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By Angela D'Souza

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The colour of the lavender flower. While purple is the colour of royalty and pink is the colour of youth, it represents refinement, grace, and elegance. Lavender holds a sacred place in nature, and with its violet flowers is often considered the most delicate and precious.

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One of the most distinguishing characteristics of lavender is its fragrance. While the most commonly sold and planted varieties have pleasing aromas, some are particularly strong, whereas some species of lavender have strong fragrances that aren't pleasing.

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Lavender blooms sit on spikes that grow taller than the foliage.

Lavender (genus Lavandula) decorates landscapes and nursery lots as a favorite plant of many due to its fragrance. While it's commonly known for its fragrance, lavender also is a common cooking herb. All species prefer a full-sun location with a rich, well-draining soil amended with organic matter, and most grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 5 through 8, although a few variances occur within the different species.

Common Species

Although lavender is a fairly common subshrub, herb or focal point in many landscapes, several species with almost countless subspecies and cultivars exist. True lavender, sometimes called English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) grows in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 8. The species grows to approximately 3 feet by 6 feet, although several cultivars are dwarfs reaching only 1 or 2 feet tall. French lavender (Lavandula dentata), hardy in USDA zones 8 through 11, and its cultivars are actually from Spain. Spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia) and its cultivars are other common lavenders. Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas) is hardy in USDA zones 8 and 9.

One of the most distinguishing characteristics of lavender is its fragrance. While the most commonly sold and planted varieties have pleasing aromas, some particularly strong, some species of lavender have strong fragrances that aren't pleasing. Those with pleasing aromas commonly are dried for use as potpourri or in sachets, or their oils are used on the body. English lavender, for example, is sweetly scented and ideal for potpourris and even as flavoring for teas, rubs or pastries. Lavandula intermedia, a hybrid between Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula latifolia, is a favorite for perfume makers.

Lavender commonly describes any shade of light, baby purple or light purplish-blue, and many of the flowers of lavender plants display this type of color. Some cultivars, however, have blooms that are white, pink, blue or darker purple. White Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas "Alba"), for example, has white to pale purple flowers. "Hidcote" English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia "Hidcote") is a dwarf variety with rich, dark purple blooms. "Jean Davis" (Lavandula angustifolia "Jean Davis") is an example of a pink-blooming plant.

Almost as distinct as its flowers, lavender's foliage is another feature favored by farmers and homeowners. Most species and cultivars have silvery-gray foliage that contrasts nicely against the lavender-blue flowers -- or other colors of flowers. Most species form tight clumping mounds of foliage topped by the colorful, fragrant spikes of flowers that tower slightly above the misty foliage.

About the Author

With a professional background in gardening, landscapes, pests and natural ecosystems, Jasey Kelly has been sharing her knowledge through writing since 2009 and has served as an expert writer in these fields. Kelly's background also includes childcare, and animal rescue and care.

Photo Credits

Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

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Lavender (genus Lavandula) decorates landscapes and nursery lots as a favorite plant of many due to its fragrance. While it's commonly known for its fragrance, lavender also is a common cooking herb. All species prefer a full-sun location with a rich, well-draining soil amended with organic matter, and most grow ...

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Lavender is a member of the mint family and is close to rosemary, sage and thyme. It is best used with fennel, oregano, rosemary, thyme, sage and savory. English Lavender has the sweetest fragrance of all the lavenders and is the one most commonly used in cooking.

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Lavender is a versatile herb that you can use in both sweet and savory dishes. Along with being floral and sweet, lavender is a flavour that is often described with terms like 'herbal' and 'earthy'. When it comes to savory preparations, lavender is a herb that brings out flavour.

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1.     Growth Tips

2.     Give the plants 6 hours or more of full sun each day.

3.     Apply very little water.

4.     Grow in well-drained areas or raised beds.

5.     If your soil is sandy, mix in some gravel to improve drainage.

6.     Make sure you have good air flow around the plants if you have high humidity.

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When Debbie McDowell and her husband, Jim, moved from Houston to 23 acres of rolling farmland in Texas bluebonnet country, they decided to do something special. The couple did their research and started planting lavender, an aromatic herb not often found on Texas farms. The flowers, they realized, wouldn't just be beautiful. The oil from the plants could also be put to a variety of uses.

