Describe the main medicinal properties of lavender. Lavender: useful and medicinal properties, contraindications. Cooking applications

Glass and glass products 23.07.2020

Glass and glass products

Lavender Are flowers of exquisite beauty. The tenderness of their lilac charm leaves few people indifferent. However, not everyone knows how valuable this flower is as treatment plant- its composition, properties and effects on the human body are simply incredible. Knowledge of the beneficial qualities and contraindications of lavender can be of great benefit to a person.

What does lavender look like and where does it grow?

Today the world knows about 47 different types this flower. Of course, their main difference lies in the shades of color of the petals and in the size of the inflorescences.

In nature, lavender prefers to grow closer to mountains, on elevated plateaus and plains remote from humans. The first flowers were discovered in countries and parts of the world such as Africa, Australia, India, Arabia, southern Europe and the Canary Islands. Today, lavender is grown in almost the entire civilized world.

The standard flower height varies between 53-60 cm. However, there have been isolated cases of plant growth up to two meters in height, most likely the reason for this was the volcanic soil rich in microelements. Lavender is a very tenacious and unpretentious plant and is extremely rich in all kinds of trace elements and vitamins.

Since ancient times, this wonderful plant is attributed extraordinary properties... Monks and saints believed that the scent of lavender flowers expels all evil, and therefore, its inflorescences were adorned with children's cradles, the bed of spouses, the beds of the mentally ill.

Flowers were also brought to temples and cemeteries - their aroma really has a positive effect on a person, calming and stabilizing activities nervous system.

Healers and herbalists of all times also actively use lavender in medicinal purposes... With the knowledge, benefits can be derived from the entire plant — roots, stems, inflorescences, and seeds.

Traditional medicine doctors add a flower to many collections, in addition, an ointment against burns and healing infusions are prepared from lavender. But that's not all - in the old days the plant was used for ... washing and washing! Its very name comes from the root "lava" which means to wash, foam ...

Today, lavender is actively used both in the pharmaceutical industry and in the cosmetic industries. Almost every developed country grows entire plantations of these beautiful flowers. Extracts and extracts of the plant are part of many medicinal and prophylactic preparations, and are also added to the best shampoos, creams, soaps and perfumes ...

The chemical composition of lavender

Lavender is an evergreen plant of the Lamiaceae family. The chemical composition of this flower is, without exaggeration, unique, the main reason for this, as experts tend to believe, is the environment of natural plant growth - plains and steppes near the mountains, where practically untouched nature and the soil is rich in microelements.

An exclusive feature of the flower is the content of essential oils in all parts of the plant:

In inflorescences about 1%.
The leaves contain 0.38-0.40%.
In stems 0.20%.
In the rhizomes 0.09%.

Lavender essential oil contains such rare and important elements as I-linalol alcohol, hexynylbutyol, nerol, amyl alcohol, citral and lavandulol, cineole, a-cypen, camphene, a-fellandrene, bisabolene, zedren, a- and b-caryophyllene ...

Besides essential oil plants contain a number of rare acids: acetic, butyric, valeric and the rarest nylon. But that's not all - lavender essential oil is rich in cinnamic and valerian aldehydes, which have such a beneficial effect on the central nervous system.

Lavender flower petals contain herniarin, coumarin, and ursular acid. Only 100 gr. Lavender contains 287 IU of pure vitamin A, as well as 215-220 mg of natural, easily digestible calcium and 2 mg of iron.

Due to the similar saturation of the plant with trace elements and vitamins, lavender should be prescribed and applied with extreme caution, in small doses, because an overdose of any substance, as you know, often leads to sad consequences.

First of all, lavender essential oil and plant flowers are used for sleep problems, as well as for relieving depressive conditions. Lavender-based drugs and medicines cause the human body to produce hormones, including endorphins, known as the hormone of happiness.

In addition, it has been proven that lavender has a beneficial effect on the state of the human digestive tract - it relieves the feeling of nausea, reduces gas formation in the intestines and prevents diarrhea, relieves colic both in the stomach and throughout the gastrointestinal tract.

It is not surprising that remedies based on this plant are recommended for peptic ulcer disease, some gastritis, excessively active intestinal motility.

Lavender-based ointments, washing with infusion and lotions have an extremely positive effect if you have skin problems:

Psoriasis.
Eczema.
Acne.
Irritation from insect bites.
Allergy.
Burns.
Dermatitis.

In the struggle for healthy and clean skin, lavender essential oil is also used. You should not apply pure oil to the entire wound - healers and doctors recommend dropping a little oil on a gauze bandage and after waiting a minute until it dissolves along the fibers, apply it to the problem area of the skin.

Decoctions and infusions of lavender, as well as shampoos and masks based on the essential oil of the plant have an incredible effect on the condition of the hair.

Regular massaging of balms or oils with lavender ether (light massaging movements) stimulates the awakening and healing of hair follicles, which improves hair growth. Lavender-based products are successfully used for autoimmune diseases (alopecia) that cause focal lesions and hair loss.

Finally, the direct tonic, revitalizing effect of ointments, lotions, oils and creams containing lavender is recommended by the sports association as a natural pain reliever after exercise.

Rubbing in products based on this plant during massage relieves pain and spasms not only after active training, but also accompanying rheumatism, joint diseases, sprains and postoperative syndromes (pain).

Why lavender is considered so unique and beneficial

The composition of this delightful flower, as mentioned above, is incredibly rich and includes quite rare trace elements, acids, etc.

