Lavender - the Queen of Herbs

The word Lavender is originated from the Latin word Lavare which means "to wash". Lavender was first found in the south of France and Italy. After that, it was cultivated in England, France and Yugoslavia. Today, it flourishes throughout southern Europe, Australia and the United States as well. Lavender from Provence, France is the most sought after.

The lavender is a flowering plant from the Lamiaceae family and much closely related to the mint family. Lavender has also been bestowed the title of "Queen of Herbs". Lavender dwells in dry climates. The shape of the flower is looks like wheat with layer of fur on it, shape of star and pale purple in color hence the word of lavender is use to define such color. The beautiful color usually blooms in the month of June. Lavender leaves are a hue of grayish green and the stalk is long and thin; it's easily reaches 3ft height. The scent emitted from this plant is strong and heavy. This scent is known to help balance and calm the mind. Because of this, it is known to have repairing properties to the body. Besides that, lavender is also known for its cleansing abilities.

Medicinal Uses

Ancient Greeks used lavender to cure coughs. During the Roman times, they used it in their bath and to disinfect wounds. The well known "Roman Baths" frequently used lavender for a more relaxing sensation. Lavender was also used in West Europe to kill gems and bacteria. In Europe, it was used as a filling for scented pouches and then placed into drawers to keep bugs and mites away.

Lavender was also used to cure burns and skin conditions. Aromatherapy fans would have heard of a popular chemist named Gattefosse from Grasse. Gatefosse was once conducting an experiment in the lab and he accidentally burnt himself. He immediately dipped his hand in a lavender water concoction. After that, he found that his wound healed quickly. This prompted him to experiment and study more on the functions and benefits of lavender and therefore the first book on aromatherapy was written.

Since then, lavender was widely used to cure bruises, frost bite, acne and dermatitis, and skin inflammation. Besides that, lavender was found to be a cure for headaches and repelling fleas. Gardeners would place lavender on their head gears in order to avoid headaches.

Lavender scents ate favored by ladies. It ranks second after the scent of rose. Ladies used lavender to make a scented pouch and then sew them onto their skirts. Till now, soaps and fragrance manufacturers commonly use lavender as one of the key ingredient. Lavender essential oils are the most common used oil. Of all the essential oil, lavender is one the few that can be applied directly topically. The scent of lavender is best recommended to people who are new to aromatherapy as it is easily accepted.

Best grown in high altitude

France produces 15,000kg of lavender annually. The heights of altitude determine the quality of lavender growth; the highest place is a best quality for lavender to grow.

In Provence, the Alps produce the best lavender of all times. You must visit and take a walk in lavender fields if you have a chance to go and you a sure having a memorable moment there.

While you taking a stroll gently touch the lavenders and it will emit oils and release the scent. In Provence and Digne, Lavender Festival takes place on the first week of August that known as a Lavender Day. During the festival, many Lavender produces are featured.

If you do not have an opportunity to visit Provence, do not fret. The nearest experience can be felt when you light up the lavender essential oil. Savour the scents and get a feel of what it would be like. At the same time, the scent from the lavender essential oil will cleanse your body and soul leaving you feeling balanced and rejuvenated.