Monday, December 26, 2011

Lavender Essential Oil: The Top Ten List of Healing Uses

The genus Lavandula comes from the Latin word lavare meaning "to wash," and L. angustifolia, known as true or common lavender, is the species used medicinally. Lavender essential oil is steam-distilled from fresh flowers and is mainly produced in Bulgaria and France. Be sure to use a reputable supplier when purchasing lavender essential oil as it is one of the most commonly adulterated essential oils. A genuine and authentic essential oil should always list the botanical name, the part of the plant used, the country of origin and the method of extraction. The synthetic scent of lavender from fragrance oil is not the same as a pure essential oil - there are no health benefits from synthetic fragrance oils!

When I refer to "neat" application, this means applying a drop of lavender essential oil directly on the skin. While this is generally recognized as safe, instances of sensitization have occurred. Furthermore, it is not recommended to use other essential oils in this fashion, with the exception of tea tree. When I talk about using lavender in a carrier oil, this means diluting a few drops of the essential oil in a base oil. Different oils can be used for different purposes, but with this article focusing on first aid remedies, extra virgin olive oil is a great and convenient choice. As there are approximately 600 drops in one ounce, use six to eighteen drops of pure lavender essential oil per ounce (by volume) of carrier oil for a one to three percent dilution.

Here we go, my top ten healing uses for lavender essential oil:

# 10 - Bruises

Lavender is great for bruises because it is anti-inflammatory and analgesic which aids in the healing process while decreasing pain. Using lavender in a carrier oil, gently massage into bruised area. For best results, dilute lavender in arnica-infused oil. Arnica contains sesquiterpene lactones and polysacharides that stimulate phagocytosis, thus cleaning up debris and reducing healing time. Please note that arnica should not be applied to broken skin.

# 9 - Muscle Aches and Menstrual Cramps

Massage lavender diluted in a carrier oil (arnica-infused oil for additional relief) into painful area or, my favorite, add a few drops of lavender essential oil to a warm Epsom salt bath for a deep muscle soak.

# 8 - Bug Bites and Bee Stings

Lavender's antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties make it a great choice for bites and stings as it reduces infection, swelling, and itching. To use, simply apply one drop of lavender essential oil neat to affected area.

# 7 - Earaches

There are two effective ways to ease the pain of an earache with lavender. The first is to gently massage lavender in a carrier oil into the outer ear and back of the ear. The second method is to put a drop of lavender on a cotton ball and gently place it on the outer ear. Never put it directly in the ear canal.

# 6 - Depression

Lavender is a restorative herb and is classified as a nervine, meaning that it has a calming effect on the mind and body. It works in powerful ways to bring feelings of comfort and peace and also helps with fatigue. Suggestions include inhaling lavender essential oil directly from a vial, spritzing your room with lavender diluted in distilled water, and infusing your space with lavender from a candle or incense. The options are endless.

# 5 - Headaches

Lavender's sedative effects make it a great remedy for headaches, especially when the headaches are caused by stress. Massage a drop of lavender diluted in a carrier oil into the temples and back of the neck, followed by a few deep, relaxing breaths of lavender essential oil directly from a vial. Add peppermint essential oil to the mix for even better headache relief.

# 4 - Sanitizer

Lavender was used in hospitals during World War I to disinfect floors and walls. Use lavender essential oil in a soap to cleanse, in water and vinegar for household cleaning, or try it in a base of grain alcohol as a hand sanitizer.

# 3 - Insomnia

Lavender works particularly well if insomnia is due to a restless and anxious mind. Before bed, spray your pillow and face with lavender diluted in distilled water, take a few deep breaths, inhaling lavender directly from the vial or from a drop on a tissue, or place dried lavender buds in a sachet in your pillow case.

# 2 - Burns and Sunburns

It was the French chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, who is famously cited for treating his severe burns and resulting infection with lavender essential oil. Apply a drop of lavender essential oil neat to minor burns. For sunburns, spray your body with lavender diluted in distilled water. Please seek medical attention for severe burns.

...And my number one healing use for lavender - Stress

lavender has balancing and harmonizing effects on the autonomic nervous system. In panic attack situations, inhale lavender essential oil directly from the vial and seek medical attention if necessary. For general stress and anxiety, spritz your face and room with lavender diluted in distilled water, take a relaxing bath with a few drops of lavender diluted in sea salt, or enjoy a massage using lavender-infused oil.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Lavender Essential Oil to the Rescue

Whenever I travel I always take an "emergency kit" of essential oils with me. One of the essential oils I find most useful to have on hand is lavender. Thinking back to the times away from home when I've had to use it, many incidents come to mind. The most dramatic was the time in Florida when my husband was checking under the hood of the car and the radiator cap exploded into his face, hitting him on the forehead. The water bubbled up and his entire upper body was scorched.

I immediately doused him with undiluted lavender oil, then applied aloe vera gel, which I also had with me. I kept reapplying the lavender until the soreness subsided and also gave him a couple of Aspirins for the shock. Luckily, we had access to a swimming pool close by, and got there as soon as we could.

My husband stayed neck deep in the pool for about twenty minutes. When he came out, there wasn't a mark on his body except for where the radiator cap had struck his forehead. Our friends who witnessed this said it was a miracle - they had never seen burns heal like this.

One time when I was telling this story, a lady told me that this same type of accident had happened to her husband and he had to spend time in the hospital with third degree burns. Thank goodness for lavender!

Another time lavender came to my rescue was when my son picked me up at the Vancouver airport, saying we'd have to hurry to get to an emergency clinic, as he had just been stung by a bee. He has a history of violent allergic reactions to bee stings; each one getting a little worse. His hand was already swollen to twice its normal size and the swelling was rapidly moving up his arm. Fortunately I was wearing a pendant that contained lavender and I immediately applied it to his bite, stopping the swelling and eliminating the rush. We didn't go to the clinic.

Over the years I have used lavender on numerous people who have had bad reactions to insect bites. It nearly always helps. It is also great for taking the itch out of mosquito bites.

Lavender is also one of my standbys for treating headaches. Just a drop rubbed into the temples and another under the hairline at the back of the neck will usually do the trick.

Monday, December 5, 2011

How Growing an Aromatic Lavender Hedge Can Be Good for You and Your Garden

There are very good reasons why growing lavender has been so popular with generations of gardeners and farmers. Perhaps the most important reason is that it has a beautiful, fragrant smell. When it flowers we are all immediately reminded of summer, and in many places around the world flowering lavender is cause for celebration. But as well as being admired for its beauty it also has a long history as a healing and restorative plant.

