Lavender
Lavendula augustifolia

Author Julia Lawless in The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils states that this beautiful herb is generally regarded as very versatile for therapeutic use.

This herb is very easy to grow and beautiful to look at and use around the home. What we want to use are the buds.

I'm from a zone 2/3 and have successfully over wintered lavender on the south side of my garage. The easiest way to harvest it is to cut the stalks a few inches down and bundle a few at a time. Cut them when the buds are just about to open up. Hang the bundles upside down for a few weeks or until dry.

The dried stalks look lovely on their own lying across a shelf or vanity table. Or instead, strip the buds off the stalks and they're ready to go in remedies.

For centuries the buds have been used as an antiseptic and in baths. It's genus name comes from the latin word lavare which means "to wash". Obviously its modern use in bath products is not much different than years ago.

The dried herb is wonderful to use for anxiety and insomnia.

Not only does it look pretty, it also has a relaxing, sedative effect. The German Commission E approved the its for restlessness or insomnia and nervous stomach irritations.

The dried buds can be used in a sachet. Or why not make an Herbal Sleep Pillow?

Headaches also benefit from the use of this herb. In these cases they can be used in baths or just simply rubbing the essential oil directly on the temples or neck.

Antiseptic (fancy word for saying it cleans), antimicrobial (fancy word for saying it kills germs) and vulnerary (fancy word for saying it helps heal wounds) properties make it very useful in Skin care preparations.

Acne eczema, cuts, sores, inflammations, topical burns and sunburn can all benefit from the dried buds or its essential oil in it.

If you have a little space in your garden or in a pot , think of putting in this lovely plant. It will thank you and give back to you again and again.