But the question is, what effect do each of these components have on our human body until recently. Fortunately, with the development of progress, scientists were able to study the plant and explain the reason for its such beneficial effect.

Valeric acid is widely used in modern pharmacology. It is part of such drugs as validol, sleeping pills, bromural and many pain relievers.
Ursular acid - dissolves fat deposits, helps cleanse veins from plaques, lowers blood sugar (glucose) levels, lowers the percentage of cholesterol and triglycerides in the body. It has also proven to be beneficial in the presence of muscle atrophy.
Nylon acid has an anti-inflammatory and hemostatic effect.
Cineol is the strongest natural antiseptic, and its use also has an expectorant effect.
Tannin, borneol, garaniol - have slightly different, but anti-toxic effects. These substances are found in some antidotes. In addition, tannin is known for its antidiarrheal effect (strengthens the stool).
Nerol - promotes the rapid, easy and effective penetration of substances through the skin and intercellular membranes.
Amyl alcohol promotes the formation of esters and compounds that would be impossible without its participation in the synthesis.
Citral is known to scientists for its reactionary action, in other words, the formula of a substance is such that it interacts with almost all media and other substances (this stimulates the best, more powerful effect of all other components).

Contraindications to the use of lavender

The plant has no obvious contraindications, but it should be remembered that it is unique in terms of the amount of active substances in its composition. And any overdose will undoubtedly have a side effect.

This may include dizziness, nausea, weakness, sweating, cramps or chills, poisoning, heart palpitations, or cold sensations. Therefore, you should not be guided by the principle the more the more effective, strictly observe the dosages.

In addition, no one can rule out the possible likelihood of an allergic reaction (individual intolerance to certain components).

Decoctions, tea, infusions and tinctures, ointments and oil balms are made from various parts of the plant. In principle, there is nothing complicated in the technology of processing a plant. The only thing we strongly recommend, before using any traditional medicine, is to undergo examination and consultation with your doctor.

The most common uses of the plant are lavender tea and infusions. Both are prepared quickly and easily. Boil water and prepare a kettle or thermos. Dishes should be either made of clay (porcelain, faience, etc.) or glass, you cannot use iron and plastic. For tea, take a teaspoon of your usual tea leaves and a teaspoon of lavender inflorescences for 2-3 cups of boiling water, let it brew for 8-10 minutes and you can drink, preferably with honey or dates.
For the infusion, take more lavender, at the rate of two teaspoons of herbs and flowers per glass, insist, covering (not corking!) For two hours, then drink half a glass, or use it to wash the affected tissues. Tea has a sedative, calming effect, and the infusion is stronger and has an expectorant, bactericidal and regenerating (wound healing) effect. In addition, taking two tablespoons of the infusion every morning reduces intracranial pressure.
Rinsing warm water, to which either natural lavender oil or lavender decoction are added, it is recommended in the presence of: bronchospasm, with hoarseness, sore throat.
With neurasthenia, hysteria, insomnia, sluggish current infectious (including chronic) diseases, sharp pains in the head, as well as with asthma and bronchitis, healers recommend drinking lavender decoction. It is prepared as follows: A liter of hot clean water is poured into a dish (again, not iron or plastic!), Adding 50 grams of crushed dried plant (flowers, stems, rhizomes), put on a slow fire and warm, bringing to the brink of a boil (you can warm it on water bath), no need to cook - it is necessary to warm up to 90-95 ° C. Then, after removing from the heat, wait until the temperature drops to 38-43 degrees, and strain the broth by pouring it into a dark glass container (opaque). Take the broth with food, one teaspoon 2-3 times a day for a week or two until the condition improves.
A decoction of lavender also helps with amenorrhea, cystitis, rashes and dermatitis. For the prevention and treatment of these diseases, it is recommended to prepare a stronger broth, using up to 150 grams. herbs and flowers of dried lavender. In advance, you need to prepare a bathtub, half filled with warm water, strain the broth infused into the water until it cools down at 35-45 ° C and stir, undressing, immerse in water for 10-15 minutes.
To improve hair growth and their general condition, as well as for massage, lavender oil is prepared. To do this, take natural, pure olive oil and dark glassware. The crushed grass and inflorescences (can be together with the roots) of dried lavender are tightly laid in a container, filled to the top - filled with oil, corked and left in a cool dry place (cellar, refrigerator) for 40 days. The oil will draw out the extracts from the plant and will be very useful not only for the diseases listed above, but also for lichen, burns, head lice (lice), for rheumatoid pains and pain in the joints (you need to rub in with massaging movements).

Lavender essential oil has long been prized for its anesthetic, healing and soothing properties. Today it is often used in perfumery, medicinal purposes, in cosmetology for hair care and solving the problems of hypersensitive and damaged skin.

Lavender essential oil is extracted from flowers and herbs of the same name by steam distillation. The content of essential oil in them reaches thirty percent.

Lavender oil is considered elite, has practically no color, has a light texture, sweetish and tart aroma, with a bitter taste. It contains limonene, aldehyde, tannins, linalyl acetate, coumarin, valerian and butyric acids.

Properties and uses of lavender essential oil

Lavender has an anticonvulsant, antiviral, bactericidal, antiseptic, healing effect, has antispasmodic, regenerating, diuretic, analgesic, sedative properties, improves the functioning of the heart muscle and blood circulation in the brain, helps to lower blood pressure.

The antiviral activity of lavender oil allows its use in therapy and prevention. infectious diseases(flu), laryngitis, pneumonia, rhinitis, it increases the body's immune defenses, calms the nervous system, relieves tension, relaxes, restores the energy aura, normalizes sleep.