Edler von Rabenstein/Shutterstock

"Lavender is a natural antiseptic and can be used on burns, insect bites, cuts and other skin irritations," Debbie says. "And of the course the camphor in the oil is great for stress, sleep, headaches, tension and so many other applications."

After experimenting with a few plants in their first season, the McDowells began setting out groups of 600 plants. "Then we increased each new field to 1,500 plants," Debbie says.

"Over time, we have learned how to manage this plant that is not native to our Texas climate. We've had lots of ups and downs, but we're pleased to be able to produce a plant that most Texans don't usually have an opportunity to experience."

That was 12 years ago. Today Chappell Hill Lavender Farm in Brenham, Texas, has 4 acres dedicated to some 4,000 lavender plants. Other land is planted with herbs, berries and fruit trees.

"Maintenance is always an issue for the lavender," Debbie adds, "so at this time, we don't plan to expand past 4 acres."

Lavender, she says, needs a dry, arid climate-"Certainly not what we have here in Texas!"

While the plants grow best with about 15 inches of rain a year, the farm gets around 39 inches in a normal year. Humidity is also a problem, since lavender can't tolerate a lot of moisture in the soil or air. The McDowells compensate for the climate by planting two varieties, 'Sweet' and 'Provence,' both well-suited to their growing conditions. "They are considered hybrids and can withstand our heat and humidity better."

From mid-April into June, the flowers of 'Sweet' lavender open at Chappell Hill Farm. 'Provence' blooms from late July through October, keeping the fragrant flower show going.

Each mature plant yields 300 to 400 stems during the blooming season. The McDowells sell bundles of the perfumed flowers or turn the oil from the plants into soaps, lotions, shampoos for pets, teas, coffees and more.

Other, shorter-stemmed varieties aren't as good for bundling, Debbie says, but make great specimen plants. She says ornamental varieties like Spanish lavender, 'Fern Leaf,' and 'Goodwin Creek' do well in Texas, although she and Jim don't grow them.

The farm's lavender fields are planted each spring and fall. November is a good time to plant, Debbie says, when "the hot weather is over, but it's not too cold, so the plants can get acclimated before the actual winter arrives." Springtime is a bit trickier. By April, the temperatures are rising and there may be too much rain.

"Lavender is actually easy to grow, if you follow some guidelines."

Debbie's Lavender Plant Growing Tips

1. Give the plants 6 hours or more of full sun each day.

2. Apply very little water. Most people overwater.

3. Grow in well-drained areas or raised beds. If you have heavy or clay soil, grow lavender in pots.

4. If your soil is sandy, mix in some gravel to improve drainage.

5. Make sure you have good air flow around the plants if you have high humidity.

6. Don't mulch or use any topping that will bring moisture to the plants. "It is best to use small pea gravel on top of the soil."

7. Don't use a sprinkler system.

8. Plant lavender with other drought-tolerant plants.

9. Don't fertilize; it's not necessary.

10. Prune back the plants in the late fall.

When choosing your plants, keep in mind that lavender is native to the Mediterranean, where the winters are cool and moist and the summers are hot and dry.

If you garden in the north, look for cold-tolerant varieties or grow in containers you can bring indoors for the winter. Provide plenty of light while the plants are inside.

In the humid South, try Spanish lavender, also sometimes called French or butterfly lavender. Give the plants good air circulation to help avoid disease.

Editor's Note: This article is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a professional healthcare provider before trying any form of therapy or if you have any questions or concerns about a medical condition. The use of natural products can be toxic if misused, and even when suitably used, certain individuals could have adverse reactions.

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When Debbie McDowell and her husband, Jim, moved from Houston to 23 acres of rolling farmland in Texas bluebonnet country, they decided to do something special. The couple did their research and started planting lavender, an aromatic herb not often found on Texas farms. The flowers, they realized, wouldn't just be beautiful.

