Lavender is an antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-convulsive, and antidepressant. Internally, it can be taken to help with stress, anxiety, exhaustion, irritability, headache, migraines, insomnia, depression, cold, digestive problems, upset stomachs, nervousness and as a breath freshener. Stress? Exhaustion? Insomnia? Headaches? This is starting to sound like a miracle drug for me!
Externally, lavender can be used to help heal cuts, scrapes, burns, bruises, stings/bites, rashes, muscle aches, arthritis, col and canker sores, blisters, athlete's foot, and can be rubbed on the temples to help relieve migraines.
So, how do you get this magical plant into your system to start its magic? You can take essential oil, but it is fairly harsh and can cause nausea in some folks. A better option is to make a quick tea by boiling leaves and flowers in water and drink with some honey) or try it in lavender lemonade (see recipe below). It can be put into a salve for external use and just smelling lavender essential oil or the fresh flowers can be a quick and easy mood brightener.
This herb is safe to be used in moderation during pregnancy (but beware- high doses can cause uterine contractions). Apparently, its safety while breastfeeding has not been tested, but again, in small doses (like a cup of tea or glass of lemonade) I believe this is a pretty safe herb.
- 5 cups water
- 1.5 cups sugar or sweetener (or more or less to your taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped lavender leaves
- 1 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (about 4 lemons worth)
- Ice cubes
Pin It Now!
I'm learning about lavender as well, at the moment. We have a lavender farm near us and I am gaining knowledge from the owners. I was surprised that certain varieties can invigorate. Made lavender cake yesterday and it was wonderfully refreshing!
ReplyDeleteI'm crazy for lavender! I'm putting in a new row of it along my southern foundation because the few plants I have are so wonderful. My neighbor has a lavender farm and sells all kinds of fantastic products and makes wands and such.
ReplyDeleteSounds yummy! I've only used lavender culinarily once...in a lavender cake. Thanks for the other suggestions!
ReplyDelete