The essential oil solution stimulates the healing process of wounds and skin damage, in most cases leaving no scarring on the skin. Also, lavender improves the functions of the digestive system (increases appetite, normalizes the acidity of the stomach), liver and gallbladder function, restores the menstrual cycle, eases conditions in menopause.

It is recommended to take lavender essential oil mixed with alcohol for heart palpitations and cardiovascular diseases, severe headache, pyelonephritis, attacks of rheumatism, with stress and increased irritability, neurasthenia, urolithiasis, neuralgia, paralysis.

An open bottle of essential oil at the head of the bed, left for fifteen minutes, will make your sleep restful and sound, strengthen the nervous system.

A bath with the addition of lavender oil stimulates blood circulation to the skin, helps with joint inflammation. It is often used as a wound healing agent for skin diseases, various bruises and dislocations.

Lavender oil is an excellent aid in the treatment of purulent wounds, eczema, acne, fungal diseases, burns, various dermatoses and other neuroendocrine diseases.

When applied to the skin, it improves microcirculation, relieves swelling, fights inflammation, irritation, redness of the skin, eliminates itching and flaking, serves as an excellent means of cleansing and rejuvenating the skin, therefore it is effectively used in cosmetology.

The oil has also found its use in hair care, it has a deodorizing effect on the scalp, fights dandruff.

Aromatherapy with lavender oil will be a good protection against insects (moths, mosquitoes), will have a stimulating effect on mental activity, the emotional sphere, and will help to focus attention.

Lavender essential oil application in cosmetology

Lavender is ideal for treating young, problematic, sensitive, tired, flabby and damaged skin. It exhibits cleansing, toning, refreshing, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, eliminating rashes, drying acne, normalizing the secretion of sebum and metabolic processes in the skin.

Regular use of the oil in skin care will be an excellent prevention of pigmentation, the formation of scars and scars after acne (post-acne) and blackheads.

Contraindications to the use of lavender oil

After an abortion (not earlier than the first three months).
Pregnancy.
Anemia.
Taking iodine-containing and iron-containing drugs.
Individual intolerance.
People prone to low blood pressure.

Before using the oil, an allergic test should be carried out for allergic reactions.

The medicinal properties of lavender were known to the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. Infusions and essential oils were recommended for women to drink to conceive and increase fertility after prolonged wars. In the distant medieval times, it was a herb "for all occasions": it was used to treat infectious infections, liver and spleen diseases, wounds, ulcers, burns, venereal diseases, spasms, convulsions, heart pains, nervous disorders, migraines, gout, rheumatism. Of course, famous French perfumers could not do without lavender.

Features of the medicinal plant lavender

What benefits does lavender bring to our body? How to properly procure raw materials? For what diseases is this herb prescribed? Are there any contraindications to taking it?

Area

Narrow-leaved lavender (it is spikelet, spikelet, real) is found in the wild in the mountainous western regions of the Mediterranean, as well as in the Caucasus. The plant is very popular, therefore it is naturalized, that is, it is grown outside the usual range. Often, an ornamental plant "migrates" from gardens, plantations and runs wild. Lavender is grown as an essential oil plant in North Africa, North America, everywhere in Europe, Crimea, Moldova, Central Asian countries, Kuban, along the Black Sea coast.

Botanical description

Narrow-leaved lavender. Botanical illustration from the book "Köhler's Medizinal-Pflanzen", 1887.

Evergreen dwarf shrub up to 75 cm high. Differs in numerous, branched stems. The plant is easily identified by its strong spicy smell. The lavender flower is a whorl that forms an intermittent spikelet. Each whorl has 6 to 10 purple flowers. The shrub blooms from June to August, depending on climatic conditions.

Blank

Lavender's medicinal properties folk medicine have been known since ancient times. Recommendations for collection and harvesting are collected in the Mediterranean, Caucasian herbalists, where the herb is found everywhere. How to harvest lavender correctly?

What to procure... The most valuable thing is lavender flowers. But they can also be used with young stems and leaves.
When and how to collect... Collecting should be started as soon as the inflorescences bloom. Cut off the top of the plant with a knife or scissors. Harvesting can continue all summer long after flowering begins.
How to dry. Dry in the shade naturally. The inflorescences are hung or laid out. After complete drying, the flowers are taken and packaged in a tightly closed container. Dry herb has a pronounced spicy, pleasant aroma.

Raw materials must be protected from dampness. It is better not to store it in linen bags, as the essential oil will quickly evaporate. Storage is allowed for no more than 2 years.

Healing action

Medicinal properties of lavender:

bactericidal;
sedative;
diuretic;
choleretic;
stimulating blood circulation;
calming;
antispasmodic;
carminative;
pain reliever;
regenerating;
antirheumatic;
anthelmintic;
antiseptic.

In chemical composition:

essential oil (60% linoyl acetate);
organic acids (acetic, nylon, valeric, ursolic, butyric);
terpene alcohols (borneol, geraniol, cineole);
tannins;
coumarins;
phytosterols;
tannins;
flavonoids;
bitterness and resin.

