Lavender

The Lavender plant has been held in high regard for centuries as a washing herb the name Lavender evolved from the Latin lavare, which means, “to wash.” It originated in the Mediterranean basin and it has been used in many ancient cultures. Today Lavender is found worldwide. The fragrance that arises from Lavender and the vibrant color of the flower brings joy to many individuals who encounter with the beauty that radiates from this particular plant.

The beauty of this plant lays many medicinal benefits. Today it is one of the highest used herbs in aromatherapy, herbal medicine, and flower remedies; it has a broad range of healing properties. This plant is a sturdy flowering perennial and is a unique gift to any autoimmune disease healing protocol. The plant, flowers, and seeds all have that distinct lavender smell yet the oil derived from the flowers is the most important medical component. Lavender oil is extracted mostly from the flowers of the lavender plant, primarily through steam distillation. The oil contains several chemicals with healing properties that compliment one another.

source: homesteadsurvival lavender-and-its-loveliness

Medicinal Qualities

The health benefits of lavender oil for the skin can be attributed to its antiseptic and anti-fungal properties. It is used to treat various skin disorders such as acne, wrinkles, psoriasis, and other inflammations. It helps heals wounds, cuts, and burns. Lavender oil is used for various respiratory problems the oil is either used in the form of vapor or applied on the skin of neck, chest, and back. Lavender is one of the few essential oils that can be applied directly to the skin undiluted. It can be added to Chamomile oil to treat eczema It is very effective on insect bites and is known to repel mosquitoes. Lavender essential oil is also an excellent remedy for various types of pains including those caused by sore muscles. A regular massage with lavender oil provides relief from pain in the joints.

Lavender in Aromatherapy

In aromatherapy, lavender is one of the most used essential oils. It can be used in treating depression, insomnia, palpitations, anxiety, and nervousness. It has freshened many beds and linen drawers in its time. Lavender’s antiseptic properties are provided by linalool, which effectively kills bacteria and viruses. The ketones from the oil of the lavender plant have the ability to effectively reduce pain and inflammation and even help induce sleep. The aldehydes in the oils of the lavender plant are responsible for the aroma and the soothing properties. 

source: surrealgardening. lavender

Lavender Tea Bread-

Ingredients:

3/4 cup milk

2 Tbsp. dried lavender flowers, finely chopped, or 3 Tbsp. fresh chopped flowers
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
6 Tbsp. butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs

Grease a 9x5x3 inch loaf pan.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
Heat milk with lavender almost to a boil, then steep until cool.
Mix flour, baking powder and salt together in bowl.
In another bowl cream butter and gradually add sugar, then eggs, one at a time, beating until light and fluffy.

 

 source: Old-Moss-Womans-Secret-Garden