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Health Benefits

Reduce anxiety and emotional stress

Protect against diabetes symptoms

Improve brain function

Help to heal burns and wounds

Improve sleep

Restore skin complexion and reduce acne

Slow aging with powerful antioxidants

Relieve pain

Alleviate headaches

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Lavender essential oil is the most used essential oil in the world today, but the benefits of lavender were actually discovered over 2,500 years ago. Because of its powerful antioxidant, antimicrobial, sedative, calming and antidepressive properties, lavender oil benefits abound and it's been used both cosmetically and therapeutically for centuries. ( 1)

The Egyptians used lavender for mummification and as a perfume. In fact, when King Tut's tomb was opened in 1923, there was said to be a faint scent of lavender that could still be detected after 3,000 years.

Early and modern aromatherapy texts advocate for lavender's use as an antibacterial essential oil. The leaves and stems of the plant were used to prepare decoctions against digestive system diseases and rheumatism, and lavender was valued for its cosmetic purposes. The Romans used lavender oil for bathing, cooking and purifying the air. And in the Bible, lavender oil was among the aromatics used for anointing and healing. ( 2)

Today, lavender oil benefits for your body include the following:

Reduce anxiety and emotional stress

Protect against diabetes symptoms

Improve brain function

Help to heal burns and wounds

Improve sleep

Restore skin complexion and reduce acne

Slow aging with powerful antioxidants

Relieve pain

Alleviate headaches

Because lavender oil contains such versatile properties and is gentle enough to apply directly to the skin, I consider it a must-have oil, especially if you are just getting started with using essential oils for your health. Science has only recently started to evaluate the range of health benefits that lavender essential oil contains, but there's already an abundance of evidence that points out the amazing capabilities of this oil. ( 3)

Today, lavender is one of the most popular essential oils in the world. And for good reason. People are beginning to catch on to lavender oil benefits, for your body as well as your home.

10 Lavender Oil Benefits and Studies
1. Antioxidant Protection
Free radicals, like toxins, chemicals and pollutants, are arguably the most dangerous and most common risk factor for every disease that affects Americans today. Free radicals are responsible for shutting down your immune system and can cause unbelievable damage to your body.

The body's natural response to free radical damage is to create antioxidant enzymes - especially glutathione, catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) - that prevent these free radicals from doing their damage. Unfortunately, your body can actually become deficient in antioxidants if the free radical burden is great enough, which has become relatively common in the U.S. because of poor diet and high exposure to toxins.

Thankfully, lavender essential oil is a natural antioxidant that works to prevent and reverse disease. A 2013 study published in Phytomedicine found that lavender oil increased the activity of the body's most powerful antioxidants - glutathione, catalase and SOD. And more recent studies have indicated similar results, concluding that lavender has antioxidant activity and helps to prevent or reverse oxidative stress. ( 4, 5)
2. Diabetes Natural Treatment
In 2014, scientists from Tunisia set out to complete a fascinating task: to test the effects of lavender essential oil on blood sugar to see if it can help reverse diabetes naturally.

Increased blood glucose (the hallmark of diabetes)

Metabolic disorders (especially fat metabolism)

Weight gain

Liver and kidney antioxidant depletion

Liver and kidney dysfunction

Liver and kidney lipoperoxidation (when free radicals "steal" necessary fat molecules from cell membranes)

Although more research is needed to understand the full capacity of lavender oil for the prevention or reversal of diabetes, the results of this study are promising and indicate the therapeutic potential of lavender. To use lavender oil for diabetes, apply it topically to your neck and chest, diffuse it at home or supplement with it for the health benefits.
3. Improves Mood and Reduces Stress
In recent years, lavender oil has been put on a pedestal for its unique ability to protect against neurological damage. Traditionally, lavender has been used to treat neurological issues like migraines, stress, anxiety and depression, so it's exciting to see that the research is finally catching up to history.