Indications for use

Nervous system . The herb relaxes, calms the nervous system, helps with neuroses, melancholy, migraines, normalizes the emotional background and sleep, improves mood. It is a mild sleeping pill that has no side effects when used in moderation. Today, the herb is often prescribed for vegetative dystonia, loss of strength, loss of appetite, heart pain, neuralgia.
urinary system... Lavender has a mild diuretic effect and is good at eliminating puffiness. It is used in the complex therapy of kidney and bladder diseases.
Digestive system... Helps with functional disorders of the digestive system, provoked by nervous excitement. Relieves cramps and colic of the stomach and intestines, helps with bloating, has a mild choleretic effect.
Respiratory system and ENT organs... The herb has bactericidal, antiviral properties. Therefore, essential lavender oil is added to the mixture for the prevention of ARVI and influenza. It is also included in the complex treatment of rhinitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia.
Musculoskeletal system... The plant is used in the treatment of rheumatism, gout and other joint diseases.
Vessels and blood circulation... The herb is used to treat cardiovascular diseases, with paralysis after a stroke. Lavender stimulates blood circulation, especially in the vessels of the brain.
For women . The herb is prescribed in the premenopausal period: relieves irritability, nervousness, anxiety, helps with insomnia. It is also used in the treatment of vaginal inflammation, leucorrhoea. For this, douching and baths are prescribed. The question of taking the herb inside during pregnancy, as well as with breastfeeding... It must be solved individually with the attending physician. The use of lavender in the first trimester is especially dangerous, as it can lead to contraction of the muscles of the uterus and miscarriage.
For kids . Permitted to use only after consulting a doctor! Especially carefully you need to use essential oil. An allergic reaction is possible. Most often prescribed in the form of aromatherapy and healing baths for sleep and digestion disorders, nervous excitement, for the prevention of viral infections, inhalations for respiratory diseases.
External use... Used as an antiseptic and anesthetic. Medicinal baths with lavender are popular. They are taken for joint pain, skin problems, bruises and dislocations, neuralgia. Also used as a rubbing for joint diseases. The herb is also used in dentistry to relieve toothache.

The main contraindications for lavender are individual intolerance and grass allergy. Also, the plant can provoke inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa and uterine bleeding after termination of pregnancy. Simultaneous administration with iodine and iron is not recommended. Lavender enhances the effect of sedatives, sedatives, antispasmodics and can be harmful to the body. This must be taken into account in order to avoid overdose and side effects.

Home use of lavender

What is the home use of lavender? There are recipes for making tea, decoctions, infusions, alcoholic tinctures, lavender oil. The essential oil can be purchased at phyto-pharmacies.

Essential oil

Lavender essential oil is obtained by steam distillation. It is a yellow-green liquid, bitter in taste, with a pleasant lavender aroma. The main production is concentrated in Italy, Bulgaria, Moldova, France and Russia. The healing properties of lavender oil are the same as those of the plant's flowers, but even more pronounced. First of all, the oil is valued by the terpene alcohol linalool, which has a beneficial effect on the nervous and cardiovascular systems, and is valued in cosmetology.

Security measures:

essential oil is not taken orally in its pure form, most often it is diluted in an alcohol solution;
before external use, it is recommended to carry out a test application on a small area of the skin;
you need to choose a certified product made with high quality oil;
due to the toxic properties of the drug, the dosage and course of treatment should not be violated;
exceeding the dose can lead to side effects from the nervous system (dizziness, confusion, drowsiness) and digestion (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea);
oil should be used with great care for allergy sufferers both internally and externally.

What are the uses of lavender essential oil?

Add to therapeutic baths for neuroses, to normalize sleep.
It is widely used in aromatherapy.
Add to ointments for external use for burns, bruises, dislocations, wounds, scratches.
Add to rubbing and warm compresses for inflammation of joints, tissues, nerves.
Lavender oil is especially useful for hair.
Inside take in a strict dosage for nervous excitability, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, urination, joints, heart and blood vessels, inflammation of the respiratory system.
Often, lavender oil is combined with rosemary or marjoram to enhance their effects.

Homemade oil

Lavender oil is an oil extract of dry or fresh herbs. It is better to take olive oil as a base.

Preparation

Take 1 part shredded raw material.
Fill with 5 parts oil.
Insist in a dark place for at least 1 month.
Strain.

Applied externally for all of the above named diseases. Inside used in a diluted form. It is a good pain reliever. It is recommended to mix it with alcohol, use it as a rub for joint, muscle pain. Homemade lavender oil can also be applied to hair.

Tea and infusion

Lavender tea is renowned for its soothing properties. It is recommended to be taken for the prevention of neuroses, depression, with constant stress. It is good to take this drink warm and at night. It is recommended to drink in small sips and slowly.

Making tea

Take 2 tsp. dry raw materials.
Pour a glass of boiling water over.
Cover and leave for 10 minutes.
Strain.

Lavender tea can be sweetened with honey, it helps with colds, promotes rapid relaxation of the nervous system. But in case of digestive disorders, it is recommended to drink unsweetened lavender tea. A glass of tea can be drunk throughout the day, divided into 3 doses.

Preparation of infusion

Take 3 tsp. dry raw materials.
Pour 2 cups boiling water over.
Insist 30 minutes.
Strain.

You can drink ¼ glass 4 times a day. It helps well with headaches, migraines, neuroses, spasms, colic stomach and intestines, indigestion, insomnia. It is also an effective choleretic and diuretic. Such an infusion can be added to baths, make lotions from it, and treat the skin with it.

Alcohol tincture

Alcohol tincture of lavender is less popular than essential oil. However, it also has its advantages. It is recommended to dilute the oil in an alcoholic solution, which reduces toxicity and enhances the sedative effect of the herb.

Preparation

Take 1 part of the herb.
Fill with 5 parts of 40% alcohol.
Insist 1 week.
Strain.

