flower remedies: lavender 

lavender, a fragrant plant with long, narrow leaves and small blue or violet blossoms, is native to the mediterranean, africa, and india and has had both medicinal and culinary uses throughout history.  thanks to the calming and regenerating effects of the flower, lavender helps relieve stress in the body and improves sleep quality.  it works exceptionally well on burns, bruises, and scrapes because it is considered an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory.  lavender was used in hospitals during world war I to disinfect floors and walls.

lavender flowers produce lots of  nectar from which bees make a high-quality honey.  also, the flowers are often candied and can be used to decorate cakes.  lavender flavor is used in baked goods and desserts as well as tea, where it offers a fresh relaxing scent and taste.  for most cooking, the dried buds are used, as they contain the essential oil of lavender, from which the scent and flavor of lavender are best derived.

lavender is used extensively with herbs & aromatherapy as well as in balms, salves, perfumes, cosmetics, & topical applications. according to folk wisdom, lavender brings quick pain relief and speedy healing to sunburns, bug bites, headaches, and itchy or irritated skin.  lavender bunches repel insects, and lavender seeds placed in pillows aid sleep.  try adding lavender flowers to a cup of boiling water and drink before sleep to feel its relaxing effects…

(photo via here)