Amazing Lavender Herb

Lavender has often been called "the queen of herbs" and indeed it is, to the extent that 1999 was named the Year of Lavender. Lavender has been cultivated and used for thousands of years, by the Egyptians, Phoenicians, Arabians, Greeks and Romans who took it into England. It’s a Mediterranean herb that grows in the wild, including those in the French and Mediterranean Alps. It’s hardy, aromatic and medicinal, growing in altitudes of up to 6000 feet. The essential aromatic oils in lavender continue to be used for internal and external uses and for a wide range of ailments in addition to use in cooking.

One generally associates lavender with its aromatic properties and its use in soaps, perfumes and creams. The uses of lavender go way beyond toiletries. It has untold properties including antibacterial, antiseptic, carminative, nervine (for calming nerves) stimulant, expectorant, antispasmodic and of course cosmetic. Lavender has long been used for preventing childhood infections and in soothing temper tantrums in small children. Common uses include treatment of burns including severe burns and scalding, cuts, grazes, eczema, dermatitis, inflammation, headaches, nausea, migraines, fainting, insomnia, boils, acne, bacterial infections, rheumatism and arthritis. The nontoxic germicidal agents in lavender oils, linalool and linalool acetate are responsible for the healing process.

Humans and animals experience a sedative and calming effect on inhaling lavender and the effect resembles those of geranium and peppermint. This may be why these aromatic herbs are used for treating premenstrual syndrome, sleep disorders and depression. Lavender is commonly used in toiletries and beauty products. Aromatherapy uses lavender in its treatment and products include lavender scented candles, oils and sleep pillows for depression.

Lavender products made with lavender oil and buds are popular gift items in myriad products including, soaps, bath bomb fizzers, sachets, bath oils, lotions, perfumes, salts, skin and hair care products and all kinds of sprays. All these products promote relaxation and create a feeling of peace and calmness.

In the home lavender is used in recipes and in cleaning products where it leaves its wonderful aroma. Many historical figures have been associated with lavender. Queen Elizabeth I drank lavender tea to alleviate migraines and other ailments. Queen Victoria had all her floors and furniture cleaned with lavender for its fresh aroma. During World War I, nurses used lavender washes as an antiseptic to treat wounds among the soldiers.

Lavender has become the rage among the upscale restaurants. The fresh edible flowers are used to enhance flavor and appearance of foods in the home and in fancy restaurants. Lavender is a close relation to thyme, sage and rosemary, being a member of the mint family and the leaves, flowers and stems can be used fresh or dried. Lavender is best used in combination with other herbs like fennel, savory, oregano and its close relatives sage, rosemary and thyme. Lavender oils are extremely aromatic and must be used in cooking with extreme moderation or the dish will become bitter and smell like perfume. So next time you have guests, add a touch of lavender to wow them and enjoy a great and relaxing meal.