Lavender - The herb

Origin

The word 'lavender' is believed to be from the latin word 'lavere' meaning 'to wash'. The Romans were thought to use lavender when bathing.

Horticulture Summary

Lavender is a herb with many branches which grows to around 60cm long. The leaves are grey-green and narrow.

The genus of Lavender can be divided into six sub sections . These are called Lavandula, (most well known - English lavender slender flower spikes), Stoechas (Australia - fatter flowers spikes with petal-like bracts), Pterostoechas (pinnately divided leaves), Dentata(Mediterranean), Subnuda(Arabian) Chaetostachys (India). There are further sub groups and hybrids.

With at least 28 species in total, lavender is believed to be native in the Mediterranean but it flourishes in many parts of the globe.

Lavender Usage

Laveandula angustifolia, lavandula officinalis are used in soap and shampoos. These two varieties have a strong and pleasant scent.

In Hampshire, lavender is grown commercially. It takes 3 years for lavender plants to mature. The life cycle is up to 12 years.

Folgate lavender has a medium aroma which produces a top quality English lavender oil. Maillette (originally from France) has a stronger perfume. Imperial Gem & Gosso lavender have vibrant colour and are used for dried production and bunching.

There are plenty of anecdotes about lavenders uses, eg improving libido.

Science of Lavender

The University of Maryland suggests there is scientific evidence demonstrating that lavender improves sleep quality, promotes relaxation and lifts mood in people suffering from sleep disorders. Other reports say that a massage with lavender oil (and other essential oils) may reduce anxiety, increase mental capacity and promote deep sleep. Lavender flowers have also been approved in Germany as a tea for insomniacs, restless and nervous stomach irritations.

Aromatherapists also use lavender as a tonic in inhalation to treat headaches, nervous disorders and exhaustion.

There are no know scientific reports of lavender causing any harm or interacting with conventional medications. Lavender appears to be the perfectly natural sleep product.