Name
The genus name “Lavandula” comes from the latin verb “lavare” (to wash) because ancient romans used to scent washing waters and baths. The specific name “angustifolia” is Latin for “narrow leaf”. Previously, it was known as “Lavandula officinalis” meaning that it was the official medicinal lavender.
Also Known as:
common lavender
true lavender
narrow-leaved lavender
english lavender
Lavandula spica
Lavandula vera
Lavandula officinalis
Identification
Keys
bushy evergreen herb
square stalk
height: 1-2 m
opposite leaves
narrow leaves, 2-6 cm long, 4-6 mm broad
pinkish-purple (lavender color) flowers
2-lipped flowers
flowers grow on narrowly cylindrical spikes 2–8 cm long at the top of slender, leafless stems 10–30 cm long
strongly scented
Bloom Time
June-August
Habitat
prefers a sunny place and light, dry, well-drained soil
grows up to 1500 m
Look-alikes
You can confuse Lavandula angustifolia with other plants of the same genus Lavandula.
Medicine Uses
Parts Used
Flowers
Actions
carminative, diuretic, antispasmodic, nerve tonic, analgesic, stimulant, digestive, sedative, antimicrobial, antiseptic, diaphoretic, expectorant, antidepressant, antioxidant
Systems
Digestion
releases spasm and colic
relieves wind
combats bowel problems related to tension and anxiety
used for infections that cause vomiting and diarrhea
volatile oils active against bacteria and fungi
Mental and emotional
wonderful for anxiety and stress-related symptoms (headaches, migraines, neuralgia, palpitations, insomnia)
lifts the spirits
restores energy in tiredness and nervous exhaustion
Respiratory system
increases resistance to colds, coughs, chest infections, flu tonsillitis and laryngitis
clears phlegm
relieves asthma
Immune system
volatile oils are antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic
reduces fevers taken as hot tea
help to remove toxins via the skin and urine, taken as hot tea
Reproductive system
reduces pain after childbirth and speeds healing (used in baths)
Externally
antiseptic for inflammatory and infective skin problems such as eczema, acne, varicose ulcers and nappy rash
stimulates tissue repair
minimizes scar formation applying oil to burns, cuts, wounds, sores and ulcers
repels insects
relieves bites and stings
soothes pain of bruises, sprains, gout, arthritis and muscle tension
Harvesting
gathering lavender when the flowers are full in color and they start to open
cut flowers on a dry and sunny day. The dew needs to be off of the plants before you harvest to allow a quickly healing
tie bundles of lavender upside down in a dark dry area with good air circulation. When dry, place in a jar and store out of light
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