multi-talented lavender
Lavender (Lavandula) is a genus of plants in the Lamiaceae family, best known for its aromatic flowers and versatile uses. Originally native to the Mediterranean, lavender is now cultivated in gardens and fields around the world. It is particularly known for its intense, calming scent, which is used in both the perfume industry and aromatherapy. The plant offers a variety of health benefits, including calming and stress-relieving properties. Lavender oil is often used for sleep disorders, anxiety, and even minor skin irritations.
Lavender is also used in the kitchen, especially in Mediterranean cuisine, where the flowers are used as a spice in dishes or desserts. In addition, lavender is often valued as an ornamental plant because it is also visually appealing with its purple flowers and silvery-green foliage. It thrives best in well-drained, sunny locations and is relatively easy to care for, but requires well-aerated soil to avoid disease.
In this blog post you will learn how lavender can support you in different areas of everyday life!
Lavender as a natural stress killer
Lavender has been valued for its calming properties for centuries. Science has now confirmed that the scent of lavender has a positive effect on the nervous system. A number of studies show that lavender oil can reduce cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is the so-called "stress hormone" that is released in increased amounts when stress or anxiety is ongoing. In the long term, high cortisol levels can lead to health problems such as sleep disorders, high blood pressure or a weakened immune system.
Lavender can make a huge difference here. Its scent has a calming effect on the brain, particularly the limbic system - the area of the brain responsible for emotions and stress - and helps reduce the production of cortisol. Some studies have even shown that the scent of lavender can help you sleep by reducing nervousness and promoting a deeper, more restful night's sleep.
The health benefits of lavender at a glance:
- Promotes relaxation: Lavender is known for its calming properties that can help reduce anxiety and nervousness.
- Helps with sleep disorders: Frequent use of lavender products can improve sleep by preparing the body for a restful night's sleep.
- Relieves headaches: The scent of lavender can also help relieve tension headaches or migraines.
- Supports the immune system: Lower cortisol levels mean less stress on the body, which in turn strengthens the immune system and promotes better overall health.
Lavender & Skin Care
Lavender has a number of positive effects on the skin, which are mainly explained by the anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and soothing properties of lavender essential oil. Here are the top 5 benefits:
- Soothing skin irritations: Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to soothe skin irritations such as redness, itching and inflammation. It is often used on sunburn, insect bites or other skin injuries to promote healing and soothe the skin.
- Antibacterial Effects: Lavender oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent skin infections and treat existing infections. It is therefore often used on acne and pimples to fight the bacteria that cause inflammation.
- Promotes skin regeneration: The soothing properties of lavender contribute to skin regeneration and can help scars or minor burns heal faster.
- Moisturizing and nourishing: Lavender also has moisturizing properties and can soften and supple dry, irritated skin. It helps protect the skin from drying out by supporting moisture balance.
- Anti-aging effects: Through its antioxidant properties, lavender helps protect the skin from harmful free radicals that can accelerate the aging process. It promotes skin elasticity and can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Lavender is contained in many skin care products, such as soaps, creams and serums, and is particularly suitable for sensitive skin or skin prone to inflammation. However, if there are open wounds, as is often the case with acute neurodermatitis attacks, we recommend switching to care products without essential oils as long as the symptoms persist.
Natural protection against insects!
Lavender is also a natural protection against moths and other pests that can infest clothing. The strong, pleasant scent acts as a deterrent to moths, mosquitoes and other pests that nest in textiles. The main ingredient in lavender that keeps insects away is linalool . Linalool is a terpene alcohol found in the essential oils of lavender flowers and gives off a characteristic floral scent. Lavender oil is therefore often used in natural insect repellents to keep unwanted insects away. Dried lavender flowers are also often placed in closets or under pillows to repel moths. Lavender can help prevent infestations of body lice, moth larvae and other insects by disrupting their sense of smell. Simply place bags of dried lavender flowers in closets and drawers or use lavender oil. This not only keeps clothes fresh, but also largely unharmed by pests.
lavender products
There are numerous products that contain the relaxing scent of lavender and can easily find a place in any home. In the Pegea Concept Store you will find two organic lavender brands from Thessaloniki. LAV , a small startup, and Lavender&SnailWorld , a small family business with its own fields. Here are some product examples from our store:
- Lavender candles: The scent of a burning lavender candle not only creates a cozy atmosphere, but also helps calm the mind. Especially in the evening, before going to bed, the scent of lavender can help reduce stress and prepare the body for a good night's rest.
- Lavender oil: Lavender essential oil is a true all-rounder. You can use it in a diffuser or add a few drops to a hot bath to relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation. A gentle massage with lavender oil can also help to relieve tension and put the body into a state of calm. In our store you can find lavender oil as a practical spray .
- Lavender sachets: Handmade lavender sachets made from organic lavender not only provide a wonderful scent for drawers and wardrobes, but can also help you fall asleep. Simply place them next to your pillow and enjoy the calming effects. Depending on the design, they also make the perfect gift. If they lose their smell over the years, simply knead them - they will smell like new.
- Lavender skincare: The soothing and anti-inflammatory properties of lavender oil help to relieve skin irritations, reduce inflammation and promote healing. Products containing lavender oil are particularly suitable for sensitive, dry or blemish-prone skin. In combination with snail slime, they also act as true anti-aging boosters. The Lavender&SnailWorld skincare range offers creams, soaps and a serum with this effective combination of ingredients.
Conclusion
Lavender is a true all-rounder when it comes to promoting physical and mental well-being. By using products with a lavender scent, you can not only lower cortisol levels and thus reduce stress and nervousness, but also create a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere. Whether through candles, teas, essential oils or sachets - the calming scent of lavender is a gentle and effective way to increase your daily well-being and promote a healthy balance.
So take time for yourself and treat yourself to a little break with lavender on a regular basis – your body and mind will thank you!
Find all our lavender products – Here!