In 2013, an evidence-based study published by the International Journal of Psychiatry in Clinical Practice found that supplementing with 80 milligram capsules of lavender essential oil alleviates anxiety, sleep disturbance and depression. Additionally, in the study there were no adverse side effects, drug interactions or withdrawal symptoms from using lavender oil. ( 7)

The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology published a human study in 2014 that revealed that Silexan (otherwise known as lavender oil preparation) was more effective against generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) than placebos and the prescription medicine paroxetine. After treatment, the study found zero instances of withdrawal symptoms or adverse side effects. ( 8)

To relieve stress and improve sleep, put a diffuser by your bed and diffuse oils while you sleep at night or in the family room while you're reading or winding down in the evening. You can also apply lavender oil topically behind your ears for the same benefits.
4. Supports Brain Function
The neurological benefits of lavender essential oil don't stop at its ability to treat depression and boost mood. Research also shows that lavender oil serves as a natural treatment for Alzheimer's disease! Studies conducted on rats show that inhaling lavender essential oil vapor can help to prevent brain oxidative stress and improve cognitive impairment. ( 11, 12)

Also in 2012, the Swiss journal Molecules printed the results of a study that shockingly proved that lavender oil is a viable treatment option for neurological dysfunctions such as stroke. Researchers believe that lavender's neuroprotective effects are due to its antioxidant properties. ( 13)

To support the nervous system with lavender oil, diffuse it at home, inhale it directly from the bottle or apply it topically to the temples and back of neck.
5. Heals Burns and Cuts
Widely known for its antimicrobial properties, for centuries lavender oil has been used to prevent various infections and combat bacterial and fungal disorders. In fact, almost 100 studies have been conducted establishing this benefit of lavender over and over again. Research shows that lavender oil speeds the healing of burns, cuts, scrapes and wounds - and a big part of this is because of its antimicrobial compounds.

A study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine evaluated how lavender's antimicrobial ability is enhanced when it's blended with other essential oils, like clove, cinnamon and tea tree oil. Researchers found that a 1:1 ratio of these oils was found to be the most effective in fighting against Candida albicans and Staph aureus - two common causes of many fungal and bacterial infections that lead to respiratory pneumonia and skin funguses. ( 14)

A 2016 study conducted on rats found that lavender oil promoted wound healing in the early phase by accelerating the formation of granulation tissue (tissue from the healing surface of the skin) and promoting collagen synthesis. The area of wounds treated with lavender oil was significantly decreased compared to the control group. ( 15)

For burn relief and to heal cuts, scrapes or wounds, mix 3-5 drops of lavender oil with ½ teaspoon of coconut oil and apply the mixture to the area of concern. You can use your fingers or a clean cotton ball.
6. Promotes Healthy Skin and Hair
Most likely due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant characteristics, lavender essential mixed with a carrier oil (like coconut, jojoba or grapeseed oil) has profound benefits on your skin.

Using lavender oil topically can help to improve a number of skin conditions, from canker sores to allergic reactions, acne and age spots. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help to ease skin conditions and reverse signs of aging. ( 16)
7. Relieves Headaches
To use lavender oil for skin health, combine 3-4 drops with ½ teaspoon of coconut or jojoba oil and massage the mixture into the area of concern. You can also add lavender oil to your face or body wash. I also recommend mixing lavender oil with frankincense essential oil and applying it to your skin first thing in the morning, right after you shower, and right before bed. This will help to reduce inflammation and signs of aging, like dark spots.

If you are one of the millions of people struggling with tension or migraine headaches, lavender oil may just be the natural remedy you've been looking for. It's one of the best essential oils for headaches because it induces relaxation and relieves tension. It works as a sedative, anti-anxiety, anticonvulsant and calming agent.

According to a study published in European Neurology, people struggling with migraine headaches saw a significant reduction in pain when they inhaled lavender oil for 15 minutes. The difference between the control group and lavender oil treatment group was statistically significant. Of the 129 headache attack cases, 92 responded entirely or partially to lavender. ( 18)
8. Improves Sleep and Insomnia
I have found that one of the most effective natural headache remedies is combing two drops each of lavender oil with peppermint oil and rubbing the mixture into the back of the neck and the temples. Diffusing lavender or inhaling it directly from the bottle can also help to relieve headaches.

