Name
The genus name “Lavandula” comes from the latin verb “lavare” (to wash) because ancient romans used to scent washing waters and baths. The specific name “angustifolia” is Latin for “narrow leaf”. Previously, it was known as “Lavandula officinalis” meaning that it was the official medicinal lavender.
Also Known as
- common lavender
- true lavender
- narrow-leaved lavender
- english lavender
- Lavandula spica
- Lavandula vera
- Lavandula officinalis
Identification Keys
- bushy evergreen herb
- square stalk
- height: 1-2 m
- opposite leaves
- narrow leaves, 2-6 cm long, 4-6 mm broad
- pinkish-purple (lavender color) flowers
- 2-lipped flowers
- flowers grow on narrowly cylindrical spikes 2–8 cm long at the top of slender, leafless stems 10–30 cm long
- strongly scented
Bloom Time
- June-August
Habitat
- prefers a sunny place and light, dry, well-drained soil
- grows up to 1500 m
Look-alikes
You can confuse Lavandula angustifolia with other plants of the same genus Lavandula.
Medicine Uses
Parts Used
Flowers
Actions
carminative, diuretic, antispasmodic, nerve tonic, analgesic, stimulant, digestive, sedative, antimicrobial, antiseptic, diaphoretic, expectorant, antidepressant, antioxidant
Systems
Digestion
- releases spasm and colic
- relieves wind
- combats bowel problems related to tension and anxiety
- used for infections that cause vomiting and diarrhea
- volatile oils active against bacteria and fungi
Mental and emotional
- wonderful for anxiety and stress-related symptoms (headaches, migraines, neuralgia, palpitations, insomnia)
- lifts the spirits
- restores energy in tiredness and nervous exhaustion
Respiratory system
- increases resistance to colds, coughs, chest infections, flu tonsillitis and laryngitis
- clears phlegm
- relieves asthma
Immune system
- volatile oils are antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic
- reduces fevers taken as hot tea
- help to remove toxins via the skin and urine, taken as hot tea
Reproductive system
- reduces pain after childbirth and speeds healing (used in baths)
Externally
- antiseptic for inflammatory and infective skin problems such as eczema, acne, varicose ulcers and nappy rash
- stimulates tissue repair
- minimizes scar formation applying oil to burns, cuts, wounds, sores and ulcers
- repels insects
- relieves bites and stings
- soothes pain of bruises, sprains, gout, arthritis and muscle tension
Harvesting
- gathering lavender when the flowers are full in color and they start to open
- cut flowers on a dry and sunny day. The dew needs to be off of the plants before you harvest to allow a quickly healing
- tie bundles of lavender upside down in a dark dry area with good air circulation. When dry, place in a jar and store out of light