Lavender is a well-known plant, which has been traditionally used by different civilizations. Because of its innumerable uses and properties.
Description of lavender
It is a small bush up to 1 meter high, with thick and woody stems. The leaves are long, pointed, very thin and with a smooth edge. The flowers are grouped in terminal spikes of blue color.
It can live about 6 years. The propagation of this perennial shrub is achieved by cutting in spring or late summer. It flowers in summer.
Localisation
It is raised in dry and drained well soils, preferably stony. Calcareous lands. Lavender likes the sun and the heat.
Traditional properties
Lavender is a well known plant, traditionally used as a magnificent muscle relaxant. It is a good anti-spasmodic for joint and muscle pain of sportsmen and sportswomen and for aches and pains.
Lavender water normalises the sebaceous glands and reduces the hair’s oiliness. It cleans oily skin that is prone to acne and prevents the appearance of pimples.
In the past it has been widely used as a soothing, anti-inflammatory and healing agent for the skin. For small non-infected wounds, cuts, scratches, itching, dermatitis, herpes, blisters, burns, flaking. Prevents wrinkles and stretch marks. Gives elasticity to the skin.
Herbal teas are used against excitement and insomnia. Lavender used to be burned in the bedrooms to ensure a deep and peaceful sleep. It has also been used for gastric conditions.
The essential oil is used to brush the hair, as it stimulates its growth. Fresh or dried flowers are used to lighten clothes and hair. It repels insects.
For stress, it is recommended to massage with oil in the areas of accumulated tension.
Other traditional uses of lavender
- The essential oil is used to flavour creams and soaps.
- It is usually mixed with rosemary and basil oil.
- The Romans placed the flowering branches in the wardrobes to impregnate the clothes with their scent.
- Baskets with lavender flowers are placed to decorate and perfume a bedroom or bathroom.
- Because of their sweet and strong aroma, the dried flowers and seeds are common ingredients in potpourri, herbal pillows and scent bags.
- The dried lavender stems are used to weave baskets and decorative bowls.
- The leaves and flowers are used in the kitchen to flavour stews, salads, jams and fruit or gelatine desserts.
- The essence is used to flavour fine spice and herb liqueurs.
- In some regions it is mixed with tea as a substitute for mint.
Cosmética y Agricultura Ecológica ACENE