Lavender: The Many Healing Properties of Lavender

Ah the magical powers of lavender. The mere mention of lavender brings to mind fields in France, relaxation, and a peaceful day at your favorite spa. Not only does lavender have a pleasing scent, but it's healing properties are extensive.

Lavender dates as far back as the early Egyptians. The Egyptians wrapped their dead in lavender dipped shrouds. The Ancient Greeks used lavender to fight aching backs, insanity and insomnia. But, the Romans used lavender in public baths, which is where it gets it's name: from the Latin term Lavare: meaning to wash. It's also highly likely that the Romans brought lavender to Britain.

During the Middle Ages, Benedictine Monks used lavender as a medicine. London Peddlers used it as a charm against evil, and as an aphrodisiac. It was used as a plague remedy as well. And it's still used today to keep mice away!

Lavender became ornamental during the Renaissance. It was often used for low hedges, as well as in decorative gardens.

The Victorians also used Lavender in gardens, and were the first to bring the plant inside. They washed floors and linens with lavender water, and used it to repel moths. During the Victorian era lavender was also used in crafts and love spells. It was said that clothing rubbed with the fragrant flower, or lavender placed in drawers with clothing would attract love. And a piece of paper on which lavender was rubbed was thought to be excellent for writing love notes.

During World War I, lavender was used on the front lines as an antiseptic. It was discovered to be excellent for burns, cuts and other skin conditions.

Today France has far surpassed Britain as the world leader of the lavender trade. Today, the French produce over 1000 tons of essential oil annually. It takes 80 pounds of lavender to make 1 ounce of oil; it's very concentrated! To give you an idea: it only takes about 2 drops of essential oil of lavender in a full tub of water to have a relaxing bath time experience.

Lavender has many, many uses. Personally, it is my all time favorite essential oil. Essential oil of lavender's uses are limitless. A few examples: a couple drops on your pillow aids in sleep. Rub a drop on your temples and it alleviates a headache. Put some in a diffuser and as well as having a calming affect, it makes your house smell wonderful. Give lavender a try to let me know if you love it as much as I do. I've attached a couple of helpful links below.