Lavender

Provence Lavender in bloom

History of Lavender ...
One of the oldest known herbs, lavender is prized for its fragrance, color and beauty. It is one of the most popular scents in the world and is widely recognized because of its versatility. From common uses like freshening closets and dressers to my personal goal of teaching that lavender is a wonderful herb to cook with, it is a pleasure to grow lavender in the garden and to use it every day.

It is difficult to pinpoint the origins of lavender, however the Greek writer, Dioscorides, documented a list of plants and their medicinal uses which served as a reliable resource until the sixteenth century. So, lavender is native to the Mediterranean region and grows in many countries throughout the world. It is believed that it was one of the very first herbs brought to America by the colonists.

Lavender is a very practical herb, with many, many uses. Early use of lavender was "strewing", or where lavender and other strong scented herbs were scattered on the floor to mask odors and act as a deodorizer, antiseptic and insecticide. This practice continued throughout the centuries and I have been known to scatter lavender florets on our wool rugs in spring, leaving them on the floor for several days pushing the florets deep into the fibers. It makes for a delightful vacuuming experience!

Lavender historically has been a major player in medicine bags and chests due to its healing qualities and is nearly a cure-all! Lavender relieves headaches, calms nerves, eases menstrual problems, heals acne, soothes insect bites, helps with vertigo, memory loss, melancholy and more. Today, it is still used in herbal remedies and is oftentimes the first choice of massage therapists for their clients. Dream and eye pillows and sachets of all sorts filled with lavender are natural sleep aids, ease stress or depression. Although lavender is an herbal remedy and natural, lavender can be dangerous if used incorrectly, so take caution if you have other allergic reactions to herbs. Refer to a registered herbalist or practitioner especially for internal applications and if you have specific concerns.

Lavender Soothes
Relieve stress naturally with the calming scent of lavender. It eases headaches and can be used as a sleep aid. Just tuck an eye pillow or sachet into your bed pillow or relax in a lavender bath.

Lavender Bath Recipe:
Place fresh or dried lavender into a muslin bag or tea ball. Steep the flowers in your bath water and enjoy the soothing fragrance released by the heat and steam for a relaxing soak.

For the Garden
Lavender repels moles, flies, mosquitoes, and deer do not care for it. Lavender planted near roses, annuals, vegetables or other "deer candy" will deter them. Lavender plants are offered at Farmers' Markets and during events in Spring and Fall.

For Weddings & Celebrations
Did you know that lavender is the herb of devotion, joy and luck? Imagine harvesting fresh lavender for your celebration. You may have a floral designer in mind, need recommendations or wish to gather an armload and be off to create your own vision. Center pieces, bouquets, head pieces, keepsakes and gifts for the wedding party. Lavender preserves beautifully too.