Kitchen Herbs and Medicinal Uses - Lavender

Lavender is part of the mint family of plants, and of itself there are 39 species of lavender! Lavender has been used since Roman times and used for monetary trading. Lavender has been known for its culinary uses. The buds and flowers have been used in both raw and cooked dishes, dressings and condiments, also used as edible decorations. Lavender is also known for its medicinal uses. Most commonly for relaxation and sleep.

Lavender plant/flowers or its essential oils can be placed near the bed which then helps alleviate anxiety and ease a person into sleep. Other uses of lavender is to take lavender internally, in a tea, via inhalation, or capsule to help with nervousness, anxiety, depression, insomnia and headaches. Lavender relaxes and calms the mind and skin thus soothing tense and sore muscles. In addition, lavender can be used to help with digestive issues such as flatulence, nausea,  and loss of appetite.

Some have used lavender topically as an insect repellant and to help with painful joints. Lavender is well known for it skin and wound care. Lavender has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, thus used in wound sprays and salves can help to guard against infection and discomforts due to burns, and sunburns. Other skin issues such as redness and itchy scalp, lavender can help relieve but improving oil production on the skin.

Lavender can be used in teas, salves, tinctures, extracts, and infusions. Sometimes combined with mints or chamomile.

Lavender bath:

3.5 cups Epsom salts

0.5 cups Dried Lavender buds

2 tbsp Sweet Almond oil

20 drops Lavender Essential Oil

Mix and store in canning jar. Add 1 to 2 cups to warm bath water as it is filling.

Lavender Tea:

Pour 1 cup hot water over ½ tsp loose lavender buds

Steep 5 minutes