Lavender, a Natural Herbal Supplement
Lavender has long been used for its soft, calming scent.
Its name derives from the Latin word lavare, which means “to
wash.” Still today, the fragrance is added to bath soaps, detergents,
cosmetic products, potpourri, and candles. But besides its lovely
smell, lavender contains medicinal properties, too!
The oil of the flower is what gives it its scent. The therapeutic
qualities of lavender fragrance have long been known to produce
a calming effect on the senses. In truth, the scent slows the
reactions of the nervous system, encouraging the body into relaxation.
People who suffer from sleep disorders may take lavender as
a tea, or may have the essential oils massaged into their skin
as part of their treatment.
There are types of lavender that are not as hardy like French
lavender and Spanish lavender, so you have to choose carefully.
Lavender blooms year after year; always faithful. Each flower
stem has to be harvested just when the flowers start to open
up.
At this point the essential oils are at their peak. Lavender
thrives in full sun and prefers sandy, sweet soil. It is a real
joy to look out into the herb garden when the lavender is putting
on "her show". The air is taken over with a spicy, sweetness
that exudes summer. On a hot, humid afternoon, or just after
a rain, everyone who visits wants to know what is creating the
fragrance.
Skin and hair ailments have also been treated with lavender.
Alopecia patients have noticed less hair loss when massaging
their scalps with lavender oils. Eczema, acne, and fungal infections
have been successfully treated with lavender.
Lavender is a fairly hearty plant and can quickly grow large
and strong in any herbal garden. Aside from fresh sprigs of
lavender, this supplement is also available in the form of:
soaps, oils, lotions, infusions, extracts, tinctures, and dried
flowers.
For tea, one or two teaspoons of the dried herb can be used
per one cup of boiling water.
As with all supplements, a doctor should be consulted before
use—especially when taking other medications or supplements.
A knowledgeable herbalist or alternative medicine practitioner
will also be able to provide information on drug interactions
or possible side effects.
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