The dosage and course of treatment is prescribed by the doctor. There is a recipe for lavender tincture with 70% alcohol, it is called a "female antidepressant". Healers recommend it for hormonal disorders in women, PMS, hot flashes in the premenopausal period, with nervousness and irritability, mood swings. With these symptoms, it is recommended to combine lavender with motherwort and valerian.

Application in cosmetology

Lavender in cosmetology is one of the most popular herbal remedies. It is often used to flavor cosmetics and perfumes. The herb extract is added to soaps, shampoos, creams, tonics, lotions, masks, gels, perfumes, eau de toilette, and deodorants. Essential lavender oil can be used on its own to enrich shampoo, cream, toner, or face mask.

For hair . The herb is best suited for oily hair. Rinse the head with broths of lavender after washing. Essential oil is recommended for hair loss. It is most often used with other oils - castor and burdock. Add to strengthening hair masks based on nettle and burdock root.
For the skin. The herb has antiseptic and regenerating properties. Helps get rid of acne and pimples, promotes scar-free wound healing, eliminates skin blemishes. In its pure form, lavender oil can only be used for topical acne treatment. You can't wipe your face with them! Lavender is recommended to be mixed with tea tree oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, linseed oil. Useful for oily, problem skin.

Cooking applications

Due to the specific spicy smell, the herb is often used in the alcoholic beverage industry. It is also popular in cooking. It is appreciated and loved by Italians, Spaniards, French. Dry grass is used as a seasoning for soups and salads, sauces, fish dishes. Also used when smoking meat and fish. Often combined with sage, dill and savory. Can be used as a spice and lavender oil, but in a small amount.

Insecticidal agent

Lavender is an effective insecticidal agent against moths, bedbugs, carpet bugs, fleas. The strong smell of grass repels insects. How is it used?

You can use dry lavender, put it in cabinets, or lay its branches on the floor.
You can also drip the essential oil onto a piece of cloth or dish.
Lavender evaporates quickly and needs to be replaced frequently.
It is recommended to make a lavender sachet - a pillow filled with filling, it can also be used to flavor linen and clothes in the closet.
Room disinfection can be beneficial for the nervous system as well.
However, you need to remember about safety measures: excess vapors of essential lavender oil can cause side effects in the form of lethargy and drowsiness.

How else is the herb used?

Lavender is a natural repellent... Helps protect against mosquitoes and mosquitoes in nature and indoors. It is combined with other essential oils - tea tree, cedar, cloves, peppermint. They are mixed in the following proportion: 5 drops of lavender oil and 5 drops of another product. The prepared repellent can be used on children.
In the complex treatment of pediculosis... The most effective oils for lice are lavender, bergamot, geranium, eucalyptus oils. It is best to use a mixture of these oils. They are diluted in base vegetable oil, then rubbed into the scalp and hair, and left under cellophane for several hours.

The main beneficial properties of lavender are sedative, analgesic and bactericidal. The herb is used for diseases of the nervous, digestive, urinary, of cardio-vascular system... Lavender helps relieve pain in neuralgia, rheumatism, gout, dislocations and bruises. The essential oil is often used in aromatherapy, dermatology and cosmetology.

Lavender is a plant that everyone has heard of at least once in their life. It is widely used for medicinal purposes, in cosmetology and the culinary industry. But few people know what the true benefits and harms of lavender are.

What does lavender look like and where does it grow?

The plant can be found in large quantities in India, the Mediterranean countries, and the Canary Islands. The plant was brought to Europe by the ancient Romans. The most famous lavender fields grow in France, in the Provencal regions. But it is grown in other countries as well: in Russia, Ukraine, Italy, Moldova.

If we talk about the regions of Russia, lavender fields can be found in abundance in the Crimea. Bakhchisarai, the vicinity of Sevastopol, Cape Tarkhankut are famous for them.

Lavender is a very beautiful plant with a delicate aroma. It grows in bushes with green stems and flowers at the ends. Despite the apparent fragility from the outside, the roots of the shrubs penetrate deep into the ground. The bushes can reach a height of 60-70 cm.

The leaves of the plant are oblong. The inflorescences are located on the peripheral part of the stem, where the leaves are gone. The color of the flowers ranges from pale blue to purple. The photo below shows how beautiful the lavender fields are.

The chemical composition of lavender

Beneficial features plants are determined by its unique chemical composition. It is rich in, which are contained in all its parts. The largest percentage of oils accumulates in inflorescences - from 0.8 to 1.2%. The main component of the oil is esters of alcohol I-linalol and several acids:

oil;
nylon;
valerian;
acetic.

The benefits of lavender flowers are provided by the presence of elements such as coumarin and ursolic acid in it.

How is lavender useful for the body?

The benefits and harms of lavender for the body have been known since ancient times. Traditional healers have long been used as a sedative... It was used to treat headaches, with a diuretic and choleretic purpose. But the benefits of the plant are not limited to the medical industry. Lavender improves the condition of hair and skin, thanks to which it has become widespread in cosmetology.

Below are just the most pronounced effects of this plant:

diuretic;
pain reliever;
antimicrobial;
hypotensive (lowers blood pressure);
hypolipidemic (reduces the amount of cholesterol and fats in the blood);
hemostatic (stops minor bleeding);
promotes intestinal peristalsis;
calming;
deodorizing (eliminates unpleasant odors).

For women

More than one article can be written about the benefits of lavender for a woman's body. Girls are prone to mood swings nervous breakdowns... Not to take everything to heart, a unique plant will help to endure unfavorable situations. It has a sedative effect, relieves anxiety, and prevents the development of aggression. The plant's benefits for the nervous system are provided by its high content of antioxidants.

