your pillow to induce drowsiness.

Little Lore:

A sixteenth-century English herbalist noted that lavender, in common use as a remedy and perfume, would "help the panting and passion of the heart."

Methods of Administration:

Tea infusion:

For nervousness and sleeplessness, pour 1 cup boiling water over 1-2 tsp. lavender flowers. Cover and steep. Strain after 5-10 min.

Flower extract:

European medications for the nerves, liver, gallbladder and hart contain lavender flower extract. Throughout the world, it is found in bath oils, bath salts, and liniments.

Lavender oil:

For muscle cramps and rheumatic symptoms, combine 15 drops of lavender oil with 1 oz. of vegetable oil; rub into the affected parts. If you suffer from bad headaches ad migraines, massage 1 drop of oil into your temples. Or mix 5 drops of oil in 1-2 cups hot or cold water. Dip a washcloth into water, wring it out; then place it on the back of the next to 2-10 min.

Bath:

For poor circulation and low blood pressure; Bring 1 tbsp. of flowers to a boil in 1 qt. of water. Strain after 10 min. and add to bathwater. Or, simply add 5 drops of oil directly into the bathwater.

Before undertaking the advice contained here, you should consult with a health care professional, who can better assess your individual needs, symptoms and treatments.

~The Complete Guide to Natural Healing~

Brightest BlessingsAni