Lavender (Lavendula spp.)
Parts used: Flowers
Benefits: Lavender, oh lavender, how I love thee! If I could only use one herb for the rest of my life (I know, that’s a terrible thought), I would choose lavender because of it’s so versatile, both medicinally and culinary-wise. Lavender is the queen of nerve tonics, allowing you to respond to stressors of life in a less stressful way. It helps with irritability, restlessness, depression; calms anger and agitation; and invokes an uplifted feeling of well-being. It’s even useful for headaches and migraines! Lavender has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and astringent properties as well. Therefore it makes an excellent topical healer for skin conditions such as athlete’s foot, rashes, eczema, and psoriasis. Soak in a lavender bath when you are mentally or physically worn out or have aches & pains. Lavender is effective in nearly every form - tea, tinctures, oils, salves, vinegars, liniments, baths. Decide what works best for you!
Let’s not forget the versatility of lavender in the kitchen. Whip up lavender-infused oil and add it in your pesto, soups, stir-fries, sauces, and marinades. Steep lavender in vinegar and add it to drinks, dipping sauces, and salad dressings. Rub meats with lavender-rosemary salt or dazzle people with lavender lemonade! Seriously, go plant some lavender!
(via oxygensonata)