Lavender originates from the mountainous zones of the Mediterranean, but it now flourishes throughout southern Europe, Australia, and the United States. Like another well-known herb, rosemary, it's a heavily branched short shrub that grows to a height of between 2 and 3 feet. For this reason it's an excellent herb for growing as an aromatic garden hedge. In this article I'll explain how you can grow a lavender hedge and how to put its flowers to use in many areas around your home.

To help you understand how easy and straightforward it is to grow a lavender hedge I have structured my article as six short paragraphs:

- Where to plant your lavender hedge
- What sort of lavender to plant
- Buying or growing your lavender?
- How to plant your lavender hedge
- Looking after your lavender
- Putting your lavender to healthy uses

Where to Plant Your lavender hedge

When you are looking for a site to plant your lavender hedge, bear in mind that lavender loves a sunny location and light, dry, well drained alkaline (ph 7.5 to 8) soil. If you plant lavender in moist and shady conditions it won't flourish and becomes prone to fungus.

When you choose a site for your hedge also bear in mind that lavender is excellent at repelling insects (with the exception of bees and butterflies which it attracts). This makes it a good companion plant for orchards and other areas of your garden where insects such as flies and mosquitoes are a nuisance.

What Sort of lavender to Plant

Don't just buy the first lavender you see in your garden center or shop. There are many types of lavender plants available, but to keep things simple I'll introduce you to just two of them, both of which are suitable for growing a lavender hedge.

Lavandula stoechas (commonly called French lavender) has short, fat spikes of dark purple flowers topped with butterfly wing bracts (small leaves attached to a flower)

Lavendula augustifolia (commonly called English lavender) which has small purple flowers.

French lavender will grow a little taller than English lavender (up to 3ft instead of 2ft), but English lavender has a stronger smell which is good if you intend to harvest the flowers to make potpourri and aromatic oils.

Buying or Growing Your lavender

I don't recommend trying to grow your lavender from seed because seeds frequently don't produce plants that are true to type. Either buy small plants that are ready for transplanting or take your own cuttings from another plant. If you decide to take cuttings, take 2 inch stems from the tips of the lavender in mid to late summer. Trim off the upper and lower leaves of these stems and then plant them in a mixture of 2/3 course sand and 1/3 peat moss. Keep the soil on the dry side until the roots have formed and shoots appear, and then replant the young plants in pots ready for planting out.

How to Plant Your lavender hedge

Plant your lavender hedge in either the spring or the fall. Make a trench about 16 inches deep and 18 inches wide, and fill this up with a mix of potting compost and coarse sand. Plant your young lavender plants about 2 feet apart (which will to allow for growth). If you plant in the spring, remove any blooms to force the energy into root growth. If you plant in the fall all the plant's energy will be directed into growing its roots.

Looking After Your lavender

Keep your plants watered, even during the winter, although in the winter months the plants are largely dormant, and you'll see no new growth until mid-May. Feed your lavender plants with a suitable fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer.

Lavender tends to get woody and needs to be maintained by pruning. Do this in March/Early April before new shoots have formed and at the end of the season when flowering has finished. It's a good idea to shape your lavender hedge. I prune mine to create a circular bush in the spring, and aim to take off about 1/3 of its height when I carry out a major prune at the end of the summer.

Pruning your lavender plants at the beginning and end of the season will encourage healthy growth and lots of flowers. I also dry my pruned cuttings and use them as kindling wood during the winter. They release a wonderful scent as they burn.

You will also probably want to cut lavender flowers during the growing season to use in the home in some of the ways I have described in the final part of my article. Flowers can be cut from the early spring before they open and during the summer.

Although lavender is a perennial herb your hedge will start to get quite woody after a few years depending on growing conditions. I recommend that when the hedge begins to look a bit ragged you take lots of cuttings and replant it either at the end of the season or in the spring.

Putting Your lavender to Healthy Uses

Whilst growing lavender in your garden will bring endless pleasure, it also has many other uses:

Oil of lavender:
Make this by immersing your lavender flowers in neutral oil. The aromatic oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact it was used in hospitals during WWI to disinfect floors and walls. This oil can also be used as a fragrance for bath products.

Dried lavender flowers:
These are used to perfume linen. The dried flowers have a powerful, aromatic odor which repels moths, flies and mosquitoes

Culinary lavender:
Use fresh or dried flowers to flavor sugars jellies, ice-cream and cheeses. you can also crystallize flowers and use as decorations on cakes.

In conclusion I hope I have been able to show you that creating a lavender hedge isn't difficult. If you follow the instructions I have provided you will end up with a healthy, strong, attractive hedge. It might take a couple of years to really establish itself, but whilst this is happening you can harvest and preserve the flowers so you can enjoy the results of your hard work throughout the winter months.

This article by Adam Gilpin has been produced to encourage more people to create their own herb gardens and discover the 100's of different ways in which herbs such as lavender can be used in the garden and around the house.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Lavender Bridesmaid Dresses Bring Natural And Romantic Flavor To Your Wedding

Because of the great convenience on most matters in modern people' s life, lots of fashion-conscious persons have been accustomed to seeing various trends go in and out from the fashion clothing, accessories and footwear industry in a fast pace. Certainly, people living in the present era are lucky. They can follow the vogue mainstream without spending a small fortune. They can look as elegant as their favorite celebrities without shopping around in many malls. Instead of obeying fixed fashion rules, modern people tend to break lousy clichés and open new paths on their fashion styles. It' s nothing strange to see a young girl charms the crowd by a uniquely appealing semblance. She may not spend a lot on her clothing and shoes. But allure oozing out from her entire appearance feels really irresistible for everybody who passes by her side. Of course, you can also show your best in a thrifty way. Just find the perfect item to accentuate your femininity please.

Nowadays, understated elegance becomes a hot theme embraced by both trend setters and followers. To enhance your glamour, exaggerating or lavish elegance has become a no-no in today' s period. You can also flatter a rich taste. But avoid twinkling colors or overdoing elegance please. If possible, try to add some natural and romantic touches to your appearance please. Certainly, there are so many chic articles for personal adornment that will well cater to this kind of beauty appreciation. Let' s just take choosing a wedding dress as an example this time.

