Lavender, with its soothing aroma and balancing properties, is revered in Ayurveda for promoting relaxation and harmony within the mind, body, and spirit.

Lavender is a fragrant flowering plant scientifically known as Lavandula. The name lavender is derived from the latin word lavare, means to wash. In Ayurveda it is known by a very unique name i.e. Ustukhuddusa. In ancient Greece, it was used as a perfume in baths, laundry and was carried by Roman army for use as a disinfectant. Renowned for its distinct aroma and myriad of uses, lavender has been cherished for centuries for its medicinal, culinary and aromatic properties. Its aromatic essence continues to soothe souls and inspire minds.
A fragrant herb, 0.6-0.9 meters high, grows well in regions with a mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Its leaves are 1-4cm long, greyish tomentose. Flowers are pinkish-purple colored, produced on spikes 2-3 cm long at the top of slender leafless stems 10-30cm long with dense short peduncle spikes with camphor odor. Seeds are minute, flat and  black-yellow colored. Flower blooms from late spring to early summer, depending on the specific variety and local climate conditions. 
There are numerous varieties of lavender cultivated around the world. Among them 4 are popular ones which are used medicinally. These are  English lavender, French lavender, Spanish lavender and lavandin.  
The flower’s strong and pleasant fragrance has led to its popular use in aromatherapy, where it is considered as one of the most versatile and useful essential oils. It is believed to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. The aroma of lavender is thought to stimulate the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which contributes to feeling of well-being and relaxation.
10 HEALTH BENEFITS
1. Stress Reliever
Lavender’s soothing aroma is widely recognized for its stress relieving effects. Whether diffused in the air, added to bath water or applied topically, it can help alleviate feelings of stress and promote relaxation.
2. Analgesic
Whether used topically or through aromatherapy, lavender provides relief from various types of pain, including headaches, muscle tension and joint discomfort. Incorporating lavender oil into massage therapy, can enhance its analgesics effects and promote overall relaxation.
3. Induces Sleep
Lavender’s sedative properties make it an excellent aid for improving the sleep quality. Diffusing lavender oil in the bedroom or using lavender-infused pillows and linen can create a calm sleep environment conductive to restful sleep.
4. Mood Elevator
The uplifting scent of lavender can help elevate mood and happiness and well-being. Whether used in aromatherapy, diffusers, room sprays or personal care products, lavender can uplift the spirits and creates a sense of positivity.    
5. Female Friendly
Women of reproductive age have experienced the benefits of lavender which help to alleviate premenstrual emotional symptoms.
6. Headache
Massage with a combination of lavender and peppermint essential oils has been recommended to relieve tension headache.
7. Clear Airways
Can be used in steam to relieve respiratory problems and relax breathing passages as well.
8. Antioxidant
Contains antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. The antioxidant activity contributes to lavender’s anti-aging benefits and its ability to support overall skin health.
9. Carminative
Helps to alleviate gas and bloating in the digestive system by relaxing the muscles and reducing spasms, which can aid in expelling gas from the intestines.
10. Antimicrobial
Possesses antimicrobial properties, making it effective against a range of bacteria, fungi and viruses. This has led to the use of lavender in natural cleaning products, as well as in topical preparations for wound healing.

HOW  TO USE?
1. Essential oil
Extracted from the flowers, lavender essential oil is used in aromatherapy and skin care products.
•    Add a few drops of lavender oil to the pillow at night and inhale for good sleep.
•    Add a few drops of lavender oil in water and apply on the skin to remove irritants, dirt and dust.
2. Dried flowers
Used in sachets and as a decorative element in crafts.
3. Fresh flowers
Can be used in cooking, for making lavender-infused beverages or as a garnish.
4. Culinary
Dried lavender buds specifically meant for culinary use, are often used in baking or cooking to add a floral flavor.
5. Lavender tea
Made from dried lavender flowers, it is consumed for its calming effects and pleasant taste.
As we start to incorporate lavender into our lives, it remains a timeless and cherished companion in our journey towards health and relaxation. Let the delicate purple blooms of lavender remind us to pause, breathe deeply and embrace the simple yet profound joys of nature’s gifts.
MD Scholar Panchkarma,
Dayanand Ayurvedic College, Jalandhar.
Mob.: 9418891598  ritikasharma199821@gmail.com