Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
There are many species of Lavender but herbalists commonly use Lavandula angustifolia. Lavender is a beautiful plant that continues to flower late in the year, making it an ideal garden plant to support bees and other pollinating insects. It has a long history of medicinal usage.
The dried flowers are prepared into a tea or tisane by adding 1 tsp of dried plant material to a cup of boiling water using a teapot. Leave to infuse for 10 minutes or so, and then strain and drink once sufficiently cooled. The fresh flowers may also be used. Lavender is also commonly used as an essential oil which a wonderful calming floral scent.
Herbalists use lavender for conditions affecting the digestive system, for the skin, and for emotional well-being. A cup of lavender tea can be taken to help soothe and calm digestion, helping to relieve colic, wind and griping pains. Lavender is considered to support the nervous system by helping to both lift the spirits in mild depression whilst also being able to relieve anxiety and tension. For the skin lavender has a broad range of uses, soothing inflammation and helping to heal burns and cuts.
The essential oil may be added to the bath for relaxation. Diluted in a carrier oil, such as sweet almond or apricot kernel, lavender essential oil can be applied to the skin or used to help ease the pain of tension headaches and migraines, muscle aches and joint pains.
Before using herbal remedies consult your GP, pharmacist or Medical Herbalist if you are pregnant, breast feeding, or taking medications. Seek advice from a medical professional if your symptoms are severe or persist.
Bibliography:
Bartrum, T. ‘Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine’ (1995) Grace: Dorset
McIntyre, A. ‘Herbal Treatment of Children – Western and Ayurvedic Perspectives’ (2005) Elselvier: UK
The dried flowers are prepared into a tea or tisane by adding 1 tsp of dried plant material to a cup of boiling water using a teapot. Leave to infuse for 10 minutes or so, and then strain and drink once sufficiently cooled. The fresh flowers may also be used. Lavender is also commonly used as an essential oil which a wonderful calming floral scent.
Herbalists use lavender for conditions affecting the digestive system, for the skin, and for emotional well-being. A cup of lavender tea can be taken to help soothe and calm digestion, helping to relieve colic, wind and griping pains. Lavender is considered to support the nervous system by helping to both lift the spirits in mild depression whilst also being able to relieve anxiety and tension. For the skin lavender has a broad range of uses, soothing inflammation and helping to heal burns and cuts.
The essential oil may be added to the bath for relaxation. Diluted in a carrier oil, such as sweet almond or apricot kernel, lavender essential oil can be applied to the skin or used to help ease the pain of tension headaches and migraines, muscle aches and joint pains.
Before using herbal remedies consult your GP, pharmacist or Medical Herbalist if you are pregnant, breast feeding, or taking medications. Seek advice from a medical professional if your symptoms are severe or persist.
Bibliography:
Bartrum, T. ‘Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine’ (1995) Grace: Dorset
McIntyre, A. ‘Herbal Treatment of Children – Western and Ayurvedic Perspectives’ (2005) Elselvier: UK