Different with usual fashion clothing, wedding dresses carry special and memorable meaning for every girl. In most cases, brides-to-be are prone to set a big budget on their wedding gowns to make sure they will seem incredibly elegant on the most important day throughout their life. Yes, this is rather understandable. So many celebrities show us extremely luxurious wedding gowns that usually cost thousands of dollars or even one billion. They seem incredibly ornate and absolutely queens on their nuptials. However, how many people have the economic capability to afford the highest-end bridal dresses on earth? I' m afraid the amount will not be large. Thus, come back to reality please. Instead of breaking the wallet to buy an expensive wedding dress, you can really express your personality and ideally adorn your figure by a moderately gorgeous wedding gown, which usually costs you much less if you buy it online. At present, off the shoulder and empire waist wedding dresses are definitely fashion darlings. White continues to be impressive. But to accentuate the natural and romantic sense on a spring wedding, lavender becomes hot recently. Both wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses are made to be lavender, seeming chic, dolce and graceful. If you are conscious enough about signals released from the fashion clothing industry, you will know lavender is always a popular color on various exquisite dresses. Less profane than purple, its freshness and quietness have created eye-catching scenes on the solemn date for several times.

Friday, October 21, 2011

Beijing Lavender Garden: The Most Hot Tourist Destination In This Hot Summer

love

If you have no chance to get to Provence of France, the “Zihaixiangdi Art garden” in Miyun, Beijing is a good alternative.

Lavender

The viewing time of the lavender flowers is longer than that of Provence, lasting from May to November.

Romance

However, in July and August the purple flowers are at their most beautiful.

Over 200 species of precious vanilla flowers are planted in the art garden, including 20 species of lavender flowers.

relaxing

The mixed aroma attracts visitors to the gate of the garden. But lavender catches the eye as well as arresting the other senses. Thousands of square kilometers of purple flowers waving in the wind, sending forth a waft of their sweet fragrance.

beautiful house

It could be the most romantic thing, to see an endless purple blanket blooming in front of you.
European garden

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

The Natural Muscle Relaxant: Lavender

If there is a specific cause for muscle pain such as Arthritis or disc problems, there are also a number of specific remedies that can help deal with these ailments. But for pain relief, most people seek prescription pharmaceutical medication, which can have bad side effects and can even cause allergies, aside from the fact that it can be damaging to our bodies. If one is looking for a muscle pain relief but is worried about drug interactions and its adverse effects, then they may consider using natural muscle relaxants.

For general muscle relaxation, a massage using two teaspoons of almond or olive oil mixed with 3 drops each of essential oils of lavender, a natural muscle relaxant can help bring relief. lavender is as old as humankind. Already in use by different civilizations for more than 2,500 years, this beautifully-scented herb has been used in the following ways such as perfume, disinfectant, deodorant, aphrodisiac, and insect repellent.

Lavender, the bushy perennial with the refreshing and delightful scent, has a long history of medicinal uses. It is calming and has an uplifting influence. Warm lavender tea applied as a compress can relieve a headache. In the bath water, lavender oil relaxes one, and gets rid of tension, thereby making one feel better.

Lavender was also used in ancient times to tame lions and tigers. Perhaps the ancient people intuitively knew what researchers are finding out about lavender. Researchers have proven that it calms anxiety and provides natural stress relief. lavender has also a long list of medicinal properties, making it a natural health superstar. These days, lavender is enjoying renewed popularity as an alternative natural muscle relaxant.
lavender was also used in earlier days as a condiment and for flavoring dishes to comfort the stomach. It has aromatic, carminative, and nervine properties. Though largely used in perfumery, it is now not much employed internally, except as a flavoring agent, occurring occasionally in pharmacy to cover disagreeable odors in ointments and other compounds.

Red lavender lozenges are employed both as a mild stimulant. More than just lozenges, the red lavender product is also a favorite after-dinner treat because of its pleasant taste. The essential oil, or the spirit of lavender made from it, proves admirably restorative and tonic against faintness, palpitations of a nervous sort, weak giddiness, spasms, and colic. It is agreeable to the taste and smell, provokes appetite, raises the spirits and dispels flatulence. The dose is from 1 to 4 drops on sugar or in a spoonful or two of milk.

A few drops of the essence of lavender in a hot foot bath is often prescribed as a means of effectively relieving fatigue. If applied outwardly, it relieves toothache, neuralgia, sprains, and rheumatism. In hysteria, palsy and similar disorders of debility and lack of nerve power, lavender will act as a powerful stimulant.

Before you reach for over the counter drugs for your next muscle relaxant, why not do what ancient Egyptians did and look to nature first. After all, if lavender could tame tigers, imagine what it could do for Monday mornings at the office? Definitely, lavender, is the ultimate natural muscle relaxant.

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Why Lavender Lavatory Accessories Are Thus Relaxing

During this highly worrying and quick paced planet that we tend to live in nowadays, it is absolutely essential to have a peaceful haven of harmony and relaxation. The toilet, being a room that we have a tendency to all use each single day, is a perfect place to strive and produce an atmosphere of calm. As a result of of the strain of the surface world, and the soothing, relaxing result of hot water and hot bathing, many individuals these days use the bathroom for a ton a lot of than simply its primary function. Typically folks return home stressed and with apprehension, and use the bathroom to unwind.

Lavender rest room accessories are perfect for this reason.

Whilst electing the possible type and style of the decorations to use in the toilet, you would like to require due care and consideration in defining exactly what your likeslikes are. All of the members of the family must clearly feel snug in the environment that prevail. Build positive that you take the time to determine exactly that amount in history you would like the décor to be from. Any seller of bathroom accessories can want to show a healthy alternative of wares if they're to survive in the fashionable competitive world. Both historic styles from previous eras and modern designs from today can be featured.

The one factor that you need to be especially aware of when selecting how to brighten and furnish your toilet is to form certain you get the main, huge purchases right. This can be not solely because of the intense expense concerned in creating a slip-up at this stage, however also as a result of of the work concerned in physically making the changes. With items of a smaller size, and,price, there's nearly the identical worry. It is never wise, however, to throw cash away, thus a little bit of careful thought given at this stage however makes sense. If you think that that lavender bathroom accessories are for you, then make positive you think that it through first.

