Lavandula x intermedia
Lavender, Lavandula
Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Lavandula x intermedia.
General Information
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Well-drained, Moist
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Full sun
Usage properties
Leaves, Flowers, Condiment, Tea
Oil, Insecticide, Essential oil, Incense, Hedge
Description
Lavender is a widely used herb in households, particularly known for its fragrant aroma. Although it is mainly appreciated for its scent, lavender also has medicinal properties due to its calming and relaxing effect on the nervous system. The flowering tops can be dried and used internally in a tincture, but the extracted essential oil is more commonly applied. This essential oil is gentle and can be safely applied directly to the skin as an antiseptic to help heal wounds and burns. The oil contains properties such as antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, gallbladder stimulating, diuretic, nerve-calming, soothing, stimulating, and stomach-strengthening. Although it is not often used internally, it is useful for flatulence and as a nerve relaxant. Lavender oil is mainly used externally and can be used as a tonic, for example, by massaging it into the temples to relieve headaches, or as an addition to bath water. The powerful antiseptic properties of lavender can kill various bacteria and can even be used as an antidote for snake bites. The herb is effective in treating burns, sunburn, insect bites, vaginal discharge, anal fissures, and it can also help prevent permanent scarring on the affected skin. The essential oil of lavender is widely used in aromatherapy and is recommended for promoting the immune system according to the German Commission E monographs, an authority in herbal medicine.