Because of lavender oil's sedative and calming properties, it works to improve sleep and treat insomnia. A 2015 study involving 158 mothers in their postpartum period were divided into the control or intervention group. The intervention group inhaled lavender oil before bed four times a week for eight weeks. The women using lavender oil displayed a significant improvement in sleep quality when compared to the control group. ( 19)

To improve your quality of sleep, diffuse lavender oil in your bedroom before or during sleep. Also, you can rub 3-5 drops directly on your neck, chest and temples. Taking a healing bath by adding 15 drops of lavender oil and 1 cup of Epsom salts to the bathtub is another effective way to use lavender oil to improve sleep and relax the body.
9. Relieves Pain
And I have also found that making a mixture of lavender oil, Roman chamomile essential oil and magnesium oil is the best combination for improving sleep. Just rub this mixture into the back of your neck and wrists to induce a calm, peaceful feeling.

Several studies have found that lavender oil helps as a natural painkiller. Simply rubbing lavender into the area of concern can reduce inflammation and pain intensity, helping to alleviate the symptoms of many health conditions.

A 2015 study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine indicates that topical application of lavender oil decreases moderate intensities of pain during the insertion of dialysis needles. Researchers point out that lavender may be an option to reduce the pain of inserting dialysis needles, which causes constant fear and anxiety for many hemodialysis patients. ( 21)
10. Complementary Therapy for Cancer
Another study, published in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, found that a combination of lavender, marjoram, peppermint and black pepper essential oils improved neck pain when applied to the affected area daily. ( 22)

A 2012 study published in the African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines shows that aromatherapy, particularly using lavender oil, helps patients with cancer cope with stress, nausea, chronic pain and depression. Because lavender oil works to stimulate the immune system, boost mood, improve sleep and fight stress, it can be used as a therapeutic agent. ( 24)

Massaging lavender oil into the back of your neck, chest, wrists and temples can induce relaxing and calming effects. If you are experiencing muscle or joint pain, or pain at the site of injections, apply 2-3 drops of lavender to the affected area.

To relieve stress and anxiety, and improve sleep, diffuse lavender or inhale it directly from the bottle. This can be particularly useful before and after surgical procedures and chemotherapy treatment.
Natural Perfume
Lavender Oil Uses at Home

Do you want to smell good without using toxic perfumes? Lavender oil is a great scent for both women and men. You can either try adding pure oil directly to your skin, or you can dilute oil in water or with a carrier oil for a more subtle scent.

If you'd like to rub the oil right onto your skin, try adding 2-3 drops into your palms and then rubbing your hands together. Then rub the oil directly onto your skin or hair. You can also try using 2 drops of lavender oil added to a spray bottle with about ½ cup of water. Shake up the spray bottle and then spray whatever you'd like.
Non-toxic Air Freshener
Consider combining lavender oil with other relaxing oils, like cedarwood essential oil or frankincense essential oil. My Homemade Lotion includes lavender, frankincense and peppermints oils, which smell great together and help to reduce inflammation and improve the health of your skin. Another great way to use lavender oil as a natural perfume is to add it to your shampoo or create your own, like I did with this Homemade Coconut Lavender Shampoo.

The same way you use lavender oil as a perfume, you can use it around your home as a natural, toxic-free air freshener. Either spray lavender oil around your home or try diffusing it. To create a relaxing atmosphere in your bedroom before you fall asleep, try spraying the lavender oil and water mixture directly onto your bed sheets or pillow.
Natural, Chemical-Free Lip Balm
You can try the same method in your bathroom as well, and also on your bath towels. Before taking a relaxing bath or shower, spray your towel with lavender oil so its calming scent is waiting for you when you step out of the shower.