Lavender lavatory accessories are readily accessible in searching malls, and on the internet. These are mainly things of a lesser nature, like a soap dispenser, hand crafted and hand painted, which would make a terribly aesthetic addition to any bathroom. Many sorts of lavender bath accessories are available, with one complete assortment of a bathtub set comprising of lavender tub soap, bathtub oil, body lotion, and tub and shower cream. lavender is meant to have the good thing about being a natural antiseptic, and is also imagined to be have calming properties. It's even been steered as having some benefit in the treatment of headaches.

When you are trying to find the simplest potential supply of lavender bathroom accessories, the simplest place to appear is through an internet search. There are currently so several retailers with on-line stores, that the mad scramble for business has meant that costs on the internet are often not up to those in traditional retail stores. Usually lower still are the prices on the web auction sites, where you find vendors selling at set costs furthermore as the bidding auctions. The web is the simplest place to search out bargains on lavender toilet accessories.

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Bathroom Accessories In Lavender

Bathroom accessories can make or break a bathroom's decor. Bathroom accessories come in many styles. Bathroom accessories come in many colors. The careful shopper will take time to choose both the right style and the right color.

Bathroom accessories in lavender are an example. Lavender bathroom accessories can be had in a variety of styles and a variety of hues. You can find bathroom accessories in dainty lavender flowers on pristine white ceramic. You can find bathroom accessories in lavender wicker with chrome, brass, or bronze bases.

As you seek out bathroom accessories in lavender, you will want to ask yourself several questions. These will help you zero in on what you really want before you begin shopping.

1. Color: There are many shades of lavender. Visit a paint store and find the shade you wish to feature. Are you looking for lavender blue or lavender green? You may remember the old lullaby lyrics that begin with the words, "lavender's blue, dilly dilly, lavender's green. When you are king, dilly dilly, I shall be queen." You may want to copy out the lyrics and frame them for your bathroom wall. Set a theme with them, and combine bathroom accessories in lavender blues and lavender greens.

2. Style: Do you want bathroom accessories in lavender flowers, or in abstract swirls? Do you prefer simple, clean lines, or more ornate designs? Do you enjoy retro purple lavender or watery, pearl lavender?

Think about the color of your walls and floor before you make decisions on your bathroom accessories. Remember the secret to ideal color combinations: the 60-30-10 rule. Use about 60 percent of one dominant color in your bath decor. Use 30 percent of a lesser color. Use only 10 percent of your accent color.

In this case, lavender bathroom accessories will probably comprise your ten percent of accent color. The lavender should go well with the dominant and lesser colors on walls, floors, and fixtures.

Bathroom Accessories in Lavender Flowers

If you prefer flowers, you might want to look for lavender/purple flowers such as the following on bathroom accessories.

1. Lavender itself – flowers from the herb
2. Lavender iris
3. Lavender and yellow pansies
4. Lavender wisteria
5. Lavender lupine

Other Bathroom Accessories in Lavender

Lavender bathroom accessories are available in more than just flowers.

Dragonflies are often depicted in lavender on shower curtains, toothbrush holders, soap dishes, dispensers, and other bathroom accessories.

Whimsical cherubs in lavender, gold, and white are featured in some bathroom accessories. In others, these colors appear on the gossamer gowns and wings of woodland fairies.

Plain lavender bathroom accessories are readily available. The color and style are simple and cooling. They blend well with most bath decors.

Towels and rugs in lavender should match or closely complement the hues used in your other bathroom accessories.

Budget bathroom accessories in lavender

Your budget will go further if you shop garage sales and thrift stores for bathroom accessories in lavender shades. You might want to be creative by selecting objects such as a lavender tumbler or simple vase for a toothbrush holder. Add a lavender dessert dish to hold your soap.

Helpful Tip

When using bathroom accessories in lavender, include a lovely bouquet of dried lavender. Its cool color and relaxing aroma can quickly turn your bath into a luxury retreat.

Saturday, August 6, 2011

How to Make Lavender Oil Lotion for Strengthening Skin

Dry, cracked and chapped skin is a painful issue that many people struggle with. Whether it is caused by the dry, cold, blustery, winter weather or frequently washing with soaps, the skin needs support and attention to stay strong and healthy. But what is the best way to strengthen the skin without clogging it up with toxins? Many lotions on the market are filled with chemicals that are not desirable to have absorbed into the body. A simple recipe for lavender oil lotion can be a natural and economical solution.

Basic Lavender Oil Lotion Recipe

Only two ingredients are needed: pure therapeutic grade lavender essential oil and any pure vegetable oil. Simply put a few drops of the pure vegetable oil in the palm of your hand. Then add a single drop of lavender essential oil. Mix these two ingredients together with a finger. Finally, apply topically to the stressed skin.

Pre-mixed Recipe

For a convenient way to carry your lavender oil lotion with you all day, pre-mix it in a small glass bottle. Almost fill a one or two ounce glass bottle with the pure vegetable oil. Then add 15-20 drops of lavender essential oil. Shake bottle to mix thoroughly. Carry in your pocket, purse or briefcase and apply as needed throughout the day.

Lavender Oil Healing Properties

Lavender essential oil has many healing properties that will help nourish the skin. It has antiseptic properties which will help prevent infection in damaged skin. It can be used to support many skin conditions such as sunburn, rashes, dryness, cuts, burns, and insect bites. It also helps with cell renewal and minimizes scarring as the skin repairs.

The pure vegetable oil will act as a moisturizer for the skin as it rebuilds. It also acts as a carrier for the lavender essential oil to spread more evenly when applied. Some quality vegetable oils to be used are extra-virgin olive oil, sweet almond oil, grape seed oil and macadamia oil. There are also some good vegetable oil blends on the market for therapeutic uses. The one I prefer is called V-6 Enhanced Vegetable oil Complex.

When using any essential oil, including lavender, for health and healing purposes, be certain it is a pure therapeutic grade oil. Pure oils should be carefully steam distilled from organically grown plant material. oils that are synthetic or diluted with other substances may still smell nice, but they won't have the same healing properties as pure therapeutic grade essential oils.

Combining the healing properties of lavender essential oil with pure vegetable oil is a simple and economical way to support your skin as it strengthens and heals. Enjoy the benefits of using natural, pure ingredients in your home mixed lavender oil lotion.

