So what are the benefits of lavender?

by Barb Casper

My husband and I just got back from the 21st Lavender Festival, held at the Eastern Michigan Fairgrounds, in Imlay City, Michigan.  This is the largest lavender festival on the east coast and featured 175 artists. The festival showcased 7 Michigan’s top lavender farms and growers and producers from the upper and lower peninsulas.

Booths included fresh lavender plants, dried lavender, local lavender products, lavender-infused food and drinks including lavender lemonade, ice cream, macarons and more!

The Natural Health Expo ran in conjunction with the lavender festival and included a wide variety of workshops, expert presentations, wellness checks, massage, yoga, oxygen bars and much more…

1. Relaxation and Stress Relief: Lavender is renowned for its calming properties. The aroma of lavender has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality. It can be used in various forms, such as essential oil, dried flowers, or in bath products, to create a soothing environment and promote a sense of well-being.
2. Sleep Aid: Lavender is often used as a natural remedy for insomnia or sleep disturbances. Its relaxing scent can help induce sleep and improve sleep quality. Many people find that incorporating lavender into their bedtime routine, such as using lavender essential oil in a diffuser or adding dried lavender to their pillows, helps promote a more restful sleep.
3. Mood Enhancement: The scent of lavender has mood-enhancing properties and can help uplift the spirits. It is commonly used in aromatherapy to reduce feelings of sadness, anxiety, or tension and create a more positive ambiance.
4. Skin Care: Lavender has several benefits for the skin. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated or inflamed skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or insect bites. Lavender essential oil can also be used as a natural antiseptic for minor cuts, burns, or wounds.
5. Pain Relief: Lavender oil has analgesic properties and can be used topically to alleviate pain. It can help ease headaches, muscle soreness, joint pain, or menstrual cramps. Massaging diluted lavender oil onto the affected area can provide a soothing and comforting effect.
6. Respiratory Benefits: Inhaling the aroma of lavender can have respiratory benefits. It can help relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions like coughs, colds, sinus congestion, or bronchitis. The expectorant properties of lavender can help loosen phlegm and clear the airways.
7. Insect Repellent: The scent of lavender is disliked by many insects, including mosquitoes, moths, and fleas. Using lavender essential oil or placing dried lavender sachets in your home or garden can help repel these pests naturally.
8. Culinary Uses: Lavender flowers can be used in cooking and baking to add a unique floral and slightly sweet flavor. They are often used to infuse drinks, desserts, or savory dishes, providing an aromatic twist to various recipes.

It’s worth noting that while lavender is generally considered safe, some individuals may be allergic or sensitive to it. It’s always a good idea to perform a patch test before using lavender products, especially if you have sensitive skin or respiratory conditions.