An overview of the possibilities

Lavender in the home and garden

The ancient Egyptians used lavender a few thousand years ago, among other things, for body care, a tradition that was continued by the Romans. This original use the plant is also reflected in its name, as the name “lavender” is derived from the Latin word for “wash”, “lavare”. Even today, the scent of lavender - now often synthetically produced - can be found in many cleaning and personal care products. The deterrent effect of lavender on annoying insects such as clothes moths or mosquitoes is also known. For this reason, housewives used to pack scented bags or Lavender sticks in the linen cupboard. Lavender oil, on the other hand, should not only repel mosquitoes, but also, when applied pure on the affected parts of the plant, Drive away aphids.

Lavender as a medicinal herb

Lavender has also been used as a medicinal herb for a very long time. As early as the first century AD, the Roman doctor Dioscurides described the many uses of the plant. For example, the antiseptic effect of lavender was also known to the Roman soldiers, because they rubbed themselves with lavender oil before a battle. This should prevent inflammation in the event of a wound. Today, the calming effect of lavender on the psyche and on the gastrointestinal tract is best known. Accordingly, use takes place u. a. if you have sleep problems or gastrointestinal complaints. Lavender can be used internally (e.g. as a tea), but also externally (e.g. as a tea). B. as an ointment or tincture).

Recipe for a soothing lavender tea

If you have trouble falling asleep, often cannot rest or are simply stressed, a cup of lavender tea, drunk just before you go to sleep, could help.

• Take an ample handful dried lavender flowers.
• Pour boiling water over them.
• Let the mixture steep for about 15 minutes and then strain it off.
• drink the tea in small sips.

By the way, you can also use this brew (cooled of course) to spray your plants and Pests in a natural way keep away.

Use lavender in the kitchen

Lavender, on the other hand, is rather little known as a culinary herb, as many people consider it Leaves for poisonous. That, however, is wrong, because both the young Both the leaves and the flowers are edible and give off a wonderful aroma to meat and fish dishes. Indeed, in Provencal cuisine, there are numerous dishes with lavender - even the famous “Herbs of Provence” contain it. Do not be surprised, however, because most of the blends available in this country do not contain lavender.

Tips & Tricks

You can put together your own traditional "Herbs of Provence" mix from thyme, rosemary, marjoram, fennel (herb), oregano, savory, bay leaf, sage and lavender. You can the well-dried and stripped herbs for several months in a dark, well-sealable container.

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