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Lavender
Checking into the historical background of this fragrant herb, one would find that the ancient Greeks called the lavender herb nardus, after the Syrian city of Naarda; thus, in some parts of the world, it is also referred to as nard. The value of this herb was appreciated in Roman times too as lavender flowers were sold for 100 denarii's per pound equaling about the same as a month's wage for a farm laborer. Used for scented Roman baths, Lavender was thought to restore the skin: a notion passed on to Southern Britain when the Roman Empire conquered it. Lavender grew in value during the height of the Plague with glove makers at Grasse scenting their leathers with lavender oil. This was based on the fact that the plague was transmitted by fleas and lavender is known to repel them.
Medicinal value of lavender
The lavenders Lavandula are a type of about 25-30 species of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae, native from the Mediterranean region south to tropical Africa and east to India. The most basic medicinal value of lavender is when the flowers are dried and sealed in pouches and placed among stored items of clothing to give a fresh fragrance and as a deterrent to moths. When grown commercially for extraction of lavender oil from the flowers, its value increases manifold as it is used as an antiseptic and for aromatherapy.
As a herb, lavender is also used either alone or as an ingredient of herbes de Provence. The flowers of cultivated lavender; Lavandula stoechas or Spanish lavender Lavender have been extensively used in herbalism. An infusion of lavender is believed to soothe and heal insect bites. Bunches of lavender are also said to ward off insects. When applied to the temples, lavender oil is said to soothe headaches and give relief faster than synthetic painkillers
Popular remedies using lavender
Lavender is frequently used as an aid to sleep and seeds and flowers of the herb are sealed in delicate sachets and placed in pillows. A common and easy to use remedy for relaxing tired muscles and give instant relief to mental fatigue is by preparing an infusion of three flower heads, added to a cup of boiling water to make a soothing bedtime drink. Lavender oil (or extract of Lavender) is being widely promoted by herbalists as a natural cure for healing acne when used diluted 1:10 with water, rosewater, or witch hazel. Users find that lavender used in the treatment of skin burns and inflammatory conditions is very effective too-as many Iranians swear by this traditional treatment. However, caution needs to be exercised as for some persons, lavender oil can also be a powerful allergen.
Storage tips
Lavender needs to be harvested on a sunny morning and long flower spikes cut as soon as the heads begin to color into small flowers. Tie these in bundles and hang them upside down in a cool, dry and dark place so that the essential oils can concentrate in the flower heads.