Lavandula angustifolia

Also called English lavender, Lavandula angustifolia, or true lavender, is an aromatic plant known for its floral scent and its traditionally soothing and relaxing properties. It is especially valued to promote relaxation, support sleep and help relieve mild digestive discomfort. Its fragrant flowers can be used in teas, in oils or dried to enjoy their comforting aromas. Its violet-blue spikes, harvested in midsummer, keep their characteristic scent and calming presence for a long time.

As a tea: To ease headaches linked to stress or tension, to promote relaxation and to support digestive comfort.

Harvesting and drying

Harvest the flower spikes early in the morning, as soon as the dew is gone, when the flowers are starting to open (July to August). Pinch or snip gently below the spike to keep a good length of stem.

Gather the stems in small bunches of 5 to 8, without packing them. Hold them with an elastic or string, then hang them upside down in a dry, airy place out of direct light (garage, attic, shed).

Drying takes 2 to 3 weeks depending on the humidity. The flowers are ready when they come off the stem easily. Store them in an airtight jar away from light, for about a year.

Making a tea

English lavender tea

Ingredients

• 1 tsp dried 'Hidcote' lavender flowers
• 250 ml simmering water
• Honey or sugar (optional)

Method

1. Pour the simmering water over the dried flowers in a cup or teapot.
2. Let steep 5 to 7 minutes, covered, to preserve the aromas.
3. Strain out the flowers and pour into your cup.
4. Enjoy warm, in the late afternoon or evening.

Tip: The dried flowers can also naturally scent a relaxation pillow or a sachet tucked between your sheets.

Traditional wellness use. Avoid contact with the eyes. For minor discomforts only: for a large, deep or infected wound, see a health professional. Use only a correctly identified plant that has not received any treatment incompatible with this use.