Saturday, July 16, 2011

The Lure of Lovely Lavender

Those fortunate enough to have walked in a field of lavender and inhaled the heady aroma emanating from the purple waves of the flowering plants will most likely never forget the experience. It could be the beginning of a passionate love affair with this wonderful herb. Spring is the ideal time to plant lavender, and you don't need fields of this magical herb to enjoy it. Add a few plants to your herb garden; plant lavender beneath your rose bushes to hide the rose's scraggly legs; put lavender in a window box near the entrance to your home so all who enter can enjoy the heavenly fragrance, or simply pot up several lavenders and place them on your patio or in your kitchen on a south-facing window sill. You'll soon become captivated by the lure of lovely lavender and enjoy its many uses.

Growing Lavender
lavender is a perennial herb that, given the right conditions, can flourish and produce flowers for a decade. In most areas of the US, lavender produces dozens of fragrant flowers on a single plant in early summer. A second, less abundant flowering may occur in the fall. There are many varieties of lavender available today. Two popular varieties that may be used for culinary purposes as well as for craft-making are English lavender (Lavandula agustifolia officinalis) and Provence (L. x intermedia). These should be planted directly in the garden, as lavender has deep, spreading roots and will soon become root-bound when confined to pots. The more compact varieties of 'Munstead' and 'Hidcote' can be grown successfully in deep, wide pots.

Two very important needs of lavender should be taken into consideration when selecting a planting site: sunshine and drainage. Lavender thrives in full sun; eight hours a day will make it happy. Lavender must have good drainage; it does not like wet roots. Plant it on a gentle slope or in a raised bed in a south-facing, full-sun location. The soil must be loose-not compacted-and neutral to alkaline (6.0 to 8.0). Add lime if your soil is too acidic. If you don't have a sandy loam, add a little sand (not builder's sand) and small gravel to help with the drainage. When planting, add bone meal; afterward, no fertilizer is needed.

Other needs to consider are air circulation and mulch. Space your plants so that when they are grown and flowering their branches will not touch; they need plenty of air around them, especially in humid climates. After the plant has reached a good size, remove a few branches from the interior to open it up. Don't use bark or pine straw for mulch; sand or pea gravel is best. They will reflect heat and light up to the plant.

Lavender plants are fairly drought resistant after they are mature and well established. However, during the first year, they need to be watered regularly, especially during the hottest summer days. Don't forget to keep watering into the fall if you encounter a dry spell.

Pruning Lavender
Pruning lavender is not an option-it is necessary to ensure a good production of flowers and to keep the plant from falling open in the middle. Although lavender plants are pruned regularly by harvesting the flowers, to keep them well-shaped and to encourage new growth, prune lightly in early spring and cut back aggressively in late fall. Leave approximately 1″ of green foliage on plant when fall pruning.

Harvesting and Drying Lavender
Timing is important when cutting lavender. When your lavender has blossomed, the flowers can be picked for many uses. For a fresh bouquet, pick the blossoms when half of the flowers on the blossom head have opened. If you are picking to dry the bundle for culinary uses, crafting or making a sachet, pick them when the bottom three-quarters of the blossoms are open. Check each plant and cut them daily because not every stem is ready to be cut at the same time.

Wait until all dew has dried from the plants in early morning before cutting. Cut the stems down near the base of the plant. If you're going to dry the lavender, remove all of the leaves from the stem, leaving the bare stem on the bottom and the flowers on top. Bundle a handful of stems together and secure with a rubber band or twine, about an inch from the bottom. Hang the stems upside down in a dark, dry place with plenty of air circulation. A small oscillating fan will help to move the air around the hanging stems. Darkness preserves the color of the flower heads. Put a clean cloth underneath to catch any buds that may fall.

The lavender flowers will be dry in about 8 to 10 days. They may now be used for making crafts, in potpourri, or for culinary uses. Many recipes using lavender can be found in herb cookbooks or by entering "cooking with lavender" on internet search engines.

To preserve your dried lavender for cooking purposes, separate the buds from the stems, rub the flower heads gently between your hands over a clean cloth or plate. To remove any dried leaves from the flowers, sift them through a sieve. Store your culinary lavender buds in a dark-colored glass container out of light. The buds will maintain their flavor for several years and enliven many of your food dishes with a fresh, enticing hint of lavender. By grinding lavender buds in a spice grinder when you're ready to add them to a recipe, you'll release more essential oil, which will increase the lavender flavor in the dish.

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Lavender Wedding Theme - The Best Kept Secret

If you want your wedding to be one of a kind, absolutely distinctive and unique, take heart. One of the most wonderful things about modern day wedding ceremonies and the receptions that follow is that the bride and groom can customize virtually every aspect of the day to reflect their personality as a couple. As you go through the ceremony and reception in your mind, do not overlook the power that the color of your wedding theme will have. In a very real sense, it will set and enhance whatever mood you are seeking to create. For someone as unique and special as you, why not consider lavender?

The woman who chooses lavender loves nature and is captivated by the delicate and the subtle. Not for her are traditional pink or even glowing pastels. Instead, she wants the multi-hued purples that make up lavender and are reminiscent of Easter and lilacs. These can be reflected in your bridal bouquet, which could be comprised of lavender flowers, white roses and even blooms of other complimentary colors. To accentuate your bouquet, your fiance could sport a lavender boutonniere.

Whether your vows are to be exchanged inside or outdoors, lavender will complement the beauty and solemnity of the occasion. This flower symbolizes caution and devotion, two traits particularly at the forefront on your wedding day. To show off the beauty of the flowers, you might decorate church pews or pillars in purple with sprigs of lavender as accents. Lavender would also be a terrific color for your party decorations, particularly if your post ceremony celebration is to be held outside. Just imagine how lovely each table would be if it displayed a centerpiece made up of lavender flowers and beautiful, fresh green boughs. All that is then required is simple white or ivory tablecloths and chair covers to complete the scene. At the seat of each guest you could place a fragrant lavender sachet, which will serve as an aromatic reminder of your special day for a long time to come.

As you might imagine, there are many options worth considering when it comes to planning a wedding with a lavender theme. Your bridesmaids dresses could be dyed in this hue. Perhaps you could even provide your bridal party with lavender themed gifts such as tanzanite necklaces or earrings. Even your wedding cake could mirror the theme by being covered in lavender colored icing flowers. Make the most of this special time to let your unique taste shine through. Think lavender!

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Can Lavender Bags Also Be Handbags?

