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Lavender
Associated to Place: articles -- by * Moss Dubhdara Niall (64 Articles), Social Article


Lavender (Lavandula vera) came to us from the mountains around the western edge of the Mediterranean. Today it is cultivated throughout Europe, America and even in Australia, mainly for its fragrance and secondly as a medicine. Lavender was used by the ancient Romans to scent their baths, giving its name which is taken from the Latin "lavare", to wash. It is a favorite flower of bees and consequently a good source of honey. It wasn't cultivated in England until 1568 but quickly became very popular.

A low-growing, shrubby plant, lavender reaches a height of about three feet tall, producing spikes of purple flowers throughout the summer.

Although it has aromatic, carminative and nervine properties, it is rarely used internally today. The essential oil is widely used in aromatherapy for calming the nerves and as a remedy for depression, faintness, shakiness or spasms. It can be applied to sores, burns, scalds, bruises, bites, and used as an antiseptic. Sachets of the flowers and leaves are kept in closets and drawers for a pleasant scent as well as to repel insects.

In the garden: Lavender grows best with full sun in light soil that has excellent drainage. Plants should be planted about 12 inches apart. It is usually grown from cuttings or root division because seeds are difficult to germinate. Harvest the flowers early in day but after the dew has dried. To keep the plants going strong year after year, prune them annually right after they bloom.

Precautions: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid lavender. Do not apply the oil to open wounds.

References:
A Modern Herbal by Mrs. M Grieve
www.mountainvalleygrowers.com/lavendercareandtips.htm
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Posted Jan 29, 2008 - 20:07 , Last Edited: Jan 30, 2008 - 11:23











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