Lavender, lovely and sweet...

  For those who know my work, they know of Lady Cassia and her love for a certain flower. Living in the south of France, she would certainly have found her favorite bloom in abundance, especially from mid July through August...

 

 

  During this time, fields of lavender are in full bloom. Mentioned in the ancient Song of Solomon as nard, lavender got its current name from the Romans, who used it in the bath and thus called it after a form of the verb lavare, which means “to wash.” Today we are still familiar with bath products, potpourri and essential oils infused with the heavenly scent of lavender. European homeopaths are no stranger to its healing properties as well, particularly for burns and inflammation.

  Some interesting lavender uses and facts:

·         Oil of lavender is used as both an anti-inflammatory and an antiseptic

·         According to folk wisdom, infusions of lavender are believed to soothe insect bites, burns, and headaches.

·         Lavender can be used to repel insects, including fleas.

·         Lavender oil (or extract of Lavender) heals acne when used diluted 1:10 with water, rosewater, or witch hazel

·         Flowers can be candied and are sometimes used as cake decorations. Lavender flavors baked goods and desserts (it pairs especially well with chocolate), and is also used to make "lavender sugar".

One can see how a medieval lady would cherish the flower for its many uses! :)

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