More than half of women have had cystitis at least once in their lives. For many, it occurs repeatedly or becomes chronic. Regular intake of infusions or decoctions with lavender will help to heal and prevent relapse.

Since lavender has a pronounced analgesic effect, its benefits are great for women during PMS, menopause. The plant reduces the severity unpleasant symptoms... In addition, the girl becomes less irritable, aggressive.

For men

A strong half of the population is most susceptible to the development of cardiovascular diseases. This is due to a high percentage of the spread of bad habits (alcohol abuse and smoking), high blood cholesterol levels. With a mild course of disease, lavender will help. Its benefits for the heart and blood vessels are undeniable. The plant contains a large amount of antioxidants. They help lower blood pressure, relax the vascular wall. Regular intake of lavender by mouth is an effective prevention of myocardial infarction and stroke.

Medicinal properties of lavender for men with prostatic adenoma or hyperplasia, urethritis are undeniable. The plant has a pronounced diuretic effect. Therefore, lavender tea is recommended for men with urological diseases. Useful plant not only facilitates urination, but also reduces painful sensations, inhibits the inflammatory process.

For kids

Lavender has amazing healing properties when it comes about kids. Its benefits lie in the prevention of insomnia, elimination of digestive disorders. Inhalations with the plant are prescribed for inflammatory diseases. respiratory system, runny nose. Mild colds and respiratory viral diseases are also cured by inhaling lavender vapor.

Important! Before starting any procedures, it is necessary to consult a pediatrician, as complications and allergic reactions may develop.

Can lavender be pregnant and lactating

Pregnant women will also appreciate the benefits of lavender herb. An ointment based on it eliminates stretch marks and tones the skin. It increases its elasticity and nourishes with nutrients.

Pregnant women are allowed to take small amounts of lavender honey. It has a calming effect and improves general condition during colds. Essential oil prevents varicose veins veins, which is why many expectant mothers suffer.

But it is necessary to take lavender orally during pregnancy only according to the testimony of a doctor and in minimum quantities... The plant increases the tone of the smooth muscles of the uterus, which can provoke a miscarriage. Then the harm done will far exceed the benefit. Therefore, before using lavender, a consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist is required!

Traditional medicine recipes based on lavender

As noted earlier, healers have been using lavender essential oils for medicinal purposes for a long time. And now the plant is widely used in folk medicine. Essential oils are used to make a wide variety of dosage forms:

infusion;
tincture;
compress;
syrup;
baths.

Lavender tea

Lavender tea will bring many benefits to people with a busy lifestyle. It will help those who suffer from insomnia, anxiety, and have a tendency to depressive disorders. Hot tea with lavender and honey warms the body, boosts immunity and helps to cope with colds faster.

The benefits and harms of lavender tea are incomparable, and it will not be difficult to prepare it. This will require the flowers of the plant and boiling water. 2 tsp flowers are poured with 500 ml of boiling water. But he shouldn't be cool. On the contrary, the water must cool down to 90 ° C. So that the essential oils do not evaporate and the drink does not lose its useful properties, it is brewed in a teapot with a tight lid.

Attention! The effect of the plant is cumulative, that is, it does not appear immediately.

Tea with oils should be drunk at least 2 times a day for a week to see the first results. To improve the taste and increase the healing effect, add honey, chamomile, mint or lemon balm.

Infusion of lavender for sleep

Infusion of lavender flowers lowers blood pressure, improves memory, blood circulation in the brain, contributing to its more intense activity. But the greatest benefit is shown by lavender infusion in the fight against insomnia. Reception 1 tbsp. l. infusion in the evening will provide a sound, healthy sleep.

An infusion of lavender is prepared similarly to tea. The only difference is that the broth should stand for 20-30 minutes. The vessel must be closed. Add honey if desired.

Lavender tincture

The benefits of lavender tincture with alcohol are good antiseptic properties. Due to the content of ethyl alcohol, it inhibits the reproduction of pathogenic microbes and cleanses the body. The tincture is suitable for external and internal use.

It is prepared as follows:

5 tbsp. l. plant flowers are poured with 500 ml of medical alcohol.
In its absence, you can use strong alcoholic drinks: vodka, moonshine.
The mixture is sealed.
Store in a dark place without direct access. sun rays shaking the container 2 times a day.
Before use, the solution is filtered through a cheesecloth folded several times.

The tincture is drunk in 20-30 drops 2-3 times a day with a glass of water.

Compresses and turundas

The beneficial properties of lavender flowers in warm compresses will be appreciated by patients with rheumatism, arthritis, osteoarthritis and other joint diseases. The plant reduces the severity of the inflammatory process and relieves pain. Cold compresses will benefit people with thermal skin burns, ulcers and purulent inflammation. skin(abscesses, phlegmon).

To prepare a warm compress or turunda, take 5 to 7 drops of undiluted lavender essential oil. And for a cold compress, pure oil will not work. 1 drop should be mixed with 10 drops of another vegetable oil... Healing oil is applied to gauze, which is applied to the affected area. Wrap with foil on top. The procedure is repeated 2-3 times a day until the desired effect is achieved.

Lavender syrup

Healthy syrup is widely used in cooking. It gives the baked goods an amazing aroma and pleasant color. But it is worth noting that lavender flowers do not have a bright pigment, so the color of the syrup will be golden yellow. To achieve a beautiful purple, you need to add a natural lavender-based dye. All the previously listed beneficial properties of the plant are preserved after the preparation of the syrup.

