The lavender plant is not only prized for its’ exquisite scent and beautiful blossoms, but it is also utilized as a potent essential oil that is well-known for its relaxing and soothing capabilities. You may have seen lavender-scented candles or made your own natural room spray with this essential oil, but using this herb as a scent booster is only one way to take advantage of its amazing benefits. It has been used for thousands of years as an antibacterial and antiseptic agent, plus it has been shown to have restorative effects on the mind as well as the body.
Lavender bath
Lavender has long been added to various health and beauty products. It has powerful abilities to relieve stress and calm your mind, helping you to relax and unwind after a stressful day. Add a few drops of this essential oil and a cup of Epsom salts to your next bath and soak in the relaxation.
Lavender tea
Combine equal parts dried mint and lavender leaves in a mug and pour boiling water over the herbs. Let steep for 5 minutes then strain with a tea strainer. Sweeten with honey if desired. Drinking this tea before bed can help prevent insomnia and improve the quality of your sleep.
Laundry detergent
There are hundreds of toxic chemicals suspended in your laundry detergent that all come into direct contact with your body when you wear those “fresh out of the dryer clothes.” Switch to making your own laundry soap for a healthier and more affordable option. Your body and wallet will thank you!
This lavender detergent will infuse your clothes with a delightful smell. Plus, this herb has anti-fungal properties that will help disinfect your dirty laundry.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups borax
- 4 cups washing soda
- 2 cups baking soda
- 2 bars Castille soap, grated
- 20 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients except essential oil in food processor. Mix well until it forms a smooth, fine powder.
- Wisk in essential oil and enjoy!
- Store in an airtight container
- Use 1-2 Tbsp per load
Pimple treatment
Though tea tree oil is often crowned as the queen of pimple treatment, lavender oil accomplishes the same purpose without drying out your face as much. It is a gentler alternative and generally doesn’t sting like tee tree or eucalyptus, but still possesses potent antibacterial properties. Mix a few drops in a small amount of coconut oil and dab on your face as a spot treatment for developing pimples.
Lavender marinade
Add a few tablespoons of fresh lavender to beef or chicken marinade for a slightly sweet and floral flavor addition to your savory meat.
Moth deterrent
Whether you have an abidance of clothes and store them away in an attic, or seem to have reoccurring problems with your clothes being eaten by moths, lavender can help deter these pesky insects. Try adding sachets of dried lavender to areas prone to moths to prevent holes and other damage.
Lavender sugar
Layer fresh lavender blossoms with sugar in an airtight jar and seal tightly for a few weeks. After this time, your sugar will have a slight lavender flavor. This infused sugar is excellent for making delicious sweet bread and sugar cookies, while the lavender blossoms will add beautiful color to your baking creations. Remember to use raw, organic sugar.
Cold compress
Wet a washcloth and sprinkle it with a few drops of lavender essential oil. Place in a sealed bag in the fridge to chill for at least an hour. Remove from bag and place on your forehead or the back of your neck for relief from tension headaches or when you’re just feeling a little under the weather. Rinse and repeat!
Lavender diffuser
An essential oil diffuser is a worthy investment and is one of the safest and easiest ways to take advantage of essential oil health benefits. Simply place your diffuser in your bedroom, add water and a few drops of lavender oil, and you are well on your way to creating a rejuvenating, stress-free environment.
Don’t limit yourself to essential oils or store bought tea, you can try growing lavender in your home or garden today. The effort will surely seem worth it as you begin to harvest fresh lavender and utilize this powerful herb in every area of your home.
-Susan Patterson