 Name comes from the Latin root “lavare” meaning “to wash”.  Used in baths, as it was believed to purify body and spirit.  Now commonly used for its aromatic fragrance, soaps, shampoos, and soothing and sedative effects.

 Lavandula angustifolia or Lavandula officinalis  Native to the mountainous zones of the Mediterranean  Grows in sunny, stony habitats  Today, it flourishes in Southern Europe, Australia, and the United States.

 Heavily branched shrub that is a member of the mint family  The oil in the lavender plant’s flowers give it it’s fragrant scent.  This oil is extracted from fresh flowers and used for medical and relaxation purposes.

 In folklore, pillows were filled with lavender to help the restless sleep  There is now scientific evidence that aromatherapy with lavender slows the activity of the nervous system  Lavender flowers have been approved in Germany to make tea for insomnia, restlessness, and stomach irritations

 Lavender is used together with therapeutic massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic manipulation  Used for depression, headaches, and anxiety disorders  There are, however, precautions to be taken when combining with other conventional medicines

 A study from the University of Miami followed brain activity with an EEG machine.  Found more brainwaves suggesting drowsiness  University of Northumbria in the UK did a similar study with mood results, and found those exposed to lavender with notably better moods

 Can be used to calm children or pets  In theory, this can calm dogs that are fearful, agitated, and hyperactive.  10 dogs of all ages, sizes, and disposition  5 exposed to lavender oils  Recorded stress levels before and after treatment (1 hour)  Stress=barking, pacing, jumping, etc

 5 not exposed to lavender: 2 showed a drop in stress displays  5 exposed to lavender: 4 showed major reduction in stress

 Natural Health Web. Kristen Bell. 11 November /bell3.html /bell3.html  Soothe Your Senses. Psychology Today. 11 November /soothe-your-senses-lavender /soothe-your-senses-lavender  Lavender. University of Maryland November nder htm nder htm