Lavender

Description

Botanical Name: Lavandula angustifolia

About This Herb: Our Lavender is the dried flower buds of English lavender, harvested at peak bloom and gently dried to preserve the iconic purple color and sweet, floral aroma. This Mediterranean native has been cherished for over 2,500 years for its perfume, culinary, and medicinal qualities. The name comes from the Latin “lavare,” meaning “to wash,” as it was used in Roman baths.

Traditional Uses: Lavender is best known as a calming nervine, traditionally used to promote relaxation, ease occasional anxiety, and support restful sleep. The aromatic compounds are directly calming to the nervous system. It’s also valued for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties for minor skin irritations, and the fragrance alone can lift the spirits.

How to Prepare:

• As a tea: Steep 1 teaspoon in hot water for 5-10 minutes. The floral, slightly sweet flavor is delightful on its own or blended with chamomile or lemon balm.

• As a bath herb: Add a handful to a muslin bag and hang under running warm water for a relaxing soak.

• For sleep: Place dried lavender in a small sachet under your pillow or near your bed.

• In cooking: Use sparingly in shortbread, honey, or herbal blends.

Safety & Considerations: Generally recognized as safe. Not for use during pregnancy in large amounts. The essential oil should not be taken internally without professional guidance. Some individuals may have skin sensitivity. Consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if managing a health condition.

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4 Recipes to Use Your Lavender

1. The “Sweet Dreams” Nightcap

A gentle, nervine-heavy blend designed to quiet the mind before bed.

• Ingredients: 1 part Lavender, 1 part Chamomile, and ½ part Lemon Balm.

• Preparation: Steep 1 tablespoon of the blend in 8 oz of hot water for 7 minutes.

• Herbalist Tip: This works wonderfully as a “Simmer Pot” blend for the bedroom as well.

2. Provence Culinary Rub

A savory, aromatic blend that elevates roasted root vegetables or grilled chicken.

• Ingredients: 1 tbsp Lavender, 2 tbsp Rosemary, 2 tbsp Thyme, and 1 tsp dried Orange Peel.

• Preparation: Coarsely grind the herbs together with a bit of sea salt.

• Why it works: Lavender adds a floral high note that cuts through the earthiness of the Rosemary and Thyme.

3. “Sun-Soothe” Herbal Bath Vinegar

Perfect for calming the skin after a long day working at the farmstand or in the garden.

• Ingredients: ¼ cup Lavender, ¼ cup Calendula flowers, and 2 cups Apple Cider Vinegar.

• Preparation: Infuse the herbs in the vinegar for 2 weeks in a cool, dark place. Strain and add ½ cup to a lukewarm bath.

• Benefit: The Lavender relaxes the nervous system while the Calendula supports skin recovery.

4. Lavender & Oat Skin-Soften Sachet

A “no-mess” way to get the benefits of herbs in the tub—perfect alongside our Goat’s Milk Soaps.

• Ingredients: 2 tbsp Lavender, 2 tbsp Rose Petals, and ½ cup colloidal oats (or finely ground oats).

• Preparation: Place in a muslin bag and hang from the faucet so the water flows through it. Hang from your shower too!