Lavender oil is excellent for preventing sunburns on the lips and also healing chapped, dried lips. Try adding a couple of drops of oil to shea butter, jojoba oil, coconut oil or another "carrier oil" and then rubbing it into your lips for protection whenever you will be in the sun. If you have a sunburn in other areas on your body, try using the same method to heal the skin more quickly and prevent itchiness and pealing that can result after a bad sun burn.
Remedy for Stomach Discomfort
My Homemade Lavender Mint Lip Balm is nourishing and hydrates dry, cracked lips quickly.
Secret Flavor Booster in Healthy Recipes
Many people find the scent of lavender to be soothing to the stomach. If you are feeling nauseous, or know that you are going to be traveling in a car of plane and are prone to motion sickness, spray some lavender oil on your skin and clothes, or rub it into your temples, next and palms.

Lavender is a great flavor enhancer in things like grain-free muffins, teas and even salad dressings. Lavender oil is completely edible, but you will want to use a very small amount since the taste is very powerful. You'll also want to purchase only a high-quality, 100 percent pure grade oil from a reputable company.

Try adding 1-2 drops to your recipes for a surprising flavor booster. Lavender is said to pair perfectly with things like dark cocoa, pure honey, lemon, cranberries, balsamic vinaigrette, black pepper and apples. Try my Vegan Lemon Lavender Donuts that are made with gluten-free chickpea flour.

Where to Buy Lavender Oil

When buying lavender essential oil, make sure you are buying from a high-quality brand that is therapeutic grade and that is organic, so it hasn't been sprayed with chemicals. This is especially important if you are planning to ingest lavender oil or use it topically.

If you are curious about blending lavender with other beneficial oils, check out my free Essential Oils Guide for ideas.

Lavender Oil Side Effects and Precautions

For most people, lavender oil benefits are all that you'll experience and using lavender oil is completely safe; however, there has not been an extensive amount of scientific research done on lavender oil interactions with other medications, or for its use in pregnant women, so there are certain situations where you will want to use caution.

Medication Interactions: If you are already taking any prescription medication for sleep-related disorders or for depression, be cautious of the fact that lavender can increase the effectiveness of these medications. Even if you use an over-the-counter sleep aid or any type of sedatives (even cough or flu medicine), keep in mind that lavender makes many people sleepy and even somewhat drowsy, so it's best to not combine lavender oil with other medications or sleep-related supplements. If you are planning on undergoing anesthesia in the near future, you will also want to avoid using lavender oil.

Pregnant Women:Lavender oil is generally considered safe for women who are pregnant and nursing. Because it can have a relaxing effect on muscles and can also effect hormone levels, use lavender with caution in your third trimester. It's best to speak with your doctor about use of any essential oils when pregnant, since it has not been guaranteed that these are safe at this time. (24)

Children: Lavender oil is considered generally safe for children to use, although there is some concern that lavender's effect on hormone levels could be harmful for boys who have not yet gone through puberty. Although there isn't strong evidence for lavender being a hormone disrupter (only 1-2 very small studies were ever completed), parents are told to use caution if using lavender oil frequently on young children.

Ingesting Lavender Oil: Studies have primarily looked at the effects of using lavender oil topically on the skin or through inhalation. There have been no negative symptoms found when three drops of oil are mixed with a carrier oil and applied directly to the skin. A 2013 evidence-based article, however, highlighted that lavender can be ingested at a large dose of 80 to 160 milligrams without adverse effects, except for minor gastrointestinal symptoms. To avoid gastrointestinal irritation, keep internal use to a minimum and be careful if you have a sensitive digestive system. (7) There are no known food interactions of lavender oil at this time.

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10 Lavender Oil Benefits for Major Diseases & Minor Ailments - Dr. Axe

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Lavender essential oil is the most used essential oil in the world today, but the benefits of lavender were actually discovered over 2,500 years ago. Because of its powerful antioxidant, antimicrobial, sedative, calming and antidepressive properties, lavender oil benefits abound and it's been used both cosmetically and therapeutically for centuries.

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Lavender oil is believed to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to heal minor burns and bug bites. Research suggests that it may be useful for treating anxiety, insomnia, depression and restlessness. Many of these medicinal uses include anti-fungal, antidepressant, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antispasmodic and analgesic treatments.