Lavender

50g (1.76oz)

Medicinal Name: Lavendula Officianalis

Properties: antispasmodic, carminative, relieves anxiety, antidepressant, neuroprotective, antimicrobial

Treatment: indigestion, gas, cramps, menopause, PMS, mild depression, anxiety, muscle cramps, insomnia, ulcers

Description: Lavender is well known for its soothing and calming effect and is combined with other sedative herbs to relieve sleeplessness, irritability, headaches, and migraine. It also helps to alleviate depression.

A 2014 clinical trial found lavender oil taken internally to be more effective than both a placebo and a conventional tranquilizer in relieving generalized anxiety. It also showed antidepressant activity.

The oil is thought to have low toxicity and significant antibacterial and antifungal activity. Lavender flowers and oil have similar properties. Although little research has been conducted, it is likely the flowers have a significantly greater carminative and neuroprotective activity.

Lavender soothes indigestion and colic, and relieves gas and bloating.

Lavender’s relaxing effect makes it helpful for some types of asthma, especially where excessive nervousness is a feature.

The oil is an invaluable first aid remedy. It is strongly antiseptic, helping to heal burns, wounds, and sores. Rubbed onto insect stings, it relieves pain and inflammation, and can be used to treat scabies and head lice. Massaging a few drops on the temples eases headaches, and five drops added to a bath at night relieves muscle tension, tones the nervous system, and encourages sleep.

Preparation:

Infusion- bring water to a boil, add herbs and simmer gently for 10–15 minutes