Lavender may be commonly associated with the famous mothballs that wreak havoc on our clothes. In fact, it performs brilliantly in this and many other roles. It's one of the most important plants in the cosmetics and perfume industries. After all, it's valuable to us not only for its pleasant scent. It's even found application in gastronomy . Chefs are increasingly using it to flavor their dishes. What other secrets does lavender hide from us? Welcome to the article.
Lavender - a handful of information
Lavender is a species of flowering plant in the Jastoaceae family. There are about 40 species of this plant, but the most cultivated and widespread is narrow-leaved lavender (Latin Lavandula angustifolia Mill.), commonly called medicinal lavender. In Poland, it is grown mainly in the south of the country and is often planted in gardens for its aesthetic qualities. It is an evergreen plant that produces small, purple flowers with a characteristic and intense fragrance. It comes from the Mediterranean region. In the past, it was called fragrant, cornflower, and cleaner, especially in folk tales. Lavender is a shrub and grows to about 60 centimeters tall. Currently, it is a cultivated plant and grows naturally on limestone slopes at an altitude of up to 2000 meters above sea level. The plant raw material is lavender flower (Lavendulae Flos). Lavender oil (Lavendulae oleum), obtained by steam distillation from fresh lavender flowers, is also used medicinally. Lavender flowers can also be obtained by drying whole shoots with inflorescences, then grinding them, and discarding the inflorescences.
What substances does narrow-leaved lavender contain
The essential oil extracted from lavender flowers is particularly valued in this plant. It is this oil that gives lavender flowers their characteristic scent, but that is not their only property. The main components of lavender oil are alcohols and esters. It also contains large amounts of phenolic compounds and plant sterols. It also contains minerals and organic acids. These substances determine the healing properties of lavender. They have a diaphoretic and diuretic effect and increase gastric secretion. The flowers and oil have an antispasmodic effect on the smooth muscles of the upper respiratory tract, the bile ducts, and the intestines. Lavender itself is one of the most popular remedies in herbal medicine. It is valued for its positive effects on neuroses and stress.
Lavender for colds and more
Lavender can protect the mucous membranes and respiratory tract from various diseases. It is also effective in treating colds and catarrh. Components of narrow-leaved lavender can destroy viruses, bacteria, and fungi on the skin's surface. It has an effect similar to that of antibiotics. It has been scientifically proven that lavender oil at a concentration of 0.2/1000 can be effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. We can also use it by rubbing lavender oil on the chest, back, and limbs. It effectively warms and supports the treatment of influenza. This is due to its very strong antiviral properties. Lavender infusion, on the other hand, has a diaphoretic effect. This property can also be helpful in the treatment of various diseases by helping to eliminate harmful toxins from the body. Regular massages with lavender oil relieve muscle pain, joint pain, rheumatic pain, muscle tension, and back pain.
Lavender for the digestive system
Infusions of narrow-leaf lavender, taken orally, can stimulate the secretion of bile and gastric juice. This is particularly important for fat digestion, but not only. It also relieves colic and flatulence. Lavender preparations stimulate the appetite, also due to its positive effect on intestinal peristalsis. Like almost all mint plants, it is a digestive aid. It facilitates the excretion of excessive gases that accumulate in the intestines.
Calming and anti-stress properties of lavender
The main property of narrow-leaved lavender is definitely its calming and relaxing effect. Most lavender species have been used since the beginning of time to relax the body and mind. The scent of lavender, derived from essential oils, has a strong calming effect, facilitating sleep, rest, and rejuvenation. It can also be excellent for reducing stress and tension. Aromatherapy is increasingly placing emphasis on the medicinal properties of plants.
Lavender for the skin
Lavender has powerful antiseptic and antifungal properties. For this reason, this oil can be used to treat acne. Lavender oil can also accelerate wound healing and reduce the formation of extensive scars. It is also a sought-after ingredient in cosmetics for scalp care. Lavender oil is also an irreplaceable ingredient in hair care. It has powerful anti-dandruff and antifungal properties. It prevents hair loss and excessive oiliness and stimulates hair growth.
Lavender - Anti-toxic and anti-tumor properties
Narrow-leaved lavender can be an effective antidote. Applied externally, it is an excellent soothing treatment for insect bites. Interestingly, in the Mediterranean, animals bitten by vipers are given lavender to eat.
American scientists have studied the properties of lavender with regard to its anti-cancer effects. The substance in question was one of the alcohols it contains, specifically perillyque. Some lavender species contain large amounts of it. Preliminary studies are very promising. It has been shown that this alcohol can be effective in fighting cancer of the prostate and digestive system.
Immunostimulating and diuretic properties of lavender
Lavender stimulates the immune system, increasing its activity and the effectiveness of the immune response itself. All you need to do is add a few drops of lavender oil to a sugar cube or swallow it neat. It's especially beneficial in autumn and winter. Lavender infusions also provide the body with large amounts of water and increase diuresis, increasing the amount of water excreted by the kidneys. In addition, an infusion of this plant can be helpful for hypertension, edema, and heart failure.
Lavender – its scent effectively repels mosquitoes, flies, bedbugs, spiders, ants, and moths. There are many ways to use it. From planting it in the garden and in pots at home to hanging dried lavender bouquets in insect-infested areas. New, and above all, natural, pest-fighting remedies based on lavender oil are constantly being developed. On the other hand, if we like the smell of lavender, it's a good idea to offer lavender-scented products. This includes all kinds of scented candles, essential oils, waxes, or fireplace inserts.
Contraindications to the use of lavender
Lavender should not be used by pregnant women or while breastfeeding. Lavender oil used in excessive amounts can be neurotoxic. Medicinal lavender may cause allergic reactions or irritation, so it's worth familiarizing yourself with its effects before use. Finally, according to sources, it's virtually impossible to overdose on lavender. However, this doesn't mean you shouldn't be careful when using it.
Summary
Narrow-leaved lavender, like its other varieties, has a number of health-promoting properties. It's worth considering incorporating lavender supplements into your daily diet. As you've read, it's not only an effective moth repellant, but has a much broader spectrum of effects. However, keep in mind that it's not a medicine. It can only support the treatment of the aforementioned illnesses and conditions. Nevertheless, it's worth experimenting.