If you are looking for a new handbag, a new bag to take to yoga class or you need an overnight bag for those three day long business trips, you should consider one of the new lavender bags that have recently hit the shelves. Lavender has long been known as a flower that has soothing properties, and the color invokes those same emotions. With lavender colored clothes hitting store shelves and becoming popular, it only makes sense that lavender bags would follow. The key to adding this type of accessory to your wardrobe, however, is to choose the perfect bag for you.

Any Size

The great thing about bags is that you can get any size you need if you know where to shop. The good news is that most manufacturers of lavender bags make any sized bag you need. If you need a tote bag to take to the grocery store each week, you can find that type of bag. If you need a laundry bag, a bag to take to class or a bag to take across country, you'll be covered. But once you have the size down, you must then choose your color and your style.

Color

You may be thinking, "But these bags are lavender. I already know what color they are." While it is true that these are the color of lavender, there are many shades the bags come in. You can find dark shades and lighter shades and every shade in between. You may find that you look better with dark colors than light, and so your choice would be clear. If you're not sure what color to choose, just go somewhere in the middle so that you get the best of both worlds. A neutral lavender color will have the benefit of setting off both light and dark colors, so bags like that will go with anything.

When you're carrying your books, unloading your groceries or putting on your makeup in the morning, you want to know that you're doing it in style with a new and stylish lavender bag.

Style

You next have to choose what style you want. The style will usually be associated with the fabric the bag is made out of. For instance a straw bag is going to have a style all its own, but the style could also involve the color and shape of the bag. If you aren't exactly sure what you want, just peruse through the various selections you find in the stores near your home and online.

With lavender bags being so hot right now, you will surely find many bags that will help you get the size, color and style you need to match what you're looking for. Whether it's for a night on the town or it's for a five day stay in Paris, your lavender bag will keep you feeling relaxed while it also keeps your belongings safe and secure. So get out there and start shopping.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Lavender, The Swiss Army Knife of Essential Oils

Lavender is one essential oils that should be in every home and first aid kit! Lavender is the most "universal" oil and is the Swiss army knife of essential oils. It is steam distilled from Lavandula angustifolia.

Lavender is one of the few essential oils that is safe to use neat or undiluted, on the skin, if it is therapeutic grade.

When in doubt, use Lavender. Lavender is good for all kinds of problems.

Personally, I have used Lavender for quite a long time to control my blood pressure by inhaling and applying to the heart reflex points and directly over the heart.

Lavender reduces inflammation, relieves burns, headaches, cuts, skin abrasions, analgesic, anti-fungal, calming and relaxing, anti-stress, anti-depression, insomnia (inhale), PMS and more.

Burns and Sunburn - Apply 1-3 drops on burn location to cool tissue and reduce inflammation. Apply 3-6 times daily or as needed.

Use Lavender to cleanse and sooth cuts or scrapes.

Reduce or minimize scar tissue by massaging it on or around affected areas.

Apply 2-3 drops Lavender to relieve itching and soothe skin.

To Calm and Relax- Lavender is well-known for its calming and sedative properties. Massage Lavender into the back of the neck or bottom of feet for relaxation. Add a few drops of Lavender to your bath water for a relaxing soak. Diffuse Lavender before bed to quiet the mind and prepare for sleep. Inhaling also works wonders. Lavender can also be used for insomnia.

For restless leg syndrome, apply to the bottoms of feet. Inhale deeply to get back to sleep if necessary. If you have insomnia, try rubbing some Lavender on your chest and put a couple drops on your tongue.

Headaches- lavender is good for headaches. Put a couple drops in your hand and then inhale. Apply a drop on your temples, the back of the neck across forehead or on location.

Mood Uplifting - Diffuse or put a couple drops in your hand and then inhale. Apply direct application. Lavender also helps PMS symptoms.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Essential Lavender - Always in the Mix

Mom, Tryssie said, sampling essential oils and offering her own unsolicited commentary, I know essential lavender oil is supposed to be calming and soothing and all, but it smells more like comatose. Tryssie's signature fragrance review line: "essential lavender smells like grandma and the bridge club." She does not intend the line as criticism, more like very precise and vivid reporting, and certainly delivered with proper homage to the queens of three-no-trump. For today's post-modern emerging woman, lavender probably does seem sadly twentieth century.

I explained, however, one need not make this oil the leading ingredient, but one really ought, always, to include it in the mix. Yes, even if we concede lavender evokes all things Victorian and quite a few things Eisenhower, we must acknowledge that lavender shared Victoria's secret-appear prim and innocent, but pack a potent wallop. Among the essential oils, lavender rivals all the best in medicinal and therapeutic applications and benefits. Even Wendell, our Wonder Dog, has experienced and benefitted from its soothing effects. essential oil beginners must learn that lavender, and its sister chamomile, calm and soothe everything. Experts act on the principle, if it needs calming and soothing, lavender and chamomile are there. In pillow sprays-essential lavender is essential. After-cleanse skincare-must have lavender in the mix. Unruly dry hair-lavender ranks number one as your go-to oil. Of course, lavender dominates the sachets in your drawer full of "intimates"; no one wants anxious and unruly drawers.

Essential lavender in "Complementary Medicine"

Naturopaths rely on essential oil in treatment of neurological disorders. Sounds serious, Tryssie volunteers, and I agree that essential lavender can serve as serious medicine. Relying on essential lavender for inhalation therapy, naturopaths use it to treat severe headaches-including migraines and they have found it works extremely well for treatment of the entire constellation of pre-menstrual symptoms. Aches and cramps abate, exhaustion and fatigue lift, and irritability softens to grudging tolerance. Although massage therapists confess lavender has only limited benefit, strictly speaking, for serious skin disorders, they insist on its value in promoting intimacy and the power of a healing touch. In other words, lavender has little topical-biochemical effect on eczema or acne, but healing massage promotes recovery from the inside out. Mothers, if your child suffers a serious skin disorder or you are battling measles and chicken pox, healing massage promotes rapid recovery by enhancing children's sense of love, affection, and safety.

Rigorous Clinical Studies of Essential lavender

The University of Maryland, the nation's leader in strict clinical research for "complementary medicine," determined essential lavender substantially contributes to control and relief of post-operative o oxygen to one half of the group and oxygen alone to the other half. All twenty-five patients in the experimental lavender group reported considerably higher satisfaction with the facility's pain management regime than patients in the control group. Researchers also reported patients in the experimental group recovered and were ready for discharge sooner than patients in the control group.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Essential Oils and Burns - Why Many People Choose Therapeutic Grade Lavender Essential Oil

The essential oil of lavender is one of many natural and pharmaceutical products available for treating burns. It is my treatment of choice, and has been the treatment of choice for a number of people since the ancient Egyptians, if not before.