Both dried and fresh flowers are suitable:

Take 7-8 tbsp. l. inflorescences, add them to a mixture of 1 liter of water and 0.5 kg of sugar after heating and complete dissolution of the latter.
Reduce heat and continue cooking for another 10 minutes.
Cover the pan with a lid and let it brew for 60 minutes.
The mixture is filtered and put back on the fire.
Cook until the desired thickness is obtained.
Food coloring can be added at this stage if desired.
The syrup is poured into sealed bottles.
In a dry, dark place, it can be stored for up to 2 years.

Lavender baths

The benefits of a lavender bath lie in its pronounced choleretic, diuretic effects. Therefore, it is effective in the complex therapy of urolithiasis, pyelonephritis (inflammatory lesions of the renal pelvis). Baths also have a calming effect, which is why they are indicated for people with a tendency to depressive and anxiety disorders. The magical properties of lavender are revealed after adding 5-6 drops of pure essential oil to a general bath.

The use of lavender in cosmetology

On the basis of the plant, masks are made for the skin, and its decoctions are used to improve the condition of the hair. The beneficial essential oil contains organic acids that have a rejuvenating effect. Tannins have an anti-inflammatory effect.

For skin and face

Masks from the plant will not harm either oily or dry skin. On the contrary, a face mask made from lavender infusion perfectly softens dry skin.

To prepare it:

Take 2-3 tbsp. l. a mixture of this plant and 1 tbsp. l. starch.
Mix thoroughly.
The mask is kept on the face for 10-15 minutes, rinsing off afterwards with warm water.

Essential oil masks are more suitable for people with oily, problem skin. To prepare a healing mixture, you will need:

2-3 drops of oil;
1 egg yolk;
a couple of drops of tea tree oil.

All ingredients are well mixed and kept on the skin for 10-15 minutes. Wash off with warm water.

Decoction for hair

The benefits of hair masks with lavender will be appreciated by people with problematic scalp, with damaged, brittle hair. The mask stimulates their growth, eliminates dandruff, and makes hair shiny.

Preparing a mask is as easy as shelling pears:

To do this, mix 2-3 drops of lavender oil and 1.5 tbsp. l. any other vegetable oil.
The mixture is rubbed into the scalp with massaging movements.
The head is wrapped in a towel and kept for up to 1 hour.
After that, rinse well with shampoo.

How lavender is used in cooking

Lavender has more than just mass healing properties... It has a very delicate pleasant aroma and beautiful color, which is why it is widely used in cooking. Dried flowers are added to meat dishes, as a decoration and for flavor. They are even added to vinegar.

But it is most widely used as a spice in cooking. Syrup is added to baked goods, sweet dishes, ice cream. Lavender jam is of great benefit. It helps to cope with migraine pains, improves overall well-being and boosts immunity.

Harm of lavender and contraindications

It has already been said about the healing effects of the plant. The health benefits and harms of lavender are incomparable. But there are diseases in which it is not recommended to take it inside.

A pronounced choleretic effect in some cases will bring one harm. Violation of gallbladder motility, blockage of the bile ducts with a stone - drinking any choleretic drugs in these conditions is prohibited. It is not recommended to drink lavender for people with high acidity gastric juice. The essential oils of this spice can provoke an even greater increase and heartburn.

Important! In people who are hypersensitive to lavender, it can lead to an allergic reaction.

The benefits of lavender in an apartment are really great. Everyone knows that it is convenient to store inflorescences in a bag, because they have a calming effect. But essential oils are very volatile. Even when stored in a closet, allergies can occur.

It is necessary to take oil with caution for people with low blood pressure, as it can provoke a state of shock. The patient will develop unpleasant symptoms:

nausea;
dizziness;
fatigue;
the person may faint.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of lavender have been known for centuries. The plant reduces pressure, improves urination, soothes. But it is necessary to be treated with it only in the absence of contraindications and in a reasonable dose. For people with hypotension, gastritis with high acidity, allergies, it will only harm. Lavender should be taken wisely, then it will only benefit.

Nature is rich in medicinal plants used by humans for medicinal purposes. One of these gifts of nature is lavender, medicinal properties which have been known since ancient times. At that time, this plant was used quite often, using it in the treatment of all kinds of infections, applied to ulcers, burns and wounds, taken for cramps, pain in the heart and nervous disorders, as well as for rheumatism, migraine and gout.

Medicinal lavender is a perennial plant. The homeland is considered the Mediterranean, but now it is widespread on all continents. In Russia, it is mainly cultivated in the south, but it is also found to the north. To accustom this plant to a cooler climate, its seeds are "hardened", for which they are placed in the refrigerator for 1.5-2 months before sowing. The plant becomes more resistant to inclement weather and frost.

Chemical elements and their healing properties

Chemical constituents include a large number nutrients that determine the healing properties of lavender.

The composition includes:

essential oil, the base ingredient of which is linalyl acetate (about 60%), which has a sedative effect on the nervous system, heart and blood vessels;
cineole (terpenic alcohol), used in pharmaceuticals for the synthesis of antiseptic and expectorant drugs;
geraniol with a rose scent and borneol with a camphor scent (terpene alcohols) have a high effect in aromatic therapy;
caproic acid relieves inflammation and affects the stop of bleeding;
ursolic acid prevents the development of cancer cells, has a positive effect on reducing obesity and controls blood sugar levels;
valeric acid has a beneficial effect on the heart muscle;
tannins (tannins) help in the treatment of hemorrhoids and diarrhea (in the chemical composition of lavender there are about 12% of them);
coumarins (aromatic substances);
phytosterols control blood cholesterol levels.

