Renowned in film titles (Lavender Ladies) and even in lullabies ("Lavender Blue"), lavender has been a popular remedy since ancient times and, to the surprise of some and the confirmation of others' staunch insistence, it's not just an "old wives' tale, but a scientific statistic of substance---particularly regarding neurological disorders.
Personally and with all respect, I have never understood those dear friends who protested to "too much" of a lavender scent; I myself use it in cooking, perfume, and even homemade cosmetics. As an essential oils distributor, I gladly utilize the French method of ingestion, and have found great calming effects from just one drop. Not only is the taste delicious; it infuses a lovely purple-pink shade into my secondary fermentation of kombucha brew, or lavender-lemonade in the summers. Ingestion allows for both internal and aromatherapy enjoyment, but favorable results are reaped from either method, as well. Whatever your personal taste (or distaste) for the delicate herb, however, it would be well worth a try just for the medicinal benefits is boasts through research.
If a more spiritual reason to embrace oils is needed, Scripture records a number of events associated with their use. Frankincense and cedarwood, among many other examples, were used for ceremonial purposes and incense. Spikenard is surmised to be an ancient Grecian equivalent to today's lavender; if your memory of biblical oils serves you well, you will also recall that spikenard was the oil used by Mary in anointing the feet of Jesus with her hair.
Clearly, Lavender isn't just about a "pretty face." Perhaps its greatest healing ability concerns its reputation as "nature's antioxidant super hero," coupled with its "unique ability to protect against neurological damage." With a seemingly never-ending surfacing of diseases involving anxiety and depression, it might serve a bit of solace to know that this ancient herb is now scientifically backed---and with satisfying results, apart from harmful side-effects. According to Dr. Josh Axe:
"Just last November, for instance, an evidence-based study was published by the International Journal of Psychiatry in Clinical Practice.The study found that supplementing with 80 mg capsules of lavender essential oil alleviates anxiety, sleep disturbance and depression."
While ingestion of the herb is considered safe, like any medicine, amount is relevant to the outcome. Because of its high antioxidant value, medical minds suggest no more than a drop or two by essential oil, but be sure to select from a reputable source. You are welcome to contact the author personally for a suggested brand, please feel welcome to do so. In the meantime, feel free to fall in love with lavender in your culinary and aromatherapy experiences! It will instantaneously promote feelings of relaxation and peace.
"Lavender's green, dilly, dilly, Lavender's blue if you love me, dilly, dilly, I will love you. Let the birds sing, dilly, dilly, And the lambs play. We shall be safe, dilly, dilly, out of harm's way (Traditional English folksong, author unknown)..."