An Example

Recently, a friend emailed me to ask what essential oil I might recommend for first and second degree burns on his face. He had been out burning tree branches, when he became careless and got too close.

People who have studied essential oils for any length of time have learned that the highest choice for burns of any kind is a pure, therapeutic grade lavender essential oil.

Why Lavender?

A therapeutic grade of lavender essential oil is made up of over a hundred different compounds that do more than just help with burns.

1. One of these compounds has analgesic (pain relieving) properties.

2. Another compound in lavender gives it antiseptic properties.

3. Some medical doctors - mostly in Europe and Ecuador - also use lavender to prevent scarring.

4. The bottom line is that the constituents in lavender oil have many healing properties.

How to Use It

There are a number of ways to use lavender essential oil on such a burn, and here are three ways that come to mind first.

1. Diluting therapeutic grade lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia) with a high quality, organic vegetable oil 50:50 and applying it on the burn.

2. With therapeutic grade lavender essential oil, some people would not dilute it at all.

3. Putting therapeutic grade lavender essential oil in a spray bottle with purified water and spritz on.

Two Cautions

Before you go out and buy the first bottle of lavender esential oil that you can find, there are two extremely important cautions you should know about, because there are two types of "lavender" oils that can make burns WORSE.

1. Lavender that has been adulterated with synthetic chemicals. This includes the "lavender" that says "pure" on the label, but according to U.S. law, might have as little as 5% lavender and who knows what else as the other 95%.

2. Lavandin that has been labeled as lavender, or even mixed with lavender. Lavandin, because of its camphor content, will make burns worse!

Monday, April 18, 2011

Cooking With Lavender - Beyond Aromatherapy

Lavender has been a variety popular herb for hundreds of years. Use of this herb has actually been documented back more than 2500 years ago. At one time, it was used for perfume and mummification by the ancient Egyptians. The English Lavender that we know about today was not around until the 1600s and it was not even developed in England either. It was Queen Victoria that would make it so popular in England. It was even used during World War I to help bath the wounds of soldiers. Even today, the French allow their baby lambs to graze in the lavender fields, which are supposed to make their meat fragrant and very tender.

Cooking with Lavender

When it comes to cooking with lavender, you will want to only use about 1/3 of dried lavender as opposed to fresh lavender. Just remember, if you add too much to a recipe, it can make the dish very better. A little can go a long way, since this is a very strong herb.

One of the benefits of cooking with lavender is that it adds great color to many dishes. In bread recipes, you can often substitute it in for rosemary. Another option is to seal sugar in a bag together with some lavender flowers. After a couple weeks, use the sugar in desserts for a special flavor. The lavender flowers make a great garnish that will look lovely on the table.

Harvesting the flowers correctly is important. Go with those that are in full color. If they are wilted, avoid using them. Make sure you rinse the blooms before every using them while you are cooking. If you harvest a lot of lavender at one time, drying it is a great option.

Lavender White Truffle Crostini Recipe

Wondering how to start using lavender in your cooking? Here is an easy and tasty recipe that you can use as a great appetizer. You will be sure to wow guests with the lavender flowers you use in the recipe.

What You'll Need:

  • ½ cup of black olive paste (if you cannot find paste, process green and black olives until smooth and use instead of paste)
  • 8 slices of Italian style bread, ½ thick
  • ½ teaspoon of lavender flowers
  • 1 teaspoon of white truffle oil
How to Make:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Place the slices of bread on a baking sheet. Bake in oven for 5-6 minutes or until they are lightly toasted. In a mini processor or a bowl, mash your olive paste, lavender flowers, and the truffle oil until combined. Spread this on the bread while it is still warm and serve right away.

Tag : lavender,aromatherapy,cooking

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Lavender Oils: Do You Know How to Choose the Best Quality?

Lavender oil is one of the most popular essential oils for aromatherapy. Health benefits of lavender oil have been documented in numerous studies and researches. Some of the well known benefits include its ability to induce sleep, relieve nerve tension, uplift mood, relieve pain, and improve respiratory functions. To experience those benefits, aromatherapy and health related books and articles advise us to use "pure" oil.

However, there is no international guideline that would help us to determine the quality of the oil. Without reliable guideline, how can we buy good quality lavender oil? In this article, first, conditions that will affect the quality of lavender oil will be discussed. Second, important considerations to find good lavender oil will be discussed.

The quality of lavender oil is greatly influenced by several factors. First, it is the quality of lavender itself. It is greatly affected by the soil condition, temperature, and amount of rain fall. Lavender is sensitive to humidity and heat.

Second, it is the timing of processing. To produce good oil and preserve quality, lavender has to be distilled and processed immediately after harvesting.

Lastly, the way the oil is packed, stored, and handled affects the quality. After the oil is produced, it has to be stored in a tightly closed, darkened glass container and placed in a cool and dark place. Chemical degradation can occur when the product is exposed to heat, light, or oxygen.

With these things in mind, what do we need to look for?

  • If you are seeking health benefits, do not buy oils that have like "fragrance oil," "scented oil," and "perfume oil" on the labels. Those products are artificial and cannot be used for aromatherapy.
  • Is the Latin name of the lavender provided in the label? There are many different kinds of lavender. Looking for the Latin names of lavender is important because they have different aromatic uses. Mainly four kinds of lavender are used as oil. They are True lavender (Lavandula angustifolia or Lavandul officinalis), Spike lavender (Lavandula spica), French lavender (Lavandula stoecas), and Lavandin (Lavandula hybrida).
  • Does the label provide the country of origin and/or a lot number? The information of the country of origin is important because the quality of lavender oil can vary by the country. It is more desirable if the label has a lot number because responsible and respectable companies assign the numbers to their products to assure safety and quality. With lot numbers, they can track information about the country of origin and the year that lavender olis was produced as well as the quality of the oil.
  • Research the market price. If the price is really law, the oil is probably fake or synthetic.
If you are still in doubt about your judgment, it is always best to ask questions before purchasing your lavender oils, whether from online or in a store.

