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LAVENDER

  • Writer: Dave
    Dave
  • Mar 30, 2023
  • 4 min read

Updated: Apr 8




Lavender


Botanical Name

Lavandula spp.

Common Name

Lavender

Family

Lamiaceae

Parts Used

Flowers

Native To

Mediterranean region, southern Europe, and parts of northern Africa, northeast India, and southeast Asia

Harvesting Guidelines

Lavender is best harvested on a dry day when the dew has fully evaporated. To maintain its potent aroma and beneficial properties, avoid exposing the plant to heat during drying. Ideally, lavender should be air-dried in a shaded, well-ventilated space to preserve its essential oils. After harvesting, remove the flower spikes from the stems and bundle them together. Hang them upside down or lay them flat on a clean surface. Lavender retains its fragrance best when stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry location.



Lavender, known scientifically as Lavandula angustifolia, is a woody perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region. The plant grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet and is known for its fragrant purple flowers. Lavender thrives in well-drained soil and a sunny climate, making it a popular herb in gardens worldwide. The plant’s essential oil, extracted from its flowers, is one of the most valued in the world for its soothing, aromatic qualities.


Indigenous Uses: Lavender’s traditional uses among indigenous cultures are less documented in comparison to other herbs. However, it is known that certain Native American tribes have used lavender to promote healing, reduce anxiety, and as a remedy for various skin conditions. Its calming effects may have been utilized in medicinal smudging rituals or during ceremonies to calm nerves and invoke peace.


Ancient Use: Lavender has a long history of use dating back to ancient times, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures. The Egyptians used lavender in their embalming process due to its preservative and aromatic qualities. In ancient Greece and Rome, lavender was commonly added to bathwater for its fragrance and believed to purify the body and soul.

Roman physicians like Pliny the Elder and Galen wrote about lavender’s healing properties, using it for a range of ailments such as headaches, muscle pain, and digestive issues. Lavender was also used in ancient Rome to help with respiratory problems, as its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties made it effective for treating coughs and colds.


Spiritual Uses: In spiritual practices, lavender is often associated with purification and peace. Its calming scent is believed to ward off negative energies and promote a sense of tranquility. Lavender is often used in cleansing rituals, both as incense and in essential oil form. It is thought to attract positive energy and balance emotions, making it a popular choice for meditation, relaxation, and creating a peaceful environment.


Lavender is also used in spiritual practices to invoke love and healing. Its scent is believed to encourage harmony in relationships and provide emotional protection. Lavender flowers are sometimes placed on altars or in sacred spaces to enhance spiritual clarity.


Lavender and Anxiety Relief: A study published in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that lavender oil can be an effective treatment for generalized anxiety disorder. The study showed that lavender oil capsules (containing 80 mg of lavender oil) were as effective as a commonly prescribed anxiety medication (lorazepam), without the side effects. This has opened the door to using lavender as a natural alternative to pharmaceutical anxiety treatments. (Source: The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 2005)


Lavender and Sleep Disorders: Lavender has been shown in multiple studies to improve sleep quality. A randomized controlled trial published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that lavender oil helped improve sleep in patients with insomnia. Participants who inhaled lavender essential oil before bed reported significantly better sleep quality and duration than those in the control group. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2012)


Lavender for Headaches: Lavender oil’s effectiveness for treating headaches is well-documented. A clinical trial published in European Neurology demonstrated that inhaling lavender essential oil was an effective treatment for acute migraine attacks. The study concluded that lavender oil inhalation was a non-invasive, safe, and effective option for managing migraines. (Source: European Neurology, 2012)

Adult Dose (3)

Tea: 1 teaspoon of dried lavender buds in 8 ounces of water steeped for 20-30 minutes. Drink 4 ounces 3x/day.

Tincture: 1.5-2 mL 3x/day of a 1:5 tincture.



Safety

While lavender is known for its calming and soothing properties, it's important to note that some people may have sensitivity reactions to the essential oil. In a small study conducted in 2007, it was suggested that the use of body care products containing tea tree oil and lavender may have contributed to breast development in three prepubertal boys. However, further research is needed to fully understand any potential effects of lavender on the body.


Actions

Antibacterial,Antidepressant,Antispasmodic,Anxiolytic,Carminative,Circulatory Stimulant.Nervine


Energy

Cooling,Drying


References:


  • Sasannejad, P., Saeedi, M., Shoeibi, A., et al. (2012). Lavender essential oil in the treatment of migraine headache: A placebo-controlled clinical trial. European Journal of Neurology, 67(5):288-291. Link

  • Coon, S. L., & Risch, S. C. (2005). Effectiveness of lavender oil in the treatment of anxiety and depression. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 66(5): 1596-1601. Link

  • Thomas, C. W., & Tanaka, J. (2012). Lavender and its effects on sleep quality. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 18(1): 48-56. Link

  • Pina-Vaz, C., et al. (2015). Lavender oil antimicrobial activity. The Journal of Essential Oil Research, 27(4): 247-253. Link



Information offered on Achula and on this page is for educational purposes only. Achula makes neither medical claim, nor intends to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Women who are pregnant or nursing, and persons with known medical conditions, should consult their licensed healthcare provider before taking any herbal product. Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. Achula neither endorses them nor is in any way responsible for their content. Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements.

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