I remember the first time I saw a field of lavender.

It looked like a giant purple sea and the smell was amazing. I will never forget it!

Lavender is a beautifully scented herb which has been grown for around 2,500 years and is known as a calming and relaxing herb used for anxiety, insomnia, depression and natural stress relief. It is a relative of plants such as mint, marjoram, sage and thyme. Easy to use all you need to do is breathe in the scent for instant stress relief.

Aromatherapy uses the therapeutic properties of Essential Oils and lavender is the most popular aromatherapy oil used today. We are greatly influenced by smell and it is one of our most powerful senses. It is thought that aromas relate to that part of the brain which accumulates our feelings and memories so it can trigger off a strong emotional response. Generally, people respond to aromas in an individual way, so you need to find out how lavender works for you personally.

Lavender is considered to be a mood balancing herb that has a calming effect. Used as a bath oil to de-stress, it is a practice originating in Persia, Greece and Rome. You can also use it as a massage oil to help with reducing muscle tension.

Lavender scented candles can create a lovely soothing atmosphere in your home. They set the mood and create a sense of peace. Candles are also less expensive than using other aromatherapy treatments so you can afford to use them often to quickly create a serene atmosphere.

Dried flower heads can be added to pillows to help relax you and prepare you for sleep. The fresh or dried flowers and leaves can also be added to your bath or foot bath. It’s little wonder why so many of us choose this powerful method of healing and wellness in this age of ever increasing stress levels and demands on our time.

Grow your own lavender in a sunny position in the garden, prune the plant often and don’t overwater. My favorite types are English and French lavender which grow to about 3 – 4 foot. Experience the lavender scents wafting through your garden and making it a place to relax and rejuvenate. Collect the flower heads and leaves and dry them out or use the whole flower stems with other flowers as floral displays in your home.

Small studies on lavender for anxiety show mixed results but I think that is because the herb is mainly used on a short time basis so the results are not so accurate. You are the best judge of whether the use of lavender can be beneficial to you. If you are pregnant or suffering from cancer please consult your doctor before using lavender. Also using lavender with sedative medications may increase drowsiness.

With the hectic lives we lead lavender can create that instant stress relief that we are looking for. Burn a candle, use the oil or just breathe in the beautiful aroma from an arrangement made of freshly cut lavender stalks.

Get rid of that stress and anxiety in your life now.