Provence Lavender (Lavandula x intermedia)

This Provence Lavender plant is the newest plant in my herb collection.  My plant is very young, and I can't wait until it begins to flower!  Between spring and autumn, lavender plants grow gorgeous purple blossoms that are cultivated for the extraction of its natural oils which have many uses.

Aside from the beautiful scent it produces, Lavender has many other beneficial qualities.  As part of the mint family, lavender can be used in teas, the oil extracted from the plant can be used topically on the skin, added to soaps or lotions, and used for medicinal purposes as well.

The name lavender comes from the Latin root 'lavare', which means "to wash." Lavender probably received this name because it was frequently used to scent bath soaps. However, this herb has also been used as a natural remedy for many different ailments ranging from insomnia and anxiety to depression and fatigue.  It is also used to help with relieving headaches, nervous disorders, and exhaustion. Research has confirmed that lavender produces calming, soothing, and sedative effects when the fragrance from the plant is inhaled.

Lavender is native to the mountainous region of the Mediterranean region where it grows in sunny, dry habitats. Today, it is thriving throughout southern Europe, Australia, and the United States.  Lavender is a short shrub that grows to a height of about 24 inches.

A number of studies have reported that lavender essential oil may be beneficial in helping a variety of conditions, including insomnia, alopecia (hair loss), stress, anxiety, and postoperative pain.  Lavender is also being studied for antibacterial and antiviral properties. Lavender oil is sold at many health food stores and often used in alternative medicine, such as massage and acupuncture.