Lavender
Lavendula officinalis
The term lavender is derived from the Latin word for wash,
indicating its early use as a bath and laundry additive.
Even today, the aromatic plant is used for this purpose.
It is cultivated in large quantities, especially in the Mediterranean region,
where it is native to the coasts and thrives perfectly in sunny and dry locations,
and is used in perfumes and skin care products.
Its health benefits were already appreciated in the 12th century.
Hildegard von Bingen, for example, used lavender against head lice.
Later it was used against flatulence, stomach cramps and anxiety.
Today, lavender is used not only for many physical ailments,
but also for psychological ailments such as depression, insomnia and nervousness.
Name: Lavender, Lavandula officinalis
Other names: Nervous herb, lavander, vertigo herb, Tobacco flowers, Balsam, Fanda, Brainwort, Lavandel
Family: Labiates
Harvest months: Jun-Aug
Usable plant parts: Flowers
Leaf shape: linear
Flower color: blue, purple
Habitat: dry, rocky and sunny slopes
Toxicity: non-toxic
Warning: Lavender essential oil can cause respiratory problems in asthma
and respiratory distress in babies and young children when applied to the mouth and nose.
Overdose may cause stomach and intestinal irritation. Due to the sleep-inducing effect,
concentration may be impaired.
Ingredients: essential oils, coumarins, flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, camphor, monoterpenes, phytosterols, saponins, sesquiterpenes
Properties: antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, sedative, circulatory, decongestant, anti-inflammatory, soporific, wound healing
Helps with: anxiety, high blood pressure, inflammation, exhaustion, shingles, skin problems, heart problems, cough, insect bites, toothache
Plant uses
Cooking:
When eaten Lavender has a pungent floral flavor,
with subtle notes of earthiness and mint.
Every part of the plant can be used in cooking
Health:
Lavender can reduce stress, relieve pain and help treat sleep disorders and depression.
Beauty:
Lavender is especially recommended for the care of aged skin,
because it has a regenerating effect, smoothes the complexion and has antioxidant properties.
It also has an anti-inflammatory effect, so it is recommended for the care of oily and blemished skin.
In addition, lavender oil effectively reduces hair loss.