Tag : lavender,lavender oils,oils

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Aromatherapy Essential Oils and Lavender Blends - Lavender Oil

Lavender Oil is one of the most utilized oils in Aromatherapy. Its calming effect is well documented and it is used in a wide variety of products, from perfumes and deodorants to mosquito repellents and aftersun lotions. Its uses as an essential oil vary from treatments for restlessness and anxiety through to treatment for burns and insect stings. Whatever use you put lavender oil to, the scent of Lavender Oil is unmistakable. And here at Lavender Oil & Co you can find several different types of Lavender Essential Oil, as well as many other complimentary products that are good for the body, soul and mind.

As well as having many uses, Lavender Oil also comes in many different varieties. These varieties have different scents and properties. English grown lavender tends to be "woodier" in scent than its French counterpart whilst Bulgarian lavender has a sweeter aroma. Bulgaria is the biggest exporter of lavender in Europe, possibly in the world. It is often mis-sold as French Lavender. English organically grown and distilled Lavender is widely regarded as the best in the world and is commonly used in cooking and for culinary purposes.

Lavender has been appreciated for centuries. It is documented in works over 2500 years old and even mentioned in the Bible. There are many myths associated with Lavender. Placing a sprig of lavender in a lovers shoe would stop them from straying for example. During the plague Lavender was used to anoint ones clothing to repel the sickness. This could be in part true as Lavender Oil is a natural insect repellent and could have kept away the fleas that spread the illness. In modern times it is often use

As you can probably tell, we love lavender. In fact we love all of our products and we are sure that you will too. None of our products have been tested on animals, and they all utilize the many and varied wonderful plants that our planet has given us. We pride ourselves on using products that are as close as possible to their rawest form. Just as nature intended. Lavender oil, has long been used in the production of perfume, can also be used in Aromatherapy Oils. The scent has a calming effect which may aid in relaxation and the reduction of anxieties. Kashmir Lavender oil is also very famous as it is produced from the foothills of Himalayas.

It may also help to relieve pain from tension headache when breathed in as vapor or diluted and rubbed on the skin. When added to a vaporizer, lavender oil may aid in the treatment of cough and respiratory infection.

Lavender oil & co manufactures these herbal oils that may also be used as a mosquito repellent when worn as perfume or when added to lotions or hair products.

Tag : lavender,lavender blends,lavender oil,aromatherapy,essential oils


Monday, March 7, 2011

Use Lavender in Cooking As It's Really Good For You

Remember grandma always smelling like a flower? Well that was lavender, used by ladies through the centuries. Other than being extremely beneficial lavender smells delicious. The flower when crushed gives off the most aromatic fragrance there is. When it is dried, it still holds its lovely color and scent. Many will plant lavender around their gardens because of the beauty and the scent. Lavender will attract butterflies to any garden, and what is prettier than a few butterflies in the garden?

Lavender has been around over 2500 years, and was known to be used to mummify and perfume the Egyptian dead. Romans used it for cooking, bathing and scenting the air. So stated in the Bible, Mary took spikenard, or lavender to anoint the feet of Jesus. Lavender, some say was found in the Garden of Eden, but the scent was not there yet. It is stated that the scent came from when the clothing of baby Jesus was laid on bushes to dry, these bushes were lavender. It is touted as a safeguard against evil.

Using lavender oil is wonderful for the skin, taken orally will help the digestion of foods; it is also used to cure headaches and those sleepless nights. Some will use the oil added to water and spray where they spend the most time, energy practitioners such as healers will use it to clear the negative energy and clean the auras. You can use it to spray your skin and hair on a hot summer day. During the Great Plague of London in the 17th century it was used to ward off the deadly disease if worn on the wrist. In the 16th century in France, glove makers would put lavender into the glove to resist infection.

Love and lavender seem to go hand in hand. Listen up ladies; many use this wonderful plant to lure the one they want to entice. Cleopatra used lavender to seduce Julius Cesar and Mark Anthony. The Queen of Sheba offered it to King Solomon along with frankincense and myrrh. Lavender has such a relaxing quality, not many other herbs can hold that title. Some say that men like the smell of lavender and pumpkin, and lavender was found out to be the most arousing. Today lavender is used as scenting the dresser draws and hope chests. You can also sip a cup of tea with lavender and feel your body slow down about twenty paces.

Tag : lavender,lavender cooking,cooking


Sunday, February 27, 2011

Growing Lavender Plant Varieties in the Finest Conditions and How to Use Them

Growing lavender plants is a very simple process. They are a very well adapt plant and can survive in many conditions. Even though the plant did originate from the warmer climate of the Mediterranean. Lavender will require well drained soil with a warm climate and in full sun. It is a very hardy plant as it does survive well in rocky soil. One element to keep at bay is not to water your plant too much. Try and keep the soil moist but do not over water as this will cause root rot.

Plants that are set in the ground during the summer will bloom in early spring so a harvest must be taken to produce more flowers for the summer. There are many different types of lavender and some have different sizes. Some stems on some lavender will grow to higher than twelve inches while others are small and compact at two to three inches. Lavender doesn't just come in purple either, you can get it in blue, pink or white.

When you harvest the flowers in the spring cut long stemmed lavender to one third of its height. The short stemmed lavender can be cut all the way down to new growth. After winter you may see an area in your lavender plant that is brown but do not cut it back until the middle or end of June. It just might start to sprout by then. Cut flowers whenever you need them and also cut the plant back in order to retain shape. Do this at the end of the spring season and again in August. This will give the plant time to build back energy before winter comes and covers it with snow.

You do not have to grow lavender just in the ground as it grows great in a container. People that live in a shady place can move the containers here and there to keep them in sunlight. The large roots of a lavender plant like to be contained in a small area for some reason. The pot you put a lavender plant in should only be a few inches larger than the root system itself. The pot must drain after watering so put a large amount of gravel in the base of the pot before planting. Water lavender plants only when the soil feels very dry to the touch.

Lavender comes in a variety of types and you can get some that will endure a major winter blast. There is lavender with tall stems and some with short and some lavender types are more known for the lovely smell of the flowers. If you have a project to make wreaths get a type that has big flowers. If you want to make something that smells good get a type that is popular because of the extreme scent it gives off. If you like the look of a hedge of lavender purchase plants that are fast growers. Take a good look at where you live and grow lavender plant types that are right for your climate. There are so many types you will be able to find just the right one for you.

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