The healing effect of this unique representative of the flora has been scientifically confirmed in relation to 167 human ailments, and not so long ago, scientists from the Netherlands identified 23 more elements that make up the chemical composition of lavender.

Medicinal effects of lavender

Since lavender has a wide range of beneficial effects on the human body, its use for medicinal purposes is diverse. Restrictions can be justified by individual intolerance, an allergic reaction to this plant and some other circumstances (for example, pregnancy).

Medicinal uses of lavender:

Stabilization of the nervous system... The relaxing and soothing properties of lavender soothes neuroses, normalizes the emotional background and improves sleep (a very mild hypnotic, which, when taken in small doses, does not give any side effects). The use of this plant also helps with general weakness of the body, loss of appetite, pain in the heart and neuralgia.
Normalization of urination... Lavender is a mild diuretic. Relieves puffiness, is taken with a complex therapeutic effect in the process of treating the bladder and kidneys.
Beneficial effect on digestion... With nervous overexcitation, the digestive system can malfunction. Lavender relieves stomach and intestinal cramps, relieves bloating and is a mild choleretic agent.
Effects on the respiratory organs... The bactericidal and antiviral properties of this plant are used for rhinitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis. A good effect is observed in the treatment of bronchitis and pneumonia. Lavender oil is good for prophylactic to prevent influenza and SARS.
Impact on musculoskeletal system ... When rubbed, lavender oil or tincture of alcohol has a beneficial effect on joints with gout and rheumatic pains, and the broth helps to level muscle cramps.
Influence on the vascular system and blood circulation... Since lavender is a stimulant of blood circulation (including in the vessels of the brain), it has a positive effect on the vascular structure of the body.
Positive impact on female body ... This plant is used in the period preceding menopause. It relieves nervous and irritable states, relieves anxiety and insomnia. By means of douching and baths, inflammation of the reproductive system is treated.
Beneficial effect on the child's body... For children, the use of this plant is limited and is possible only after consulting a pediatrician, since the likelihood of an allergic reaction is high. The main form of use is aroma sessions and therapeutic baths. At the same time, there is a restoration of normal sleep and digestion, a decrease in the excited state. And as a preventive measure, they are used during periods of activation of viral infections. In case of problems with the respiratory system, inhalation is prescribed.

It must be remembered that lavender multiplies the effect on the body of sedatives and antispasmodic drugs, so you need to be careful about the use of this plant in order to exclude overdose and side effects. With individual intolerance and allergies, lavender is contraindicated. The beneficial properties and contraindications are certainly not comparable, but you should be careful about the reaction of your body to this plant.

Traditional methods of application

In folk medicine, lavender is used as follows:

for a good sleep, a small pillow with lavender flowers is placed next to the pillow;
for colds and viral infection lavender oil is used for massage and inhalation, and a runny nose is treated by tamponing the sinuses (15 minutes);

for external grinding, use lavender alcohol, consisting of oil and alcohol in a ratio of 1: 100 (oil to alcohol);
the infusion stabilizes sleep, relieves stress and headaches, lowers the level of the hysterical state (2 tablespoons of flowers per 0.5 liters of boiling water, take 1 tablespoon 4 times a day);
the infusion helps well when applied externally in the form of lotions for the treatment of eczema, bruises and wounds;
in case of indigestion and poor appetite tea is useful (take 2 teaspoons of flowers in a glass of boiling water, leave for 15 minutes, then strain);
with nervous exhaustion and general loss of strength, they take lavender baths (60 g of flowers per 1 liter cold water, bring the mixture to a boil, leave for 15 minutes and strain);
massage with essential oil speeds up blood circulation and stimulates the cardiovascular system;
mix lotions olive oil(base) and lavender oils in a 1 to 10 ratio help in the healing phase of mild burns;
in the treatment of colds and coughs, the agent is taken orally with honey (for 1 teaspoon of honey, take 1 drop of oil, take 2 times a day with tea or in pure form).

Variations in the use of the healing properties of lavender in traditional and modern medicine are extensive, but it is always necessary to remember about the existing contraindications and the correct dosage in the manufacture and use of medicinal preparations based on this plant.

Lavender is a medicinal perennial plant. This mountain herb has a distinct floral aroma and a spicy taste. Even in ancient times, the plant was used as an antibacterial agent, adding to water for washing and washing hands. It is currently used to treat many diseases in folk and traditional medicine.

Due to its taste, lavender is used in cooking, especially in Italian and French cuisine. The spice improves appetite and helps to restore the digestive system.

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Description of the plant

In botany, there are descriptions of about 30 types of lavender. It looks like a branched green dwarf shrub with small leaves, lilac flowers and a fibrous root system. It grows in various areas, most often found in the Mediterranean region. The plant is widespread in Europe, Russia, Ukraine.

Flowering occurs in mid-July. Lavender fields remain in bloom for one month. Then the fruits ripen, after drying, yellow-brown seeds with a shiny surface spill out of them. Harvesting of medicinal raw materials occurs during the flowering period, at this time not only purple inflorescences are cut off, but also stems and leaves.

Chemical composition and therapeutic effect

Thanks to its chemical composition, lavender has a healing effect. Useful components of the plant:

linalool;
cineole;
coumarins;
geraniol;
borneol;
tannins;
resin;
phytosterols;
flavonoids;
bitterness;
vegetable acids.

Medicinal properties:

bactericidal;
sedative;
diuretic;
choleretic;
pain reliever;
stimulating;
carminative;
anthelmintic;
antiseptic;
antirheumatic.