The name Lavender comes from the Latin word “lavare” which means “to wash”. The Romans used lavender flowers as a fragrance for clothing, bedding, baths, and hair. Also known to us as Common lavender, it was also used in Greek times, which was named Naarda (Nard) after a city in Syria. We know several cultivated species, but the most widespread is the common, narrow-leaved lavender with the botanical name Lavandula angustifolia.

Today, lavender is found on the sunny slopes of the Mediterranean. It also grows in a wild in some areas of France, Spain, Italy and North Africa. This evergreen plant needs a lot of light so we will not find it in shady places. We use it as an ornamental plant that emits an extremely pleasant smell, and its use is quite diverse.

Lavender as a fragrance and house moth repellent

Dried lavender will be seen several times as part of home decoration. It can be used as a bouquet or just put flowers in a cotton pouch, which is useful in wardrobes. The dried flowers of the plant emit an intense and pleasant smell that fill the room, disinfects the laundry and repels insects and house moths. In addition to the decorative effect, lavender also acts as a sedative in the form of tea or bath.

Lavender as a culinary addition

Common lavender is often used in aromatherapy due to its attractive smell and many beneficial properties, but it is also useful in cooking. Lavender is an exceptional herb for preparing various desserts, appetizers, jams, teas, toppings and ice creams. It is also used in combination with alcoholic beverages, liqueurs and cocktails.

Caution should be taken when choosing the right type of lavender. We know several types, and some are not suitable for consumption as they can cause nausea or poisoning if consumed in large quantities. The most widespread and used type of lavender in cooking is Lavandula Angustifolia or Common lavender.

Prepare lavender syrup with honey:

• 2.5 dcl of honey
• 1.2 dcl of brown sugar
• 2.4 dcl of water
• 1 tablespoon of lavender flowers

Bolil the water with lavender flowers and simmer for 5 minutes. Add brown sugar and honey, and cook until sugar is dissolved. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Allow the syrup to cool down.

Lavender tea

The effect of lavender and infusion tea is mild compared to the essential oil, but it still soothes and has a beneficial effect against stress and headaches. It also helps against insomnia and eliminates digestive problems, relieves itching, promotes appetite, regulates digestion, eliminates abdominal cramps, bloating and prevents fainting.

Lavender tea can also be used to rinse minor wounds or abrasions as it accelerates healing. It also helps eliminate acne and pimples.

Recipe for making lavender tea:

• 2 fresh or dried lavender flowers
• 1 long dried lavender stalk
• 1.5 liters of water

When the water boils, reduce the temperature and place the flowers and stem in it. Cover the pot and turn it off. Leave covered for at least 8 minutes, then drain. Lavender tea can be drunk warm or chilled.

Lavender bath

Soothing lavender baths have an anti-stress effect and improve blood circulation to the skin. The bath can be prepared with dried flowers or with essential oil. The essential oil in the bath soothes redness on the skin, soothes irritated and sensitive skin. It is important, however, that the bath is not used by people with extensive skin damage, open wounds or acute skin diseases, severe infections, or high fever.

In addition to the bath, the essential oil can also be used to prepare a scalp rinse that removes lice, nourishes the hair and scalp.

Lavender essential oils for a better everyday

The use of lavender extract or essential oil is very popular. Due to its many beneficial effects, it is used by those who have problems with insomnia, excessive stress or skin problems. It is only necessary to emphasize that the essential oil should be kept out of the reach of children and consult a doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Be carefull to not come in contact with eyes.

Tips for using lavender essential oil:

• A few drops on the pillow, bedding or feet before bed.
• Carry a bottle of lavender for minor skin problems
• Take internally under stress and anxiety
• Use it in cooking for sauces, syrups and desserts.

Put lavender essential oil in your everyday life with a mixture of other oils or balms, or use it for aromatherapy via incense sticks and vaporizers and experience many positive effects.