Spices, Plants and Natural Remedies >> Lavender

This fragrant, pathway hedge contains essential oils, eucalyptol and linalool. The plant has deep, purple or white flowers. It is popularly used to make scent and perfumes. Bathing in lavender water is considered to be soothing and refreshing. It acts as a substitute for perfume. Lavender scents are used as mental relaxants that raise the spirit. Lavender ointments are rubbed into burns, bruises, varicose veins and other skin injuries. The oil, when dabbed on, stops the itching of insect bites.

Lavender is one of the most popular ingredients for skin creams, lotions and hair conditioners.

• Lavender flowers can be soaked overnight in water. This can be used as a good body splash.
  
• A compound tincture of lavender can be used to relieve muscle spasms, nervousness and headaches.
• Rubbing a few drops of lavender oil on the temple cures a headache almost instantly.
  
• Lavender's essential oil is a potent ally in destroying a wide range of bacterial infections, pneumonia and flu viruses. It is also strongly anti-fungal.
  
• Lavender sachets kept between clothes and woollens is an effective insect repellant that deters wool moths and mosquitoes.