Lavender—with its intoxicating aroma and calming qualities—is by far one of my most favorite plant ally. If you would ask my family, they’d tell you I’m quite obsessed, and I can’t help it! It smells so delightful, and the way it soothes my racing mind, we were simply bound to be a pair.
For over 2,500 years, Lavender has been revered as a tool for cleansing, healing, and spiritual connection. In my practice, it’s the quiet whisper that reminds me to slow down and find peace amidst the chaos. Let’s dive into the history, science, and magic of this versatile plant to learn how it can bring a little tranquility to your intentional life.
The Magick & Medicine of Lavender
When we think of Lavender, we think of calm, and the science behind that is beautiful. Lavender, particularly the variety Lavandula angustifolia, has a complex chemical makeup that delivers its therapeutic power.
The magic in its scent comes from Linalool, the constituent that gives Lavender its characteristic floral aroma. Additionally, linalool is the compound that brings calm to the nervous system, which is the main reason Lavender possesses its famous sleep-promoting and anxiety-reducing properties.
Medicinal Actions for the Seeking Soul
This beloved plant is much more than just a sweet scent. It’s a powerful ally for the struggles of day-to-day life:
Soothing Stress & Anxiety
Flip to learn moreJust as the people of the past did, we still incorporate Lavender into our day-to-day lives to calm nerves. Consequently, studies have shown that using Lavender oil through inhalation or topical application is highly effective at reducing anxiety levels and alleviating the feeling of being in a “fog.”
A Ritual for Rest
Flip to learn moreLavender is the cornerstone of sleep support. As a result, studies have shown that people who use Lavender have found it effective in promoting deep relaxation and helping them fall asleep faster.
Healing & Pain Management
Flip to learn moreDue to its antiseptic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, Lavender is ideal for minor cuts and burns. Further, its ability to promote healing while decreasing pain makes it a staple in any practical home apothecary. Additionally, studies have even shown that inhaling Lavender oil during the onset of a migraine can reduce significant pain.
Skincare Magic
Flip to learn moreOur skin is the largest organ we have, and Lavender has become a popular ingredient in lotions and balms to soothe sunburns, heal minor cuts, and help with conditions like acne and eczema.
Ancient Wisdom
Across the globe, Lavender has been integrated into ancient, holistic systems of healing:
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has categorized Lavender as warm, pungent, and bitter, and is associated with the Liver Meridian. Additionally, it’s used to alleviate headaches, dizziness, and to ease stress, anxiety, and irritability—all seen as manifestations of Liver Qi stagnation.
Likewise, Ayurveda placed Lavender in the warming and pungent category, associated with the Vata and Kapha doshas. It is traditionally used for stress relief (Vata imbalance) and topically for cleansing and soothing Kapha-associated skin conditions like eczema.
The Art of Harvesting & Preparation
Lavender’s journey through history is as captivating as its fragrance. Valued by Greeks and Romans for medicinal and cleansing abilities, it was used in baths, treating wounds, and even as incense in religious ceremonies.
Understanding Your Plant Ally
The best variety for healing and medicinal use is Lavandula angustifolia. Further, Lavender is a hardy shrub that thrives on neglect and full sun.
Preparations for Your Practice
Lavender is more than just a pretty plant and has been used medicinally throughout history. So, what can we use it for and how can it improve our well-being? Let’s find out how versatile Lavender truly is!
Medicinal Use
Above all, Lavender essential oil must always be diluted with a carrier oil (like Jojoba). Afterwards, massage the diluted oil onto temples for headaches, or into sore muscles and bug bites for relief.
Dosage & Administration
- Tea: Up to 1-2 teaspoons of dried flower per cup of hot water, 2-3 times a day.
- Aromatherapy: Use 3-5 drops in a diffuser for ambient scent.
- Essential Oil: Should always be diluted with a carrier oil. It’s generally recommended to do a 1 percent dilution for sensitive skin (about 6 drops of essential oil per 1 ounce of carrier oil).
Aromatherapy Rituals
This is Lavender’s most popular use. Add a diffuser to your living room to calm the small human chaos, or create misting sprays for your bedsheets.
As Traditional Food
You can infuse honey or sugar with Lavender, or use the flower buds sparingly in baked goods for a sweet, floral, and calming treat.
DID YOU KNOW?
The name “Lavender” itself is believed to come from the Latin word “lavare,” which means “to wash.” The Romans famously used Lavender to scent their public baths and to wash clothes, spreading the herb on floors to act as a natural disinfectant and air freshener. It was literally the ancient world’s all-purpose cleaner and energetic cleansing herb!
Lavender’s Magical Properties & Correspondences
Beyond the mundane, Lavender has captivated witches and seekers for its rich magical history in protection, healing, and love.
Magical Uses
Lavender is heavily associated with love, healing, and divination. Historically, young women would drink Lavender tea in hopes of dreaming of their future spouse. Today, you can wear it to attract love, or rub the dried herb on self-love notes to a past version of yourself to promote healing.
On the other hand, Lavender is believed to ward off evil spirits and bad luck. For instance, placing dried sachets under your pillow will disperse night terrors, or mist a cold water solution over your windows to promote peace and protection.
Additionally, since Lavender brings clarity and peace, many carry it to enhance intuition and clear the mind before divination work.
Working with Lavender: A Note of Respect
According to the Botanical Safety Handbook, Lavender is given one of the highest safety ratings. However, here are some precautions to be mindful of:
Essential Oil Safety: Lavender essential oil should be taken internally only under the guidance of a trained clinician. Never use undiluted oil directly on the skin, as it can cause irritation or chemical burns.
Allergies: If you have an allergy to the Lamiaceae (Mint) family, you may also have sensitivities to Lavender.
Pregnancy: Lavender essential oil should generally be avoided internally during pregnancy.
In conclusion, Lavender’s gift is its gentle reminder that peace is always accessible—in a warm bath, in a cup of tea, or simply in a quiet moment of intention. By inviting this beautiful plant ally into your home, you are performing a powerful act of self-care and spiritual hygiene.
I encourage you to begin your Lavender practice with a simple ritual: steep a cup of tea, inhale the aroma, and set a simple intention for calm.
Blessed Be ✨
