Lavender Uses

Uses of Lavender

Lavender has been used for centuries both medicinally and in food. It appears to have made its debut commercially in Washington State in 1928 in Bothell. There are many books available about lavender and we have several we enjoy, but the one I like best for identification, growing tips and uses, is “The Genus Lavandula,” by Tim Upson and Susyn Andrews. This book is expensive, but for the serious grower, I consider it a must.

Seasoning or herb flavor	Antiseptic
Relief for headaches	Lavender flower wine once used as a liver remedy
Vermin, moth and pest repellent	For colic and indigestion
Worm remedy for children	Lavender flavored Liqueur
Infusion for use for nervous Exhaustion or during labor	Wreathes
Bites and stings	Hair rinse
Sunburn soother	Lavender wands
Tension reliever	Dryer bags
Bath scent	Wedding toss (smells better than rice and is softer)
Sachets , Pillows	Potpourri
Scented candles	Essential oil

I don’t know of any other plant that provides such a wide variety of uses. We couldn’t wait to plant our yard with lavender just because it is so beautiful.

Other sources of information you might enjoy include: “Growing and Using Lavender,” by Patti Barrett, and “Lavender, How to Grow and Use the Fragrant Herb,” by Ellen Spector Platt. There are many others as well, but these are two small books with a great deal of useful information.

If you wish to grow lavender there are three main things to remember; good drainage, lots of sun, and prune. It is truly easy and these herbs will provide you with years of color, scent and product for your own crafting or bouquets.