Mind Body & Soul
Lavender
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Once people stop thinking that lavender belongs in a pretty sachet at the bottom of the lingerie drawer, they open up to its many healing uses and culinary opportunities - such as this delicious lavender lunch of toast, spread with apple lavender ginger chutney, topped with a slice of cheese and popped under the grill until golden brown. Delicious!
The oldest lavender recipe Rosemary Holmes of the Yuulong Lavender Farm has found is for lavender sugar, prepared especially for Queen Elizabeth I of England, probably around the time that Shakespeare may have been sipping his calming Shakespeare's Tea – an infusion of lavender, mint, savory and marjoram.
Lavender came to English shores from Rome but its origins are thought to be in the Mediterranean, North Africa, Greece and possibly India.
Chefs and cooks have embraced the humble herb, creating gourmet experiences beyond your imagination – lavender marmalade, lemonade, chutney, biscuits. Even lavender honey may tickle your fancy, or perhaps you prefer something a little more savoury, such as lavender mustard.
Lavender delicacies are made from the flower of the plant and, if you are growing your own, Rosemary advises that angustifolia varieties are the best for cooking, as other varieties may give a bitter taste.
Whilst lavender flowers are used for cooking and teas, lavender oils have many therapeutic properties. Lavender is antiseptic and disinfectant, calming, soothing and relaxing. It is being used extensively in oncology wards, birthing centres and nursing homes, in oil burners for relaxation and as an oil for massage.
"My dentist has lavender oil in her air conditioning unit," says Rosemary. "She finds it is soothing for patients who have a fear of getting into the dentist's chair."
Lavender is known as one of the safest essential oils and can be applied to the skin as an insect repellent and to heal bites, stings and sunburn. It may also be useful for skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis, and works wonders as a liniment for tired and aching muscles.
Lavender oil can be applied externally but is not recommended for internal consumption. It is a common ingredient in skin, hair and moisturising products.
Lavender is sometimes called the nerve herb. If you are suffering from anxiety, insomnia or depression, try burning a few drops of lavender in an oil burner and you may find that it creates a feeling of calmness and serenity. Applied directly to the temples, lavender can also relieve a headache.
For a simple mood enhancer to begin your day, pluck a sprig of lavender and crush it in your fingertips. Just one whiff can lift your mood whilst reminding you of the delightful synchronicity between plants and people. Don't underestimate this simple bloom – it could save you hundreds of dollars in therapy. Folklore tells us that lovers who place lavender between the sheets will never quarrel!
