LAVENDER
(lavandula augustifola or L.officinalis)
The word 'lavender' comes from the Latin lavare meaning 'to wash'. Lavender was and still is today a frequent addition to baths and is considered a purifier for the mind and body. Since ancient times, lavender has been used as a digestive aid, a sleep aid and a tranquilizer for those who are anxious, restless or emotionally troubled. Because of its mood-altering effects, lavender can also be used as an anti-depressent. English farmers once wore spikes of lavender flowers under their hats to prevent headache and sunstroke. Flowers can be dried, powdered, and sewn into pillowcases as a treatment for insomnia. The herb is also considered a cure for acne, migraine, diabetes, faintness, headache and muscle spasms. Lavender infusions and tinctures can be used to disinfect wounds as it will help them heal quicker. Lavender is a popular ingredient in satchets and potpourris, that freshen the room, particulary that of the sick room. Place sprigs in the wardrobe or closet to add fragrance to clothing and to repel moths.
	In the 16th Centuary, John Gerard wrote in his herbal "It profiteth them much that have the palsy if they be washed with water of lavender flowers, or are annointed with the oil made from flowers and the olive oil" Fifty years later, Nicholas Culpeper prescribed Lavender for "all the grief and pains of the head.... it strengthens the stoamach.... two spoonfuls of the distilled water of the flowers help them that have lost their voice....
DREAMTIME OIL BLEND: Majoram - 3 drops Lavender - 3 drops Orange - 2 drops Nutmeg - 2 drops Burn in a oil burner prior to retiring for the night. Majoram for sound sleep, Lavender for peaceful sleep, Orange to make it smell nice and Nutmeg to give you colourful dreams. Guarenteed to give you a good nights sleep with vivid dreams. (I know, I use this myself).
LAVENDER MILK: This refreshing drink is great for those summer evenings sitting on the verandah and its also a very good tonic. Just crush a handfull of fresh lavender and mix with a litre of milk, cover with a piece of linen, or simlilar material and leave for a few hours. Strain the mixture through a piece of nylon or a sieve crushing the herb with a spoon. The milk should change colour to the that of the herb although this is not always the case. Serve chilled, or if you want something a little more fancy you could always add fresh fruits or maybe even ice-cream.
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